Hayden has always navigated a silent world as someone born profoundly Deaf due to Goldenhar Syndrome. For him, being Deaf is simply life as he knows it. But it also means missing everyday sounds that most people who can hear take for granted: a doorbell, a name called from behind, a knock at the door.
As a teen, Hayden’s mom noticed how much her son wasn’t aware of missing, like knocks on the door, dropping items without realizing, and leaving the water running. She convinced him to apply for a hearing dog from Canine Companions. When he was matched with his first hearing dog, Remy, Hayden’s life opened up in ways he never imagined. After 10 years by his side, Remy retired and Hayden was matched with an intelligent, spirited dog named Abby, who never misses a chance to let Hayden know a sound is happening.
“Having a hearing dog makes a profound difference in my life,” Hayden comments. “I used to think I didn’t miss much of what was going on around me, but boy, was I wrong. My hearing dogs are so attentive that they constantly make me curious about the environment, making me aware of things I would have otherwise overlooked.”
For Hayden, life is busy! He’s married, has a job and lives in a bustling city. As his ears, Abby goes almost everywhere with him. “My wife and I love exploring new places, so Abby is always included when we go out to restaurants or events.” Hayden frequently uses the metro and bus, where Abby is an experienced professional.
“Abby helps me notice the world around me,” Hayden shares. “She gives me a level of independence I didn’t even realize I was missing.”
Thanks to Abby’s attentiveness, Hayden doesn’t miss sounds like his wife calling his name or visitors knocking on the front door. He also feels more aware on the go — from navigating hectic city streets to flying across the country for the Transplant Games of America, where Hayden competes as a proud kidney transplant recipient and athlete.
“Abby has helped me more than I could have imagined,” Hayden remarks. “She has exceeded all of my expectations and surprises me every day.”