Rachel and Grant Woolley are raising funds to purchase an autism assistance dog worth $29,000 for their twin sons Jake and Cooper. 22893
By Kelly Yates
Rachel Woolley’s autistic sons, Jake and Cooper, have been assessed as having a moderate to severe intellectual disability.
The mother of four, who also has an eight-month-old daughter Amber and two-year-old son Dylan, said her four-year-old autistic sons were the most gentle, beautiful, loving little boys.
Mrs Woolley said that day-to-day life for the family with Jake and Cooper was very difficult and emotionally draining, as they needed constant supervision.
She said the assistance dog would be a life saver for her family.
“I often feel like a prisoner in my own home as I have to lock all of the doors,” she said.
“The boys try and run away on a daily basis, so the dog would be an extra pair of eyes for us.”
The autistic assistance dogs are from Righteous Pups Australia and are trained in search and rescue.
The not-for-profit organisation has a mission to raise, socialise and train the dogs to do a variety of practical tasks for children with autism and their families.
The family will be holding a children’s fund-raising event at Hallam Valley Primary School on Saturday 15 November and will feature a live performance from the Kazoos, face painting and a sausage sizzle.
Mrs Woolley is seeking local businesses to get on board by donating raffles prizes for the fund-raising event.
She said with the help of the dog the twins would find a companion, a best friend and a helper to the family.
Donations can be made to Righteous Pups Australia or by calling Rachel Woolley on 0400 944 208.
