Empowerment on Four Legs: Celebrating National Service Dog Month

Ryan, next to service dog Pico, poses with D.C. Councilwoman Brooke Pinto, Canine Companions puppy raiser, Jaime Werner and her service dog in training, Boston following the recognition of National Service Dog Month by the D.C. City Council

Yesterday, I was honored to witness the formal recognition of National Service Dog Month by the Council of the District of Columbia, a testament to the incredible work of organizations like Canine Companions®.

Since its inception in 1975, they have placed 7,454 graduate teams. Just this year, 413 working dog teams have been placed, and there are currently 2,706 active graduate teams nationwide. Behind these numbers are countless stories of individuals finding newfound independence and confidence, thanks to their service dogs.

But these achievements aren't just the result of the organization's efforts alone. A vast network of 4,700 active volunteers nationwide, including 1,292 volunteer puppy raisers and 138 volunteer breeder caretakers, contribute to this mission. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting Jaime Werner, a volunteer puppy raiser whose dedication ensures that service dogs like Pico are well-trained and ready to assist individuals like me. She is currently raising her sixth dog, Boston.

Councilwoman Brooke Pinto's introduction of this legislation is a significant step forward in recognizing the importance of service dogs in our community. Navigating the world with myriad disabilities can be tricky, and Pico has been instrumental in my daily life.

As we celebrate National Service Dog Month, let's remember that independence shouldn't be limited. Every individual, regardless of their challenges, deserves the chance to lead a life with greater autonomy. And with the support of service dogs and the organizations that train them, this vision is becoming a reality for many.

Thank you, Canine Companions, for your unwavering dedication. And to Pico, my loyal companion, thank you for being my eyes, ears, and a never-ending source of joy and humor.

Snapshots of Service: Pico's Dedication Amidst a Career of Change

Pico stands behind the American flag for his professional portrait at the US Department of Labor

As I sit at my desk, the hum of assistive technology filling the room, I'm reminded of the many challenges and triumphs I've faced as a disability advocate and federal employee. My early days at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) saw me promoting the newly minted Obamacare, a transformative period in our nation's healthcare landscape. Later, at the USPTO, I was fiercely protecting intellectual property, ensuring the sanctity of innovation and creativity. Today, I promote the impactful mission of the U.S. Department of Labor, protecting our nation's workforce.

Yet, amidst these professional milestones, there's been a constant, loyal presence by my side for the past decade - my service dog, Pico.

September marks National Service Dog Month, a time to honor the incredible animals that transform lives daily. Pico, a graduate of Canine Companions®, joined me after my tenure at HHS. As a wheelchair user with a visual impairment, navigating the world can be daunting. But with Pico, every challenge becomes surmountable. His unwavering support, especially in the workplace, has been nothing short of amazing.

Invisible disabilities, like my chronic pain, often go unnoticed. But Pico sees it all. He senses my discomfort, offering solace with a nuzzle or a comforting presence by my side. He's more than just a service dog; he's a confidant, a protector, and a never-ending source of comedy.

Recently, thanks to the talented Shawn Moore, Pico and I had a moment that encapsulated our journey. As the camera clicked, capturing Pico in his full professional glory, I felt a swell of pride. It was a moment of recognition, not just for Pico's service but for every service animal that has made a difference in someone's life.

To Pico, I say, "Thank you." Thank you for your unwavering service, for the moments of joy, and for the challenges we've overcome together. Here's to many more years of partnership, advocacy, and making a difference.

Join me in celebrating National Service Dog Month. Share your stories, honor these incredible animals, and let's continue the conversation on the importance of accessibility and inclusion in every workspace.

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Plane

A UK-based consortium has created a cabin concept that allows wheelchair users to use their own chair when flying on airlines

Greetings, fellow readers! I'm your friendly neighborhood wheelchair user, navigating the world with everyone’s favorite 70-pound Lab Retriever, Canine Companions® Pico. Over the near decade that we’ve been matched, we have a knack for finding ourselves in the most absurd situations.

Let's talk about flying. Not the Superman kind, but the "strapped into a metal tube hurtling through the sky" kind. It's a bit like a roller coaster, except the ride lasts for hours and there's no overpriced keepsake photo afterward proving you survived.

Now, imagine doing this while also wondering if your legs (aka my wheelchair) will still work when you land. It's like playing a game of "Wheelchair Roulette". The stakes? A cool $20,000. That's right, folks. My wheelchair costs more than a used car, and I'm entrusting it to the same people who routinely lose luggage on direct flights. In 2022 alone, 11,389 wheelchairs were mishandled by US airlines, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation February 2023 Air Travel Consumer Report.

But let's not forget my trusty sidekick, Pico. He's the Batman to my Robin, the peanut butter to my jelly, the...well, you get the idea. He's my rock, especially when turbulence hits and I'm clutching the armrests like I'm trying to strangle them. This is where the spasticity from CP can be extra fun.

Now, here's the good news. Delta Air Lines and Air 4 All are stepping up their game. They're developing a seat that allows us wheelchair users to stay in our chairs during the flight. Debuting on June 6 at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, this prototype has been a longtime coming. As PriestmanGoode director Daniel MacInnes told Insider, "Offering equal access to comfort, safety, and dignity for all passengers has always been our objective for Air 4 All."

This is a game-changer, folks. No more playing "Wheelchair Roulette". No more being transferred from chair to chair like a game of musical chairs. Just me, my wheelchair, and my trusty canine sidekick, cruising at 35,000 feet.

So, here's to Delta, Air 4 All, and all the wheelchair users who dream of flying comfortably. Keep flying high, my friends. And remember, the sky's the limit...unless you're in an airplane. Then it's more like 35,000 feet.

Share your thoughts, experiences, or your favorite airplane food (if such a thing exists) in the comments below. Let's get the conversation rolling!