When my husband and I welcomed our son, Jake into tje world , we knew he was the love of our lives. As we watched our son grow, we soon realised our boy was different. He played with toys differently,interacted differently, evertything was different.Sounds, smells, tastes and lights over stimulated him. Routine was crucial, and any changes however small would send Jake into meltdown mode. When Jake’s teacher at the time Miss Bellis raised her concerns, I felt relieved, as I thought at times I was going mad. A few months later Jake had a diagnosis of Autism, Sensory processing disorder,CCD and Anxiety...... Flash forward another ten years and our boy isnt living his best life. The outside world is a scary place for Jake, he rarely leaves home (his safe place) has no friends or social life. These past two years have been incredibly hard for Jake. He attended a school specialising in Autism, which hasnt worked out for him. He was referred to Medical tuition school which again could not meet his needs. The professionals then recommended for Jake to be home schooled. Music plays a big part in his life, he has self taught himself to play the piano,. when he starts a specialist college in September, music is what Jake will be focusing on. We are desperate for Jake to live a more independent and happy life...... what better way is there than a ‘Mans best friend’ As if it was meant to be I bumped into two dogs in training in our local pets at home. Bales buddies have become our new family. They will offer a training programme tailor made to meet Jakes needs. This training will be twice weekly for two years. This portugese water dog will meet Jake’s emotional needs, reduce anxiety, give him a focus and responsibility in his life. And offer him companionship, and create a very special uncoditional loving bond. The overall cost is £6000, but our aim is to try and raise £3000 to help cover the trainng costs for the nest two years. Jake’s dad is a keen cyclist, and on Friday July 10th is embarking on a 225 mile bike ride from London to Torquay. Any donations would be the biggest gift of all in trying to give our son the best chance to live his best life. The bond between man and dog is so close their hearts actually beat in sync ❤️ Thank you for readiing Jake’s story.