Finding Balance through Four Paws

It’s hard not to notice - and fall in love with – mobility and balance service dog Maverick, along with his owners Nancy and Byron Bartley!

Nancy suffered her first stroke in 1992, shortly after turning 33-years-old. Prior to moving to Chattanooga, her access to physical rehabilitative care was limited, which she feels hindered her recovery.

“Having the stroke was scary. I had no idea what was happening, and at the time I was a single mom,” said Nancy.

Over the next several years, she met and married her husband Byron, advanced in her career, moved, and ultimately suffered from two more strokes - one in 1999 and another in 2004. Nancy’s balance and mobility were significantly impacted by the strokes and the lack of proper physical rehabilitation.

Working in behavioral health, Nancy noticed an increase in the use of animal therapy and wanted to incorporate it into her own care. During a traditional dog obedience course, the trainer suggested that Nancy look into getting a service dog. A life-long Great Dane lover and owner, Nancy discovered they could be trained to aid in balance and mobility. It was no surprise that a Great Dane would become her constant companion.

Nancy and Byron moved to the Chattanooga area in 2014 after retiring. Her new primary care provider recommended getting her back in outpatient therapy at Siskin Outpatient Therapy’s Center for NeuroRecovery. With the help of specialized equipment, such as the Functional Electrical Stimulation Bike, and Siskin Outpatient’s highly skilled clinical team, Nancy was able to see significant progress more than a decade after her last stroke.

“I had never experienced physical therapy like what I did at Siskin Hospital,” said Nancy. “I am so much more aware and prepared.”

Because of her incredibly positive experience with Siskin Outpatient Therapy, Nancy chose Siskin Hospital for her inpatient care after undergoing knee replacement surgery. During that time, Byron would take Riley, Nancy’s first service dog, for walks in the old Leisure Park, where the Healing Gardens are now located, and the gentle giant quickly became a favorite with associates.

As Nancy’s health and age progress, it becomes harder for her to be independently mobile, and she is at greater risk of falls. Through a combination of her care from Siskin Outpatient Therapy and her current service dog Maverick, Nancy is able to remain mobile and be as safe as possible.

During Nancy’s weekly outpatient therapy appointments, Maverick can be seen going on adventures with Byron around the area, including in Grady’s Garden.

We are so thankful to have made a difference in the lives of Nancy, Byron and Maverick!