Diabetes Alert Dog helps local family

FRANKFORT, Ind. (WLFI) - It was back in 2011 when 11-year-old Sierra Disinger was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. For the last 2 years, it's been a 24/7 commitment.

"She has to check her (blood) sugar breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and then, two hours after each, and then of course, anytime she has a problem throughout the day,she has to check it," said Sierra's mother, Anna Disinger. "So, normally, she has to checks 8 to 12 times a day."

Anna said she also wakes up at least three times a night to check on Sierra.

Yet, that all changed when Anna saw a posting on Facebook for Diabetes Alert Dogs. As soon as she saw the posting, she knew what she had to do.

"I said, and where do you get one of those,"said Anna.

Eight months later, the family welcomed 5-month-old Nevaeh into their home.

Anna said Nevaeh is trained to warn Sierra when her blood sugar gets too low, or too high.

Nevaeh uses natural alerts, like yawning, licking, and sometimes, she'll even get a runny nose.

In fact, mid-way through our interview, Nevaeh began to sense something wasn't right with Sierra. Sierra immediately checked her blood sugar, and it turns out, Nevaeh was right.

Sierra's blood sugar tested at 220, when it should be between 80 and 200.

Anna said once Sierra checks her sugar, Nevaeh's runny nose will immediately disappear.

Anna said Nevaeh will also alert her overnight if Sierra's blood sugar changes while she's asleep. With further training, Nevaeh will eventually be able to retrieve Sierra's meter and treatments, and even be able to dial 911.

Anna said while diabetes alert dogs can cost around $20,000, it's a price she said can never truly be repaid.

"If Nevaeh saves her life one time, that is well worth it," said Anna. "You can't put a price on your kids. You can't."

Anna said they have done fundraising activities throughout the year, and have raised about $13,000 to help pay for Nevaeh.

She said they will continue their fundraising efforts this year as well.

If you'd like to help the Disinger family pay for Nevaeh, you can do so online here . Once on the site, click on "donate" at the top of the screen, and then enter "Disinger Family," to direct your deposit.