Nursing Student’s Service Dog Dispute Ends with Expulsion: A Case of Disability Discrimination
Maria Thomson, a nursing student with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), faced a series of challenges at Joyce University involving her service dog, Daisy.
Thomson, who relies on Daisy to alert her to POTS symptoms, initially received accommodations from the university, such as extended testing time. However, issues arose when a new ADA coordinator replaced the previous one.
In February 2023, Thomson attended a clinical at St. Mark’s Hospital without Daisy due to medical reasons. Subsequently, she was questioned about her disability and accused of violating the university’s code of conduct. Despite providing a letter from her doctor explaining her need for accommodations, the university denied extended testing time for more difficult courses.
On March 21, 2023, Thomson was told she was “a liability without Daisy” and asked to leave a clinical. Two days later, she received a dismissal letter from Joyce University’s legal team.
Thomson filed a lawsuit against the university under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The lawsuit alleges that Joyce University failed to provide proper accommodations for her disability, despite her attempts to advocate for herself.
The case highlights the lack of awareness and inadequate practices for accommodating students with disabilities in STEM settings. Experts emphasize that individuals with service dogs can thrive in these environments with appropriate accommodations and support.
As the lawsuit progresses, Thomson remains determined to receive a fair resolution and to ensure that other students with disabilities are not faced with similar barriers.
Key Points:
* A nursing student with POTS was expelled from her university after a dispute over her service dog.
* The student alleges that the university violated her civil rights under the ADA by failing to accommodate her disability.
* The case highlights the need for increased awareness and improved practices for accommodating students with disabilities in STEM settings.
* Individuals with service dogs can thrive in STEM environments with appropriate accommodations and support.
