10/03/2026
A new idea. A lot of pushback. And a business that refused to give up. 💧
When Jessica and Dustin Ford first approached the America’s SBDC at Tarleton State University, they had an idea for a business that didn’t yet exist in Stephenville: an IV hydration lounge.
While IV hydration lounges were becoming increasingly popular in larger cities, the concept was still relatively unfamiliar in Stephenville. As the Fords began working toward opening their business, they encountered significant pushback from some of the people and organizations they turned to for advice and assistance.
But the SBDC believed in their vision.
Together with their SBDC advisor, Jessica and Dustin worked through the challenges of starting a new business and ultimately secured the capital they needed to bring their idea to life. That idea became MedZone, an IV hydration and medical services business serving the Stephenville community.
Since opening, MedZone has established a regular clientele and now works almost exclusively by appointment. But the Fords aren’t finished growing.
Jessica is currently completing her formal training to become a Physician Assistant. Once she completes her training, the couple plans to expand MedZone into a larger space, allowing them to provide a broader range of IV hydration and medical services.
Their hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Based on end-user voting, MedZone was named one of the Top 3 Medical Clinics in Stephenville in both 2025 and 2026. 🎉
Jessica and Dustin’s story is a reminder that bringing a new idea to a community isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it takes persistence, planning, access to capital and the right support system to turn an idea into a successful business.
We’re proud to have supported the Fords along the way and are excited to see where MedZone goes next!
Congratulations, Jessica and Dustin, on all you’ve accomplished! 👏
