Four years ago, my daughter, Lily, was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition called autoimmune encephalitis (AE). Instead of producing antibodies to combat illness, her body mistakenly attacks her own brain, leading to devastating symptoms. Doctors have described it as akin to “her brain on fire,” a fittingly cruel metaphor for her daily struggles. She has endured countless seizures, has become reliant on a feeding tube for sustenance, and often faces challenges in walking and speaking. Yet, through it all, she continues to smile. Although there is no cure for her condition, her symptoms are managed with a complex regimen of medications, chemotherapy, and blood infusions.
Time and again, I have implored the universe for a reprieve, pleading with every higher power for change. However, none of my efforts could alter her reality. Then, in December 2018, I received an email revealing that two kind-hearted donors were willing to fully fund a service dog for her. On Christmas morning, we shared this life-altering news with Lily, and from that moment, I could see a glimmer of hope in her eyes.
In early 2019, Lily was introduced to profiles of two potential service dogs. After carefully considering both options, she tearfully declared, “That’s my Bella.” From that day forward, their connection was undeniable. Bella had a lot to learn before coming home; it wasn’t just about mastering commands like “sit” and “stay,” but also understanding how to behave in public. Training a service dog is a meticulous process, and Lily kept her bond with Bella alive through FaceTime calls, care packages, and letters. They finally met in person a year later, in January.
Their connection was immediate. Bella recognized that Lily was her person, and Lily understood that Bella was the companion she had always longed for. They spent just 24 hours together, yet it felt as if they had known each other forever. Bella dutifully alerted Lily to her seizures while Lily showered her with affection. Despite the chaos of the world around them, they were completely in sync with one another. The farewell at the end of their brief visit was heart-wrenching, but the hope generated by their bond made it worthwhile.
By spring, Lily’s health took a turn for the worse. At just 13 years old, she weighed a mere 57 pounds, with a dangerously low heart rate and poor liver and thyroid function. Life was sustained through a feeding tube, but its quality was severely compromised. Lily had fought valiantly, but her body seemed ready to give up. The prognosis was grim.
Then, Bella came home.
Bella brought joy, motivation, and a newfound purpose into Lily’s life. Just by being near her, Bella inspired Lily to push herself. Lily strived to communicate clearly so Bella could understand her. Even on days when her muscles ached, she refused to give in to her wheelchair. Instead, she used it only when necessary and committed herself to physical therapy, knowing Bella depended on her. Despite the pain, she persevered, motivated by the bond they shared. With each day, she grew a little stronger.
While Lily’s seizures didn’t stop entirely, they became less debilitating. Most of the time, Bella could sense the onset of seizures, allowing Lily to move to a safe place and reducing the impact of the episodes. When Bella couldn’t alert Lily in time, she would get help, shortening the duration of the seizures and improving recovery. Perhaps most importantly, Bella’s presence has boosted Lily’s confidence, empowering her to engage in activities independently.
Today, Lily is twice the size she was last March. Her body and mind are stronger, and her will is unrecognizable. Bella has given her a renewed lease on life. Together, they set goals that once seemed unattainable, and they’re achieving them. Lily, who was once told she may never read again, is now an honor roll student, and she and Bella have co-founded an Etsy shop, becoming budding philanthropists with their earnings.
Bella may not have granted Lily eternity, but she has certainly made the time they have together meaningful.
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Summary:
This article shares the inspiring journey of Lily, a girl battling autoimmune encephalitis, and how her service dog, Bella, has transformed her life. With Bella’s support, Lily has regained strength and confidence, enabling her to achieve goals that once seemed impossible. Their bond illustrates the profound impact a service dog can have on a child facing chronic illness.