When Walter came to paws4vets in 2014, he was suffering from memory loss from Lyme Disease, an increase in flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and PTSD from serving in the Vietnam War. He wasn’t living; his family was suffering, and then came JACKSON.
JACKSON had a lot of work to do, and he not only helped Walter, but he also helped his family, too. He gave Walter the confidence to go out of the house, he worked by his side at his job, he helped in situations where there were loud noises and crowded rooms, and he came along when Walter and his wife traveled cross-country.
With all Walter and JACKSON have done together, it is time for JACKSON to retire. He has given Walter a life he could never imagine and has healed his family relationships. While it is very bittersweet, he deserves this time. He laid the foundation of healing, and now NOVA will continue that journey with Walter.
Walter and NOVA bumped in July 2026, and Walter is ready to move forward with her by his side. NOVA is helping Walter to navigate daily life by retrieving dropped or needed items, bracing to help with sit-to-stand transitions, and anchoring him during moments of anxiety. Medical appointments at the VA are a big part of Walter’s life, and NOVA will be able to keep him grounded, provide deep pressure therapy, and alert him when people are approaching from behind to minimize his startle reflex. Walter is looking forward to staying engaged in his community and with his family as NOVA helps him with this next chapter.