On February 14, 2001, Isabella Marie and Alannah Grace Wilson made an unexpected entrance into this world. Weighing in at only 1lb, 14 oz and 12 1/2 inches long and 1 lb, 6 oz and 11 inches long, we were told these two precious baby girls may not live through the night.

Born at 26 weeks, both girls suffered brain hemorrhages. We were told Alannah may have mild cerebral palsy and that Isabella had multiple grade 4 hemorrhages and would never be able to walk, talk, or even know who we were. Both girls were also diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, classic galactosemia, which will restrict their diet for life and can cause premature ovarian failure, tremors, speech difficulties, learning disabilities, and gross and fine motor problems. Later, Isabella was also diagnosed with ADD.

After almost 100 days in the neonatal intensive care unit, we finally were able to take our daughters home. With much prayer and a lot of love and help from family, our church, friends, and the medical community, both girls exceeded all of the doctors' expectations. Isabella and Alannah have been through more in their short lives than most people will endure in a lifetime. They have been through and continue with shots, tests, therapy (LOTS of therapy), surgery, and many doctor's appointments.

Everyone who meets Alannah and Isabella are infected with their joy, love for God, and strong will to overcome any challenge put before them. They love going to church, school, and hanging out with their friends/family. They endure so many challenges throughout their day that most of us take for granted (getting dressed, bathroom, showering, walking, and so many more) and even though there are times they are frustrated, the majority of the time they attempt all of these things with a smile.

Ever since both girls were toddlers, we have strived to make them as independent as possible. As they grow older and are (quickly) approaching their teenage years, they want to do more things independently. Right now, they must rely on other people to help them with certain tasks, such as carrying things, picking things up, opening doors, turning on/off light switches, and helping them maintain balance when walking/standing.

And this is where both girls having service dogs woud help them to reach their goal of independence. Isabella and Alannah have big dreams of going to college and living independently. Having service dogs now would help make those dreams possible later. continue to open up more opportunities for their future.  Alannah and Isabella are only limited by the limits of the environment and those others may put on them. Service dogs would help remove those limits for the girls!

Because Isabella and Alannah have different  needs and activities, it would not be possible to "share" a service dog.  That is why we are helping 4 Paws for Ability raise enough money to train 2 dogs.  $23,000 seems overwhelming but I know with the love and support of so many who know and love our girls, we can and will accomplish this goal.  And in Bella's words, "God will provide our dogs to us in His timing Mommy!"