By Staci DaSilva
sdasilva@kcautv.com
Nothing about Keegan Gosch's life has been traditional. He joined the Gosch family as a foster child when he was just 16 days old.
But his parents, Suzie and Kevin, knew pretty quickly that he would be a permanent part of the family.
And his disability, just a special part of him.
Suzie Gosch said, "We knew Keegan was special needs at birth, we did not know that it would turn out to be Autism. I didn't even know what Autism was five years ago."
But a lot has changed since he was adopted.
"You can pretty much guarantee, every time we leave the home, there's going to be some kind of disruption in his behavior," said Gosch.
While he's only 5 years old, Suzie says controlling her son during a meltdown has proved to be nearly impossible.
So, the Goschs' think a service dog will help them physically manage his fits and help his social skills.
Gosch said, "Keegan will have something that he is responsible for. When we're out in public, people are going to ask and we're going to guide to have him tell about his dog."
In fact, there's a dog being trained right now just for Keegan. But, Scout costs $14,000.
And that's a big challenge, considering the family was forced to rebuild their home after the Mapleton tornado last year.
Amazingly, they have half the money raised and Keegan's mom says nothing will stand in the way of what her son needs.
"You are your child's biggest advocate. If you don't speak up, or if you don't seek it, it's not going to come to you."
If you'd like to donate to the Gosch's efforts, they're holding an Autism Awareness benefit this Sunday starting at 11am at the Mapleton Community Center.
If you can't make it to the event, you can mail a donation in Keegan Gosch's name to FSB Plus Bank at 414 Main St., Mapleton, IA 51034 or visit compassionatepaws.org for more information.
