Lyn Kolsteren, a Baha user since 1998 and chairperson of the Baha users support group, tells the story of her hearing dog Liffey
October 2006
On the 4th October 2006 I had a letter through the door, with the Hearing Dogs frank on the front. I held my breath and told myself that it was “another newsletter”. But when I opened it the first thing I saw was a picture, a photo of this beautiful dog with bright eyes (and obvious abundance of intellect!) looking back at me. I turned over the photo, on the back was written “Liffey”.
My heart skipped a beat (well, a few if truth be told!). I opened up the folded letter, and read the first couple of lines. Then I re-read them!
I was being invited to meet Liffey on the 11th October, and if we were found to be suited to each other I would be going up to the Hearing Dog centre in Buckinghamshire in November for my pre-placement training week with Liffey, and all being well would bring her home on the 24th November.
I phoned my husband at work, and told him the news. By then the reality started to kick in. I had waited for this moment for a long time. I had full trust in Hearing Dogs that they would find me the right dog, just as they would ensure they found the right partner for their dog. Then I called my Mum, and cried. This meant so much to me. I grew up with dogs, and even had my parents dogs (my “sisters") at my wedding! But during my marriage we hadn’t had any dogs. I never felt the time was right, that we would be able to give our best to one.
In time, once the children had grown and were more independent, I felt I would like a dog. Then I began to think how my hearing loss affects my life, and I begrudged having to wake each morning by using a vibrating alarm beneath my pillow. It wasn’t the best way for me to start each day! So decided to apply for a Hearing Dog.
I went through the assessment process and was told that they would be able to offer me a dog, advising me it could be a while due to their waiting list. I was happy to wait, as long as it would take.
As time went by I told myself that each day of waiting was one day less…Then the letter came.
I went up on the 11th October with my father to meet Liffey, it was an absolutely horrid day for weather, but when I met Liffey it really didn’t matter! She was lovely, and very excited to meet us. My Dad sat quietly while I played with Liffey. At first she was more interested in the smells in the room where we were, as she hadn’t been in there before.
Later I was taken with the trainer to the field at the centre where she threw the ball for Liffey to show me how good she was off lead. I walked with Liffey trotting beside me to heal, her head beside my knee. I felt so happy to see her little head bobbing as we walked, her tail held high.
Then I had to say goodbye...
Click here for more information on the Baha users support group.
Click here for more information on Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
