About David & Trooper
Who is David
David is a legally blind Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and guide dog handler, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. He was born with congenital bilateral cataracts (a rare condition at birth) that required surgical removal at a very young age. While he has no memory of the procedure, his vision remained relatively stable for many years afterward.
During his teenage years, David’s eyesight began to change, eventually resulting in limited and fluctuating vision in his right eye. His visual ability can vary from day to day, influenced by how his brain processes visual information. Despite these challenges, David has developed a strong sense of adaptability, focus, and resilience.
As a massage therapist, David relies on refined palpation skills, anatomical knowledge, and clear communication to provide precise, attentive care. He works alongside his guide dog, Trooper, and is committed to creating a professional, welcoming, and accessible environment where clients feel safe, respected, and well cared for.
Client-Centred Care & Treatment Approach
David’s approach to massage therapy is thorough, thoughtful, and centred on clear communication. Every appointment begins with a detailed intake and interview, allowing clients to share their concerns, goals, health history, and any areas of discomfort or restriction. This conversation is an essential part of the treatment and helps ensure care is both safe and effective.
When appropriate, David performs focused assessments to better understand movement patterns, tissue restrictions, and contributing factors to pain or dysfunction. These assessments guide clinical decision-making and allow treatment to be tailored to each individual rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
Before beginning treatment, David clearly explains his findings and outlines a proposed treatment plan, including the techniques he may use and what the client can expect during the session. Clients are encouraged to ask questions and provide feedback at any point. Throughout the massage, David checks in regularly and adapts treatment based on client comfort and response.
This collaborative approach ensures clients feel informed, respected, and actively involved in their care, while receiving precise, effective massage therapy focused on their specific needs.
Trooper – Guide Dog & Coworker
David works alongside his black lab guide dog, Trooper, a fully trained guide dog who supports him in both daily life and the clinical environment. In the treatment space, Trooper is calm, professional, and well-mannered, helping create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
When Trooper is in his harness, he is focused on his work. Outside of those moments, he is very much a dog. He loves scratches, playing tug, chewing on his favourite Y-shaped Nylabone, running, sniffing, and greeting familiar people with his signature full-body wiggle. For many clients, he is a comforting and reassuring presence and an important part of the practice. His presence reflects the clinic’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and respectful, client-centred care.
Trooper (and his previous guide) were trained and placed through Guide Dogs for the Blind, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1942, based in California and Oregon. GBD offers their clients guide dogs at no cost and provides support throughout the life of a clients guide.
Teaching & Professional Involvement at Mount Royal University
In addition to his clinical practice, David is actively involved in massage therapy education as a Teaching Assistant at Mount Royal University. He supports students across multiple areas of the program, including Musculoskeletal (MSK) courses, Massage Techniques II, and the student practicum clinic.
In this role, David assists students in developing hands-on skills, clinical reasoning, and professional confidence. His teaching emphasizes anatomy, palpation accuracy, client communication, and safe, effective treatment techniques. Through demonstrations, guided practice, and one-on-one support, he helps students build strong foundations for clinical work.
Trooper also plays an important role in the learning environment. As a working guide dog, Trooper supports David’s mobility and independence on campus while modeling professionalism and calm behaviour in clinical and classroom settings. Students learn how to interact respectfully with a working guide dog and gain practical exposure to accessibility and inclusion within healthcare education. Trooper’s presence often opens meaningful conversations about adaptability, professionalism, and client-centred care.
David’s involvement in education helps keep his own practice current, evidence-informed, and grounded in best practices. It also reflects his commitment to the massage therapy profession and to supporting the next generation of Registered Massage Therapists.
