Joy Alona is an extraordinary individual whose life story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering hope. She navigates the world with grace and a contagious spirit despite facing tremendous challenges as a person with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS).

FAS is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects both the brain and body, presenting complex physical, cognitive, and emotional obstacles for those living with it. However, Joy refuses to be defined by her diagnosis. She has chosen instead to embrace her inner strength and demonstrate that there is so much more to her than the traumas and difficulties she has faced.

Throughout her life, Joy has also weathered the storm of exploitation and child abuse, a painful and challenging journey that has demanded incredible resilience and determination. Yet, in the face of adversity, she has emerged as a beacon of light, proving that love, kindness, and the human spirit can endure even the darkest of circumstances.

What truly sets Joy apart is her unwavering kindness, creative spirit, and deep love for nature. Despite the challenges she faces, she remains an embodiment of compassion, bringing joy to those around her and reminding us all of what it means to be truly human.

For more than six years, Joy has harbored a beautiful dream—a dream of having a service dog to accompany her on her life's journey. And recently, her prayers were answered in the most incredible way. Joy has been partnered with a service dog in training named Libby.

The bond between Joy and Libby is far more than a mere partnership. It is a profound connection that provides Joy with the support she needs to live life to its fullest. Libby's role as an assistance dog will be multifaceted, encompassing various crucial tasks that aim to enhance Joy's well-being and independence.

Libby's role will be to assist Joy with medication reminders, ensuring that she stays on track with her prescribed treatments. Additionally, she will offer proprioceptive input, lending a helping paw when Joy needs balance, depth perception, and stress reduction. In both the safety of their home and the bustling public spaces they explore together, Libby is on her way to bringing peace of mind and security to Joy.

But Libby is already much more than just an assistance dog in training. She is a loyal and loving companion, a friend who provides unconditional support and companionship to Joy. Together, Joy and Libby have embarked on an extraordinary journey toward overcoming obstacles and emanating love and positivity in everything they do.

Your support and encouragement play a significant role in this partnership. By being a part of Joy and Libby's team, you are contributing to their incredible story of triumph over adversity. Your generosity and compassion are invaluable as Joy continues to follow her dreams, guided by the unbreakable bond she shares with her beloved service dog in training.

With every step forward, Joy and Libby inspire those around them to believe in the power of resilience, hope, and the immense capacity of the human spirit. Their story serves as a constant reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, we are capable of finding joy, wonder, and kindness in every moment.

Joy and Libby at UTS

Joy & Libby

By Sunrise Service Dogs

Joy & Libby

Team Members