When Lori visited ECAD and met several of the Service Dogs-in-Training, she knew

 immediately that an ECAD Service Dog will help her increase her independence and quality of life. 

Meet ECAD Client Lori Silverman

 My name is Lori Silverman and I am a single mom to my teenage daughter, Chloe. We live in New Jersey near the beach. Chloe and I enjoy cooking, baking, making soap and walking on the beach together.  However, because of two serious head-on car accidents over the course of 17 years, these pleasurable activities have become challenging.  

Due to the first accident, I developed Syringomyelia Chiari Malformation.  This disorder causes severe migraines, pain, muscle weakness, sensitivity loss to hot and cold, numbness in limbs, fatigue, short-term memory problems, anxiety, vision problems, trouble walking and many other symptoms.  Unfortunately, even after many surgeries, I am still getting worse.  But, I still have hope that one day, a miracle might happen! 

Some days are worse than others, as some days I can't leave the house.  Having an ECAD Service Dog by my side will steady me when I am having trouble walking and will assist me when my legs aren't strong enough to help me get up from a chair.  This highly trained dog will assist me by picking up things that I drop and will help me when I fall or alert someone to help me.  In addition, my service dog will lay next to my legs to help keep me warm as I'm always cold and be a great comfort and companion to me. 

I am a fighter and I fight to walk every day.  I will not give up – not for myself, nor for Chloe.   The dog will be a blessing and your gift to ECAD to help me and other people with disabilities will be a blessing!  Thank you for your inspiration and support.

Thank you for your generous gifts to ECAD in honor of Lori Silverman.