I saw an advertisement on Facebook regarding a fitness challenge. I need to get healthy and decided to schedule an appointment. I informed the person that I had a disability and had a service animal. They stated that it wasn't a problem. I scheduled my appointment and arrived at ILovekickboxing in Midland, Ga, I went and sat amongst several women. Two even had infants.  I again stated that I was disabled and had medical issues and would probably need modified exercises. Again the manager stated she even had arthritis and understood. I informed her abd the speaker of my actual medical issues in private and they stated it would all be okay. Everyone was relaxed and I paid and informed them I would start that evening. I arrived as scheduled, but was stopped outside by my oldest son. I finally went in to I love kickboxing in Midland GA and was informed that they had just started a class and the next one was in an hour. So I sat down. The trainer came over and petted my dog. The owner had looked at us when I arrived and didn't say anything. I didn't know he was when i entered. I had addressed Bruce Dollé since he was behind the counter.  He (Bruce Dollé) had directed me to an instructor for service when I had arrived only. Even his son came over and petted my service animal . Even though this is not something I practice , but wanted to verify everyone was relaxed. Finally the class ended and a nice yough lady started to show me the ropes. She took me to the lockers to leave my socks, shoes and other personal belongings. I decided I wanted to take the farthest punching bag to be out of the way. Not knowing how or if I could go this,  but was excited to get help in getting healthier and the music sounded great. So comrodery would definitely help, even they say that!  Next thing I am confronted by Bruno Dollé in front of everyone and told that I needed to place my service animal in the men's locker. I politely informed him that my service animal was a medical necessity and she needed to have full access to me. That she had not done anything and would not be a problem. I couldn't understand. He stated "That one person was afraid to run, so I was bad for business and no longer accepted ". I informed him I was not going to pay for services and be told I couldn't use his service. He quickly told me he would refund my money. I was allowed to retrieve my belongings and had to wait as he found my information and he claims I would see a refund on my account. I requested my contract and was denied. Everyone watching me as this was happening. How embarrassing! I felt like I had something so wrong with me. Finally the same gentleman that had just finished the class started the music and everyone hopefully engaged, so they couldn't still be staring at me. I left and just sat in my car. It's hard having a disability and exposing yourself to situations that most people take for granted,  but another to be signaled out in a supposed no judgement environment. In today's world unfortunately we have disabled people.  Not all have missing parts or blind. We don't want special treatment,  just to be able to exist too! It takes time and commitment to train a service animal to aid us and comply with ADA regulations. My dog and I were judged on " What If"!  How do I train for that?  How would anyone of us feel trying to do anything and being shown a door without having done anything ! We have laws, but how do you stop ignorance and discrimination in business or people?

I don't like making anyone uncomfortable and train all the time,  but how about having some respect for me. A dog that sits in your establishment for several hours and doesn't break the law should be able to continue to assist it's handler.