What It Really Means to Advocate for Disability Rights And Why I Keep Showing Up

Ryan and Canine Companions Lovey pose for a photo. Ryan is wearing a white shirt and jeans. He leans against Lovey who is staring straight ahead wearing her working vest.

I don’t always enjoy talking about myself, but when I do, I make sure it’s honest.

Grateful to be featured in the latest issue of WE ROAR Magazine™, where I got the chance to reflect on access, advocacy, and the quiet power of showing up (with Canine Companions® Lovey, of course).

Huge thanks to Kassandra Ayala-Najera, Jennifer Cairns and the entire WE ROAR team for the space to share my story—not just the polished wins, but the hard-won perspective that comes from navigating the world as a disabled advocate.

If you’ve ever wondered what keeps me in this work—or what it costs—this is a pretty good place to start.

Check out issue 10 here:

Access Isn’t Extra: What It’s Really Like Navigating Seattle with a Service Dog

Canine Companions Lovey holds a pair of socks in her mouth while staring directly into the camera.

New city, same fight.

Over Labor Day weekend, my girlfriend and I went to see a comedy show at The Crocodile Seattle. It was supposed to be a chill date night. Instead, the guy at the door gave us side-eye and told us:

“We don’t allow dogs.”

I told him: Lovey is a service dog.
He said: “Doesn’t matter.”

It did matter. Legally. Ethically. Logically.
We asked for the manager.

She got it instantly. She saw Lovey’s Canine Companions® vest, smiled, and walked us to our seats. But the same staffer who initially denied us entry? He made sure we knew we weren’t welcome, even after being corrected.

That look in his eye—the disdain for being told he was wrong—that’s going to live in my body for a while.

Here’s the thing:

I wasn’t asking for VIP treatment. I wasn’t trying to make a scene. I just wanted to enjoy a show with my partner and my trained, federally protected access partner by my side.

But access wasn’t given.
It had to be won. Again.

This past month, I’ve:

• Been denied indoor seating at restaurants
• Had packages repeatedly misdelivered because Amazon drivers ignore access notes
• Been told “I don’t think I can do that” after requesting a door opener at Starbucks
• And had groceries dropped off at the wrong building by an Instacart driver who refused to admit it—then told me to “contact support”

Each one of these things on their own might seem like no big deal.
But they’re not one-offs.

They’re the tax we pay for needing access.

They’re the emotional labor of having to fight—calmly, constantly—for the right to participate.

And even then, we’re expected to smile.

Not get too loud.
Not push too hard.
Because “everyone’s doing their best,” right?

Except we’re paying for services that don’t serve us.
We’re doing the work of fixing the broken systems we didn’t break.

My girlfriend, who’s lived in Seattle her whole life, looked at me after all of this and said:

“I feel embarrassed for my city.”

Let me say this clearly:
Access is dignity.
Access is a right.
Disabled people deserve to exist without making everything a fight.

And since it’s National Service Dog Month, let me also say: Lovey isn’t a pet. She’s not optional. She’s not “extra.” She’s a trained, working professional who helps me live. And her presence doesn’t make me inspirational. It makes me able to participate.

I’m not fighting because I enjoy the fight.
I’m fighting so I can stop fighting.

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.