RECEIVING Harry, a Black Labrador Hearing Dog for Deaf People has changed the life of a Caerhywel man, who now has the confidence to go out with his best friend.
In August, grandfather of five, Chris Lynham, will be trekking up Snowdon with Harry, to help raise funds for Hearing Dogs for Disabled.
Retired engineer, Chris, 66 explained: “Harry came into my life in October 2016, and gave me the confidence to go out into the world and meet people again after being deaf for the last 25 years.
“The Charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is a wonderful organisation which is run by caring staff I have always wanted to give something back to the charity so they may help many more deaf people.
“It is a disability that is unseen but very real for many thousands of people.”
Wife Hilary, said: “Chris has been busy practising for the trek, walking to Montgomery and back as well as along parts of Offa’s Dyke.
“He has been up Snowdon before but that was many years ago and the trek will be starting in Llanberis.
“Harry has been a revelation, Chris has just 18 per cent of normal hearing and he wouldn’t want to go out anywhere preferring to stay at home.
“But now with Harry as a constant companion who can help him, we’re able to go out, and I can also go out knowing that Chris is OK.
“People love dogs, so if we’re out shopping, Harry being there provides a topic for conversation.”
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People help by alerting their owners to sounds.
If a smoke alarm goes off, Harry would alert Chris by nudging him and then lying down as a signal for danger. If a timer goes off such as on a cooker Harry would again alert Chris and lead him to the timer that is beeping. It’s the same when the phone rings or receives messages, Harry hears the sound and then alerts Chris leading him to the phone.
Hilary added: “If Chris is out walking and someone comes up behind wants to get by, Chris can’t hear them so Harry will realise and nudge him out of the way.”Harry’s is very loveable and we can’t help but love him.
n If you would like to donate visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ChrisLynham
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