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Every parent dreams of seeing their child happy, thriving, and safe. For Karli and Daryl, those dreams come with extraordinary challenges as they care for their incredible seven-year-old son, Zakkary. Living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and drug-resistant epilepsy, Zakkary’s life requires constant attention and care. Yet, his resilience and boundless love inspire everyone who knows him. On his 7th birthday, family friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to help make life-changing support a reality for Zakkary, a service dog from Aspen Service Dogs.
A Life Of Challenges
Zakkary is a sweet, intelligent boy who finds joy in lining up Fisher-Price figures, jumping on his trampoline, and spending time with his younger brother, Parker. But his daily life is far from typical. Due to his condition, Zakkary sleeps 15-20 hours a day and takes four anticonvulsant medications twice daily, alongside various supplements. Sensory challenges make even simple activities, like eating or attending school, difficult. His modified school program allows him to attend for only a couple of hours a day, four days a week, a schedule that still leaves him exhausted.
Zakkary’s epilepsy diagnosis at age five added another layer of complexity. The condition puts him at high risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), a constant source of worry for his family. Despite the challenges, Zakkary’s spirit shines brightly. “He’s our hero,” says Karli. “His strength gives us hope every day.”
The Hope Of A Service Dog
After a lengthy application process, Zakkary’s family was approved to receive a specially trained Labrador Retriever from Aspen Service Dogs. This dog will be much more than a pet; it will be a lifeline. Trained to provide both Autism and medical response support, the dog will:
- Calm Zakkary during moments of agitation.
- Assist with sensory regulation and reduce anxiety.
- Alert during seizures and help him recover afterward.
- Provide companionship and safety, preventing bolting or self-harming behaviors.
“This dog will bring us peace of mind,” says Daryl. “Knowing there’s an extra set of ‘hands’ to keep Zakkary safe is invaluable.”
Why Aspen Service Dogs?
The journey to finding the right service dog began with a chance meeting at a mall. “We met a woman with her service dog, and after speaking with her, we learned about Aspen,” Karli recalls. Following an interview with the organization’s owners, the family knew Aspen was the perfect choice.
Aspen Service Dogs is one of the few organizations in Alberta, Canada that are qualified to train service dogs to meet government standards. Their rigorous two-year training program ensures that each dog is prepared to meet the unique needs of its handler. For Zakkary, this means not only safety and companionship but also opportunities for greater independence and social connection.
A Long Road Ahead
The family’s journey with Aspen began in December 2023. Over the next two years, they will participate in a series of training sessions to ensure the dog integrates seamlessly into their lives. First, the dog will bond with Karli and Daryl during a week-long training in Edmonton. Later, the family will host the trainer and dog at home to ensure Zakkary feels comfortable and safe. By the end of 2025 or early 2026, Zakkary will meet his new best friend.
A Gift Of Independence & Safety
The estimated cost for the service dog and related expenses is $40,000. This includes training tailored to Zakkary’s autism and epilepsy needs, family training sessions, and ongoing costs like insurance, vet visits, and food. “While the financial burden is significant, the benefits far outweigh the cost,” says Daryl. “This dog will be a source of love, happiness, and safety for Zakkary.”
How You Can Help
Consider contributing to their GoFundMe campaign, which aims to raise $40,000. Your support will not only help fund the service dog but also provide Zakkary with the tools he needs to live a safer, fuller life.
As Karli says, “It’s hard to predict the future, but we’re hopeful. This dog will bring companionship, independence, self-confidence, and social connections—not just for Zakkary but for our entire family.”
Together, we can help Zakkary take this life-changing step. Visit their GoFundMe to donate and share Zakkary’s story with your friends and family. Let’s give Zakkary the gift of a brighter, safer future.
