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A New Prescription for Post-NFL Pain: How a Service Dog Helps an Ex-Lineman Cope

Brian Schaefering went to the movies with his wife in early July. They saw Central Intelligence, starring The Rock and Kevin Hart, at their local theater.

Date night for a young couple isn't exactly breaking news, even when that couple has four young children. But the Schaeferings had not gone to the movies together for nine months. In fact, Brian had rarely left the house at all.

Brian Schaefering, 33 years old, an NFL defensive lineman from 2009 through 2012, has significant brain damage. He suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as a host of more mundane football-related injuries and issues that make getting around a challenge.