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In 2019, Australian Paralympian Taryn Dickens suffered a medical condition that led to alcoholism and a six-week stint in a mental health unit. Yet, she refused to allow her battle with cone-rod dystrophy to dictate her life in the long run.
Despite losing her vision, she continued to fight for her dream of competing at the Olympics. In 2026, that dream came true as she competed at the Milano Cortina Paralympic Winter Games. And she had a loyal friend helping her.
She shared the story of Gigi, her assistance dog and constant companion. When she lost her vision in 2019, Gigi became a source of support and stability. They share a strong bond that helps Dickens stay focused on the goal.
Gigi is not part of the official team. She might not wear a uniform or stand at the start line. But her role in Dickens’ life runs deeper.
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The Bond Between Gigi and Taryn
Speaking about Gigi, Dickens said, “When I first got partnered with Gigi, I think I was 12 months out of a mental health unit. Since then, she has just been a shining light in my life. Walking through the media and stuff like that, it’s a lot more relaxing for me to have Gigi there.”
The Paralympian also talked about how they have similar personalities, saying, “We have a great time together. We’ve got the same sort of personality, I think.”
The fun part is that Dickens never skied before losing her vision. It was a totally new experience for her. But as she says, “Cross-country skiing and biathlon just gave me that independence that I felt like I was losing through the loss of my eyesight.”
How Dogs Help Us Get Through Tough Times
There is a reason therapy dogs are used in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and even disaster response. Being around a dog can lower cortisol levels, the hormone tied to stress, while increasing oxytocin, the one linked to bonding and calm.
Yet, what statistics do not show is what happens in real life. If you have ever had a dog rest their head on your knee after a long day, you know the feeling. The world does not fix itself in that moment, but it becomes manageable again.
For athletes like Dickens, that emotional reset matters. High-level competition is as mental as it is physical. Having a constant source of support can be the difference between burnout and resilience. Gigi does not care about rankings or times. She cares about Taryn with all her heart and love. Some people will call Gigi a companion. But she is part of the foundation that makes everything else possible.
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Mar 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.