Rosie, a service dog known as the Chemistry Corgi, has been a constant companion to Lauryn Ahlm, a senior biomedical engineering major from Rogers, Minnesota. For three years, Rosie has accompanied Ahlm through classes and labs at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), assisting her in managing chronic migraine headaches.
Ahlm’s migraines began before high school and proved resistant to treatment for several years. “That was a very difficult time for me,” she recalls. “I couldn’t be in public school; homeschooling was my only option, and I sort of lost a year.” This period allowed her to explore college options, eventually leading her to UWEC’s biomedical engineering program.
During this challenging time, Rosie became more than just a family pet. Ahlm noticed that Rosie would act differently before the onset of her migraines. She theorized that Rosie could detect some scent signaling an impending episode. With guidance from an obedience trainer, Ahlm trained Rosie to alert her by nudging when a migraine was imminent. “When Rosie senses change early in that process, she nudges my leg with her nose until I go take my medication,” says Ahlm.
At college, Rosie’s presence eased medical concerns and provided social benefits. “Everyone loves her — in fact faculty began trying to map out what classes I would likely have next so they could figure out if they might ‘get us’ in their class or lab,” says Ahlm.
Dr. Joe Petefish notes Rosie’s impact on students: “Rosie has served as the unofficial mascot for the graduating biomedical engineering students.” Her playful nature outside work hours is well-known among peers.
Ahlm’s research experience at UWEC led to employment opportunities even before graduation. She collaborated with Dr. Doug Dunham on 3D printed medical models used by Mayo Clinic Health System surgeons. This hands-on experience helped secure her role as an application engineer at Stratasys in Minnesota.
As Rosie approaches semi-retirement following commencement ceremonies where she will receive recognition for her service, she will continue accompanying Ahlm during remote workdays from home.
