My name is Sara and I have been a type 1 diabetic for almost 30 years. About seven years ago I lost my ability to feel when low or high blood sugar levels were coming. Therefore, I no longer have any symptoms to treat them proactively. I also have times when my blood sugar crashes to a dangerously low level in minutes. Type 1 diabetes requires discipline and a daily management plan. It is an auto-immune disease for which there is no cure.

After trying multiple different technologies and medications (besides insulin), I was at a loss for what I could do. I then heard about diabetic alert dogs and started my research.

My research ultimately lead to getting my own diabetic alert dog about six years ago. But first I had to come up with $25,000. That was overwhelming and scary to think about. Through the amazing generosity of others, I made my goal in eight months and was able to get my current service dog, Snook.

Snook is my life-saver! He has not only alerted me to my blood sugars, but also is my companion. Living alone is hard and lonely at times but he loves me unconditionally and is always there!