My Nonprofit Reviews

North Star, led by Patty Dobbs Gross has been one of the strongest foundations in our quixotic journey on the autism spectrum. Our first North Star dog recently passed and served us joyfully for 16 years. He was not one of North Star's goldens because our child was an extreme flight danger and we requested a Border Collie instead. Patty happily accommodated our special needs and orchestrated every detail of his training, and even counseled my shaky confidence as the primary handler for my son. Tyler came to us fully trained and ready to learn as we navigated our shaky ship. His intelligence and adaptability was truly amazing! What a gift.
We are now part of the training team for our second North Star placement. We requested another Border Collie but ended up with an Australian shepherd, because of a serendipitous encounter Patty had with a new breeder. I was somewhat disappointed but I trust Patty and knew this breed also has a strong work ethic and very intelligent makeup, so we chose the path of discovery. So far this 8 month old pup is a quick study and melting hearts everywhere we go.
Our walk on the spectrum continues to be laden with difficulty daily. Our son continues to be nonverbal and in need of 1:1 care at all times. With Tyler and now Bella this trying daily challenge is sprinkled with fairy dust. Magical moments appear, heart felt connections are made and impossible challenges are navigated. I can't possibly thank Patty enough.
Disappointing outcomes have been plentiful in the 18 years of our life with Autism, from the many doctors that took our money and offered treatment towards a cure that often caused more harm than good, to the unprofessional teachers who mislead us and used methods that were expressly prohibited in our IEP, and other arrogant expressions of judgment on a clearly vulnerable family. If I was inclined to hold resentments I would need several layers with lots of pockets to handle them all. Fortunately I don't have the time or energy for that, and I have learned along the way that happiness is a choice and is much like that spoon full of sugar to help us through our daily medicine. Tyler was a great model of a happy soul and loved his job so much that he inspired me to follow suit. It's my greatest joy when I hear my son laugh and hear others marvel at his ease and comfort, noticing that he seems very happy in his own skin. That has always been our number one goal and the sacred ground that would not be sacrificed.
Patty has always been my sister in this regard, reminding me of the possibility of grace and beauty along the way. I'm amazed at how much she juggles and how many families she serves, and continue to fundraise for her because I don't think she charges enough for what she does. Luckily for her and me, our amazing dogs make so many friends and neighbors love them, that generosity and charity are commonplace. My sincere thanks and gratitude to North Star for Tyler, one of my greatest loves, and now Bella my wee cherub in training.