WSU’s 4 Paws for Ability will host a fundraiser for senior Mallory Holler called Howl-O-Ween. This fundraiser will be held Thursday Oct. 25 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Student Union Atrium. Students and the WSU community can look forward to food, a photo booth, raffles and costume contests for kids.
“Sometimes it fells awkward being the central focus of this fundraiser because I hear people talking about the event so much, both on campus and also on Facebook,” Holler said. “However, I am proud of myself for finally getting so close to one of my long term goals of becoming more independent through the help of a service animal, but I really want the focus to be on the great things 4 Paws is doing for so many people.”
Holler has been working with 4 Paws for Ability in Xenia, OH. She has a rare neurological syndrome called Rosenburg-Chutorian Syndrome, and will benefit from a service dog. She has lost most of her hearing and vision and has become legally deaf-blind. She also requires having a nurse with her at all times.
“4 Paws says the cost to raise and train can be as high as $22,000 for each animal,” Holler said. “The contributions that students make towards this fundraiser, both in terms of time given and dollars donated, will make an amazing difference for many peoples’ lives, including myself. I am so proud to be a part of Wright State where the students care about one another. This group of students and the University are changing our world for the better. I am so excited to be associated with 4 Paws for Abilities because they are so caring and helpful. I hope many people come to the fundraiser."
4 Paws will train a dog to meet Mallory's specific needs. The dog will be trained to open doors, alert Mallory to the doorbell, telephones, fire alarms and when someone says her name.
"I want everyone to remember that this fundraiser is not only being held to help me receive a service dog, it is mainly to support 4 Paws for Abilities as they continue their mission of helping many people like me improve independence and the quality of life," Holler said. "I am so excited for the possibilities I see ahead. There are many things I am hoping we can train the dog to help me do. Knowing how many people 4 Paws wants to help, it is important to show our support towards them."
If you aren't able to attend but would like to donate please go to 4Pawsforabilitiy.org/donate-now and include in the instruction box that you are donating to Mallory Holler via the Wright State University Fundraiser.
