Ione, 18 years old, VA | 1 DAY WAITING

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Ione’s mornings begin with saying good morning to her dog, Waffles, who answers with a thump of his tail. Then she greets her two hamsters, Salt and Pepper, who peek out of their tunnels and wiggle their whiskers. Only when she knows everyone is accounted for and happy does she start her own day. Ione is autistic, and she thrives on routine, predictability, and quiet. Loud places and sudden changes can exhaust her, and making conversation with new people takes a great deal of energy. She entered foster care as a girl and moved through several homes, each one requiring her to learn a new set of rules, sounds, and schedules. It was hard, and it left her wary of people. Animals are different. They don’t ask her to read between the lines. They love her exactly as she is, and they have been her steadiest family through years of change. Ione is learning to live more independently, and it isn’t easy. She worries about work, money, and whether anyone will understand her. But she is gentle, unexpectedly funny, and fiercely devoted to the animals who depend on her. She hopes to work with animals someday, perhaps in a kennel or a vet clinic, where her patience and care can shine.

Waffles is Ione’s anchor, and every walk, trick, and cuddle is part of the routine that keeps her grounded. Ione already has a first wish for treat rewards, and this wish would add a new treat to the routine. Waffles has been through the same few treats again and again, and a little variety would keep training fresh and exciting for him, with something new to look forward to each time he does a trick well. On a tight budget, even small extras like treats can feel out of reach, and Ione always puts her animals first. These treats would give her another way to thank the one who has never left her side.