Ms Sinéad Dutton:

We have had Oscar for four years. Before we had him, we could not go to Dundrum and today, my son is in the Oireachtas. He has just stepped outside to go to the bathroom. We travel on the Luas and visit public places. He asked for a coffee outside earlier. We were in Buswells Hotel this morning. It has really changed our lives. It is amazing. We bring Oscar everywhere. He comes on holiday with us. He goes on trips to Tesco with us. He is everywhere. He has had a huge impact on all our lives, particularly on Oisín but also on the older sibling who is 15 and who can now go to the cinema. Before that, we had to say that we could not go because it was too noisy, the lights went down, it was dark and Oisín would not be happy having people around. Now if he is unsure, you will see him. His hand will drop down and he will gently stroke Oscar. Before we had Oscar, I remember an incident in a crowded elevator where people would bunch in together. Oisín kicked out his leg at someone who was getting too close and invading his personal space.

Oscar now acts as a natural barrier to ensure Oisín has that personal space.