Day 358
We always love our time at Mercy Hospital. Ranger interacts with hundreds of people each time we enter those doors. He starts out strong, but after a couple of hours, he is ready to go home and recharge.
It is the same for his owner. Most days, I could outlast the Therapy Dog, but today was bit more of a challenge. By the time we arrived at home, we were both ready to sit down and watch a little Dog TV on cable!
We visited the usual haunts and Ranger led the way! Security, Administration, Surgical Waiting and the Credit Union were checked off and treats were plentiful! During our morning, we also visited a few floors and met some amazing, strong people who were fighting their individual battles. Both Ranger and I can "feel" who needs us most...and my pup delivers with that big head under the patient's hand or just resting his chin on their bed.
One of the dangers of being a Therapy Dog Team would be getting too close to those we visit. Realizing that a large portion of our visits are with seniors, it is possible to get your heart hurt due to sickness or loss. Many people would probably keep safe boundaries up for their mental well-being...but not me. I am the type of person who gets attached...really attached.
So, when one of our favorites had to take his "bride" to the hospital, we were there to support him in any way we could. Seeing as I have known the husband for over 50 years, there has been a real change in the dynamics in our relationship.
The husband was one of my teachers at Anoka High School and I remember those years like they were yesterday. He was tough, fair and demanding to get what he wanted out of us AND from us. Frankly, I was absolutely intimidated by him! After graduation, I didn't think I would ever see him again.
However, about four years ago, I knocked on a door at the Walker Residence and guess who opened the door! Riddled with health issues and in need of a walker, he still made me stand at attention as I reintroduced myself.
Over the last few years, I have become closer and closer to this pair of octogenarians. If they needed a ride, a favor or an extra visit, I was right there. Mac came on board as well and Ranger and Lilly love and trust them both.
If you had told me back in the 1970's that my 17-year-old self would be friends with that teacher, I would have responded with, "That is not AT ALL possible!" How wrong I would have been!
I now see though his gruff exterior to a heart of gold. We care deeply about each other and are becoming the family they don't have. It is an honor.
Today, I made a few return visits to his wife's room to check on her status. The last time I approached the doorway, I saw him holding her hand and asking her to wake up. When Ranger and I walked in, he said, "Where did she go? Where is my sweet wife?" Fighting tears, I grabbed her other hand and told him it must be the medicine she is on. I encouraged him to think she just might return. Knowing her feisty personality, it wouldn't surprise me at all!
When you are part of a Therapy Dog Team, most of the time, you don't get extremely close to those you visit. Sometimes, however, your relationship grows and thrives until you actually grow to love them. That is the situation here.
It's hard to watch, but wonderful to help. My teacher knows I am here and would do pretty much anything for him. That is a source of comfort for us both.
Today, I touched his arm and told him what a gift his friendship is to me. He admitted that he felt the same way. What a difference 50 years can make!
As for Ranger, he fell asleep before his head hit the floor when we got home. I reached down and scratched those big red ears and said, "Well done, Old Boy...well done."
The moral of this day for me would be that you never know where a relationship can flow. Always keep an open mind and heart! I am so glad to have met this man 50 years ago and even happier that I can now call him friend.
