When Caroline came to visit ECAD in Torrington, CT, she met several Service Dogs-in-training and
she knew immediately that a Service Dog will help her gain back her independence.

                                Meet ECAD Client Caroline Lloyd

My name is Caroline Lloyd. In 2015 I was diagnosed with POTS, Neurocardiogenic Syncope, and Hypermobility Type Ehler’s Danlos. These disorders cause a multitude of other problems including chronic fatigue and fainting, which forced me to take a Medical Leave for the Spring Semester of my Freshman year of college. My health declined so much that I wasn’t able to be the kind of student I wanted to be, and that wasn’t fair to me or my professors.

Having a Service Dog to respond and even alert to my fainting will give both me and my family and doctors an extra sense of security. The dog will also give me a sense of independence I haven’t had in a while, as being alone as someone who faints can be very dangerous.

Beyond the fainting, I suffer from chronic widespread pain and joint hypermobility that limits my movements most days. I use braces and a cane to help with mobility, and having a Service Dog that will retrieve dropped items, provide support while moving about, administer Deep Pressure Therapy, and even help when I’ve fallen will make a world of difference.

Having a service dog will mean more support, safety, and independence for me in college as I learn to manage my difficult disabilities without the presence of my parents.

Thank you for your generous gifts to ECAD in honor of Caroline Lloyd.