Our Team

Ashley York Ruff

Director of Sales & Prosthetist-Orthotist

Ashley first received a BS in Exercise Science from East Tennessee State University. She received her training in orthotics and prosthetics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She worked as a Certified Prosthetist- Orthotist on the human side with Michigan Orthopedic Services for 10 years. She focused on working with children with special needs, running several clinics within schools for kids with disabilities. During her time there, she also ran a clinic for the State of Michigan prison system and took care of all prisoners' orthotic and prosthetic needs.

When Ben told Ashley about the lack of orthotic options for canines and the growing need for them, she decided to make the switch from the human side to the canine side. She has been amazed to watch the rehabilitation world grow in veterinary medicine and is excited to be a part of it all.

One of Ashley's top priorities is to help educate veterinary professionals about the field of bracing. She teaches around the country at multiple universities and conferences to both students and professionals furthering their educations. She also works with veterinarians and clients to help them through the process of receiving a brace.

Ben Blecha, MPO, CPO

Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist and Founder

Ben received his training in orthotics and prosthetics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As a Certified Orthotist-Prosthetist on the human side, his work experience includes a stint at Shriners Hospitals for Children-Greenville. Ben’s personal experience with osteosarcoma bone cancer and amputation feed his drive to help others.

When introduced to Dr. Robert Taylor of Animal Planet’s Emergency Vets show, Ben was asked to consult on a project for a dog name Triumph. Ben learned of the limited options available for animals with limb injuries and deformities, inspiring the founding of Hero braces.

Ben focuses his efforts on helping animals and continues to consult in human orthotics and prosthetics. He has been invited to speak at conferences on both human and animal orthotics and prosthetics, including the annual meetings of the 2011 American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association and the 2008 International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.

Erick Alvarez, CPO

Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist

Bio

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Kenzie Sturgeon

Customer Service Representative

Kenzie’s pathway to the Hero team started as a student at Colby Community College, where she pursued multiple associate degrees related to equine science and the agri-business industries. A devoted animal lover, Kenize serves as a liaison between our customers and our technical team.

A responsive, compassionate and dedicated team member, Kenzie is often the first point of contact for those searching for a solution to help their loved ones. Kenzie is mindful of patients’ worries and struggles and is supportive of their need for guidance and information.

If Kenzie doesn’t know the answer, and she often does, she’ll consult with other staff and communicate suggestions and solutions. It’s good to know that she’s on the other end of your call.

Dr. Paul Brumett, DVM, CCRP, cAVCA, HTAP

Veterinary Representative

Dr. Paul Brumett is a 1999 graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University. He received the CCRP certification (Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner) from the University of Tennessee and is certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. He is also a Healing Touch for Animals ® Practitioner.

Dr. Brumett has worked in Mixed Animal Practice, Small Animal General Practice, Emergency Medicine, and Canine Rehabilitation during his career. In 2013 he began his journey in Complementary Therapy to help his patients further as he felt limited by traditional medicine.

Dr. Brumett has given presentations on orthotics and bracing at national and international conferences and works as a consultant and representative for Hero Braces. Dr. Brumett currently practices Canine Rehabilitation and Veterinary Chiropractic in Grand Junction, CO and is owner of Animal Tracks Rehabilitation and Fitness LLC.

Robby Porter, CCRP,

Veterinary Technician Representative

Robby was one of the first people to be certified in canine rehabilitation in the United States in 2003 from the University of Tennessee. Before coming to us Robby’s career focus was to provide physical therapy to small animals patients within several veterinary surgical specially hospitals.

A strong passion to create media that educates and helps animal owners become well informed also fueled Robby’s techniques to search for more kind, less stressful and companionate care in the veterinary clinic.

Robby has lectured all over the world and taught a unique canine exercise and training system to thousands of dogs and animal caregivers. We are pleased to have Robby on our education team.

Shelby Baney

Lab Tech and Customer Service Representative

Shelby is a fun-loving individual who brings an energetic and vibrant spirit to any work environment. Known for her contagious laughter and positive attitude, Shelby knows how to create a lively atmosphere that keeps morale high and team spirits lifted. She believes that a happy and lighthearted environment enhances productivity and fosters creativity.

Shelby has been with the Hero team as a Lab Tech, and Customer Service Representative for 3 years. Prior to Hero Shelby worked as a dispatcher for 4 years at our local Sheriff's department. Her prior work experience has allowed her to work in highly intense situations and still remain calm, and effectively get tasks carried out.

Outside of work, Shelby enjoys spending time with her husband, Nick, and her two children, Thea and Nolan.

Trina Stute

Technical Director

Trina’s dedication to the Hero team comes from her commitment to help animals heal from painful ACL injuries. With her background in physical education, she has experienced the importance of bracing first hand.

Trina says, “My greatest satisfaction comes from seeing many of our clients so grateful for their animals returning back to normal. This is why I work for Hero.”

As Technical Director, she makes each brace from start to finish, working carefully to ensure a great fit for each animal and communicating with clients to make sure that satisfaction is complete.

Dr. Wayne Watkins, DVM

Veterinarian and Co-Founder

Dr. Watkins is a mixed practice veterinarian with more than 30 years of experience successfully treating limb and joint injuries and deformities in more than a half dozen species. His veterinary training was at The Ohio State University. His private practice is Red Willow Animal Clinic.

His ability to merge the science of biomechanics with the clinical applications of bracing has been invaluable in fine tuning the construction of Hero braces for practical application by veterinarians. He joined the Hero team because he believes that bracing offers better outcomes.