It all started with a dog named Porter...

It all started with a dog named Porter, who eventually not only put me on my path but also led me to my husband. I met the sprightly Chesapeake Bay Retriever when he was just 4 months old in the mountains of Colorado. I ended up in Leadville along my travels and the age old story of trying to “find myself” after high schools end. I had some friends in town, who were expecting me, but were not home when I arrived. I was greeted by Porter. It was love at first sight! I quickly bonded with him and soon bonded with his owner, who eventually became my husband. At age 2, Porter came down with what the vets called immune mediated disease, meaning his immune system was attacking itself. This caused lameness, lethargy, pain, agitation; loss of vitality, the list goes on. Through course after course of steroids, antibiotics, cosequin, etc...I thought to myself, if his immune system is attacking itself, then why are we weakening it further with all of this medication? I started looking into alternative methods. I found that simple vitamin C helped balance the immune system and it also acted as a painkiller in dogs. I found that nasturtium and dandelion root and various other herbs helped to stabilize Porter. Then I found that massage worked wonders on him. Porter not only regained strength, but also seemed like his old self again. He loved the massage the most; he even requested it.

Porter died at age 5 of kidney failure, which I wonder to this day if it was the promotion of the western intervention. Upon his death, my vet said that we had actually prolonged his life with the methods we used; simply, they did not think he would live past three.

After the death of Porter, my love for natural means of medicine consumed me. I enrolled in College, studying Biology and Environmental issues. I then continued my education pursuing a Doctorate in natural Health, which of course I am still pursuing! However, to supplement my thirst for healing and health, I enrolled in a Muscle Therapy program, where I quickly adapted to the aspects of wellness. Upon graduation, I decided that I would set up shop, delving into a private practice. For 4 years, I shared office space with two other therapists, dreaming of the day that I would finally be able to open a Wellness Center. In this Center, I wished for all aspects of natural healing to come together under one roof. Today, this dream is now my reality.

Thanks to the short life of Porter, the constant support from my husband, and the healing arts, we have formulated Gateway Bodyworks & Wellness Center. It is our goal to help and heal one person at a time with the love and respect that came from the teachings of one beautiful dog. Gateway Bodyworks is established to promote wellness, preventative care, and holistic health; your gateway to health and healing.

Porter truly lived up to his name, teaching me, leading me down my path and I am forever grateful to know and share such an amazing existence. And now I can share my experiences, love, gratitude and knowledge with all who cross my path. Welcome to Gateway Bodyworks, we look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely,
Lisa Firey
Owner/LMT, RYT