Update on Logan's Service Dog...

May 2010 - 4Paws is presently training 3 or 4 dogs with Logan in mind. In August they will whittle the selection down to a single dog --one dog who has been doing the best for Logan's needs -- and they will focus on that one dog. Logan and his familyplan to go down to Ohio in September to meet their new dog. We will update you soon.
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March 2010 - It just is amazing to me that this thing snowballed and evolved and they raised the money so quickly," Loagn's mom, Donna said. " It means a lot to us, it means so much to us what they're doing -- it's going to really affect our lives." And on a day to say thanks, it's Logan's dad who says it best. "Not only are they the best mushers in the world, but some of them have the biggest hearts, and that's encouraging to see," Jeff said. After Logan gets his new guide dog, he'll have to spend a few weeks in training as the dog gets used to him.
Read the full story by KTUU

Its all about Love ...

DeeDee & "Mr. Miyagi"

Be part of 4 paws for Logan!

• Bid on Auction Items - click here
  
  
• Be a 2010 Idita-rider, it's not too late!
  Mitch Seavy and his sponsors are bidding the opportunity to ride in the Seavey's sled at the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. For more information go to: http://www.iditarodauction.com/

You can be the key to opening a doorway for an autistic young boy from the Village of Unalakleet.

We need your help to to get a service dog for Logan Erickson. Logan is a nine year old boy diagnosed with Autism. Jeff and Donna, his mother and father, have five boys and Logan is the youngest member of the family. This fall 2009, Iditarod musher, DeeDee Jonrowe was visiting Unalakleet, his home, presenting for their church camp. She brought with her a dog named "Mr. Miyagi". Logan watched him with interest. Logan until this day had not spoken one word.

After DeeDee left on the airplane Logan walked around the air station, where his mother works for Bearing Air and said, "Miyagi" several times. At first his mother did not recognize what he was saying but then she made the connection.
This was an emotional breakthrough. Logan first word was a name of a loving dog. Jeff Erickson has shared that since then in a time of crisis Logan has said, “Mom.” Logan also has numerous problems sleeping and still wanders away at times. These are problems service dogs can solve with warmth and affection. A service dog will give Logan the motivation to communicate and provide him with independence.

The cost of an assistance dog through the 4paws for Ability is $13,500. That is extremely hard for a family of 7 in Unalakleet, a village of 800, to raise by themselves. The Erickson's Family has chosen to receive their dog and training from 4paws for Ability. 4 Paws for Ability has successfully placed over 500 dogs to children with disabilities.

Knowing our joint love for dogs, we have tremendous faith that this year's Iditarod is a perfect vehicle and match to help raise the money Logan needs to pay for his dog and training. We welcome your help and participation. We are planning on having an auction. We will offer items at the Iditarod banquets and on line and take the highest bidder. Stay tuned for amazing auction items you won't want to miss!

Learn more about autism. Visit "Autism Speaks" web site - click here.

Mushers are joining in gathering pledges per mile read more....