Drew Lynch is a well-known comedian, actor, and internet personality with a large following. However, what many people may not know is that he relies on a service dog for support and independence. This may come as a surprise to some, but for Drew, his service dog is an essential part of his life. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why Drew Lynch needs a service dog and explore the journey that led him to this point. We will also discuss the crucial role that service animals play in the lives of those who depend on them.
Why Does Drew Lynch Need a Service Dog?
Drew Lynch is a well-known comedian, Youtube personality, and actor. He rose to fame as a finalist on the 10th season of America’s Got Talent, where he charmed audiences with his quick wit, hilarious jokes, and lovable personality. However, what many people may not know about Drew is that he relies on the support and assistance of a service dog named Stella.
A Life-Changing Accident
In 2011, Drew was involved in a life-changing accident that left him with a severe stutter. He was just 19 years old at the time, and the accident completely altered the course of his life. Drew had always dreamed of becoming a comedian and had been performing stand-up since the age of 19. But after the accident, he struggled to speak coherently and his stutter made it nearly impossible for him to continue pursuing his dream career.
However, instead of letting this obstacle defeat him, Drew refused to give up and decided to use his stutter to his advantage. He started incorporating it into his stand-up routine, making it a part of his act. This unique approach paid off, and he soon gained a following for his relatable and humorous performances.
“I’ve always been someone who makes jokes when things get tough. So it wasn’t hard for me to transition to making jokes about stuttering,” Drew said in an interview.
The Importance of Service Animals
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Drew still faced several challenges in his daily life due to his stutter. He also experienced anxiety and social isolation, which made it difficult for him to navigate through everyday tasks without assistance. That’s when Drew discovered the benefits of having a service animal.
A service dog is specially trained to provide assistance and support to individuals with disabilities. They are often used by people with physical, neurological, or psychiatric conditions to help them with tasks that they may struggle with on their own. These dogs undergo rigorous training to develop skills such as retrieving items, opening doors, and alerting for medical emergencies.
For Drew, Stella has been a game-changer. Not only does she assist him with practical tasks, but she also provides emotional support and companionship. Having Stella by his side has given Drew the confidence and independence to continue pursuing his career and living his life to the fullest.
The Journey to Finding Stella
When Drew first started looking into getting a service dog, he faced many obstacles and challenges. He discovered that the process of obtaining a service animal was not only time-consuming but also incredibly expensive. The waiting list for a trained service dog can be months, if not years, long, and the costs can add up to tens of thousands of dollars.
Drew also struggled to find organizations that provided dogs trained to assist with stuttering specifically. Most organizations focus on training service animals for physical disabilities, and there are very few that train dogs for speech impairments. However, after months of research and perseverance, Drew finally found an organization that trained dogs for stuttering.
He then went through an extensive application process and had to prove that he qualified for a service dog. This included providing medical records, letters from physicians, and going through interviews. After getting approved, Drew finally received Stella, a black Labrador Retriever, in 2015.
The Impact of Stella on Drew’s Life
Stella has been a constant companion and support system for Drew, both on and off stage. She helps him with tasks such as retrieving water bottles, opening doors, and assisting with his luggage when traveling. More importantly, she has been a source of comfort and emotional support for Drew when he experiences anxiety or panic attacks.
Stella is not only a service dog but also a beloved family member. In an interview, Drew mentioned that Stella is more than just a dog to him – she is his therapist, best friend, and partner in crime.
Stella has also allowed Drew to feel more confident and independent. She often serves as a conversation starter for Drew, helping him navigate through social interactions and breaking the ice with strangers. With Stella by his side, Drew feels less self-conscious about his stutter and more comfortable being himself.
The Importance of Service Dog Awareness
Drew’s journey to finding Stella and experiencing the impact of a service dog has made him a strong advocate for service animals. He believes that more people should be aware of the benefits of having a service animal and the important role they play in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
“A lot of people ask me why I have a service dog since they can’t see any physical disability. But my response to that is, you can’t see my disability, but it’s still there,” Drew said in an interview.
Drew is also passionate about raising awareness for organizations that train service dogs for people with speech impairments. He knows firsthand the struggles and challenges individuals with disabilities face and how much a service animal can improve their quality of life.
In Conclusion
Drew Lynch’s inspiring journey has shown us the true value and importance of service animals. For Drew, Stella is more than just a service dog – she is his partner, his therapist, and his best friend. With her by his side, Drew has been able to overcome his struggles and continue pursuing his dreams.
Drew’s story also highlights the need for greater awareness and support for organizations that train service dogs for individuals with speech impairments. These animals play a vital role in improving the lives of people with disabilities, and it is essential to spread awareness about their importance.
Today, Drew continues to use his platform to advocate for service animal awareness and encourage others to support these organizations. With people like Drew raising awareness, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society for individuals with disabilities and their trusted service animals.
In conclusion, Drew Lynch’s reliance on a service dog is not just for physical support, but also for emotional and mental well-being. His journey of overcoming obstacles and embracing his disability has taught him the importance of having a service animal by his side. Not only do service dogs provide practical assistance, but they also offer companionship, independence, and a sense of purpose. As we continue to raise awareness and break stereotypes surrounding individuals with disabilities, it is important to recognize the significant role that service animals play in their lives. By supporting organizations that train and provide service animals, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those who truly need them, like Drew Lynch. Let us all remember the incredible bond between humans and animals and never underestimate the power of a service dog.