Team consists of: Elizabeth Dittman, Alexandria Brady-Mine, Megan Granberg, Sean Anderson, and Xuede Chen
Our Challenger is a retired Army Major. In 2003, while serving, a rocket propelled grenade (RPG) injured his right leg. Due to the shrapnel and dirt he suffered multiple infections and endured 24 surgeries. In 2015, he elected to undergo a right leg above the knee amputation in order to reduce infection and improve function. He had osseointegration surgery Stage 1 in Feb 2019.
Our Challenger utilizes a service/mobility dog, Rory. Rory performs functional assistance for him in a variety of tasks, including bracing wheelchair, assisting with balance, and picking up items. Rory accompanies him in his F150 Ford truck. Rory is a 7-year-old, specialty trained service dog, and would benefit from a ramp to get in and out of the truck.
Our Challenger has been unable to find a suitable commercial ramp for Rory. The ramp should not be too steep or inclined for Rory or the truck, and it must be able to fit in the truck without too many adjustments. The ramp must not take up much space when used and stored. It should be movable, reliable and safe. Our Challenger should be able to use it independently. This ramp would decrease the wear and tear on Rory’s joints resulting from jumping in and out of the truck. Our Challenger would like assistance to maintain Rory’s health.
