My Story

My Challenge

Hi, I'm Marisa

I am doing something pawsome this May. I am taking part in a challenge to raise vital funds for Pets As Therapy (PAT for short).

This May, I’m aiming to get into my wheelchair once a day and complete a small lap around the hospital. It’s something I find really difficult physically mentally and emotionally, but doing it for a reason for Kimmy, for myself, and for others who need support like this makes it feel possible, and like a win-win for everyone.

If this can help more people experience the comfort and support of therapy animals, then every small lap will be worth it.

Adapted to Me

Although the app shows 100km, I’ve adapted this challenge to 31 laps one lap a day throughout May so I can take part safely from hospital Each lap will be tracked as roughly 3.2km on the app (even though it isn’t actually that far), meaning my 31 laps will add up to the full 100km challenge

My Story with Kimmy 🐾

I’ve been an inpatient in a general hospital for around a year. I have complex medical needs, and I’m also autistic. Over time, my health has deteriorated significantly, and I am now close to being bed bound.

Hospital can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming. It’s a place where almost everything changes staff rotate, wards change, routines shift. That unpredictability can be really hard.

But one of the most important supports throughout my hospital journey has been Kimmy, a Pets As Therapy dog.

Kimmy has been a constant in a place where very little stays the same. For me, that consistency has meant more than I can really explain. Seeing her, knowing what to expect, and having something familiar has helped me feel grounded and safe in an environment that often feels unpredictable.

She has also supported me during seizures on multiple occasions. She seems to naturally sense when something is wrong and stays close calm, focused, and present. Her presence during and after seizures has helped regulate my nervous system, reduce fear, and bring comfort when my body and brain feel out of control. She didn’t need training, cues, or instructions she just knew.

Beyond the medical side, Kimmy has helped me emotionally. She’s been there on some of my hardest days when I’ve felt scared, exhausted, and overwhelmed. Sitting with her, stroking her, or even just being near her has helped reduce anxiety, ease sensory overload, and remind me that I’m not alone.

Kimmy hasn’t just been a nice extra during my admission she’s been a source of safety, regulation, and consistency.

What Donations Will Go Towards

Every donation I receive will help the charity recruit more pet owners as volunteers, who can then share the love of their dog or cat with others.

About Pets As Therapy 🐾

Pets As Therapy volunteers, along with their dogs and cats, visit hospitals, care homes, and schools across the UK every day. They provide comfort and companionship to people of all ages, helping to mend hearts, lift spirits, and bring hope.

Pets As Therapy is a UK-wide charity with over 6,000 volunteers who visit places such as hospitals, schools, and care homes with their pets.

PAT teams bring joy, comfort, and be companionship to people of all ages, helping to improve wellbeing and mental health. They also support children with reading PAT pets are great listeners.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, or supporting 💙

from Marisa (helped by mum)