"Arya has opened up a whole new world"
Posted by Matt Sadler
Arya was once a cute little cuddly puppy – strong-willed, smart, and sleepy. Today she’s totally transformed Peter’s life, thanks to the kindness of people who sponsored her...
Peter’s deafness was not diagnosed until he was 50. He explains: “I believe I started going deaf at an early age, as people asked me why I often said ‘Pardon?’.
Eventually a doctor told me I was profoundly deaf, and that my hearing will continue to deteriorate. Nobody knows why.”
“I studied very hard to pass all my exams, and then I worked for the fire service. I was a full-time firefighter for 18 years.
“It was a very fulfilling career, and I don’t believe my deafness had any impact on my ability. Eventually, after breaking my arm and having problems during rescues, I was medically discharged.”
Becoming more isolated
Even though Peter made a life for himself, got married, started a family and held a very responsible job, his deafness made things increasingly difficult.
“It became very frustrating,” he says. “I would just agree with people although I didn’t know what they were saying, because it was easier. I couldn’t hear the doorbell, so I’d miss visitors. I couldn’t hear the TV.
“When my wife passed away 14 years ago, I felt very lonely. Plus, after my time in the fire service, I became very worried about not responding to the smoke or fire alarm.”
“As the years passed, I became more isolated. I decided to work on my own, renovating houses. It was easier being by myself, but I became very lonely and depressed – it was a difficult time for me.
“When I found out about Hearing Dogs, I donated to the Charity. Then I realised it might be a good idea to have a dog myself!”
And then…Arya!
Peter adores Arya.
“She’s cheeky, and loves playing. I often set the portable timer to remind me about appointments and cooking. Arya’s always there, ready with those nose nudges.
“She woke me up recently when the fire alarm went off in the early morning. She jumped on me, then lay down to give me the danger signal. I gave her the biggest hug ever.
“Arya has opened a whole new world. I like getting out in my camper van, and I can do that more now she’s by my side. I sleep better in the van, knowing she’s there.
“I can also spend more time with my grandchildren. When we watched Peter Rabbit, I was worried that Arya might bark at the screen, but she just watched it all, moving her head side to side.
“I also find that people now want to talk to me. When I’m out walking with Arya, I meet people and talk to other dog walkers in particular. I’ve made new friends, which is wonderful. I feel much better in myself.”
Arya helped Peter to feel less lonely and reconnect with life. What Peter didn’t expect was that he would become part of the Hearing Dogs family – a network of supportive staff, volunteers and hearing dog partners. Peter has made new friends and has started volunteering for Hearing Dogs.
“I love meeting up with other deaf people and their dogs, the meetings we have are fantastic.
“I’ve even become more involved with the Charity, giving presentations to explain to people the impact Arya has made.”
Indeed, Laura Amos, the charity’s Major Giving Senior Officer, has been bowled over by Peter’s involvement and enthusiasm. She explains: “Peter and Arya came along to one of our corporate events to help talk to attendees about how Arya helps him.
“Peter engaged so many people, answering all their questions and explaining how important hearing dogs are. He was so keen to chat with everyone and encouraged lots of people to consider supporting the Charity.
“It’s wonderful to have him as part of the Hearing Dogs family, raising awareness about how hearings dogs can change lives. They’re such a brilliant partnership and you would have never known that it was their first event volunteering!”
Thank you for your kindness
Arya is perfect for Peter, and vice versa. Whether helping him with sounds on a daily basis, or enabling him to build confidence and live a full life, she’s exactly what Peter needed.
“I would love to thank all the people who sponsored Arya,” Peter tells us.
“Without them, my life would have been totally different – very negative, lonely and sad. I love Arya so much, she is not only my soul mate but my best friend too.”
Sponsor a puppy and change a deaf person's life
These cute puppies are training to become life-changers. Sponsor them from £5 a month and follow their journey as they learn how to help a deaf person.
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