Ellie May Hodges was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 2 years old. Thankfully she has lots of support to manager her condition, especially from her best friend, Lilly – a seven-month-old Golden Labrador.
Ellie, 8, lives in Holywell in Flintshire. Lilly has made an enormous difference to Ellie’s life since joining the family in March.
“Lilly makes her feel safe”
Ellie's mum, Georgina, said, “Life with Type 1 diabetes can be tough and Ellie does struggle sometimes. She is a very strong and determined young lady but sometimes feels upset and different from other children. We always reassure her that there are lots of other families that have children with Type 1 and she is not alone.”
Type 1 diabetes can have an impact on your emotional as well as your physical health. Ellie’s mum, Georgina, thought having Lilly to care for and play with might help.
Georgina continued, “Ellie’s confidence has grown so much since having Lilly. Lilly is someone that Ellie can talk to without judgement and makes her feel safe. We can’t imagine life without Lilly now.”
Special puppy training
Lilly will soon start training as a Medical Detection Dog, to help Ellie even further.
Georgina continued, “Managing blood sugar levels during the night is a big worry for myself and for Ellie. The training will teach Lilly to wake Ellie when her blood sugars are too low or high, helping Ellie rest and sleep better. It will bring so much relief to the whole family, knowing someone is there to watch over her.”
Fundraising dog show
The family are organising a fundraising dog show on Saturday 14 September at Rhys-Y-Cae show fields, where you can show off your own four-legged friends!
The categories will include Cutest Puppy, Best Rescue Dog, Best Family Dog and a Fancy Dress competition, and will be judged by professional dog trainer Michelle Lowe of In Charge Training.
The event costs £2 to enter and starts at 10.00am. For more information, contact Georgina on 07726 599252.
