Day 981

500 VISITS for our Ranger!

We were invited to Unity Hospital for a celebration to honor our boy! He received gifts, treats and so much love. It was the perfect way to thank him for making a difference!

As I allow my mind and heart to embrace some of the most special moments during his visits, a few stand out above the rest. The memory that stands out happened a few years ago…

Visiting a dying patient in the Intensive Care Unit, we had a dilemma. The patient had multitudes of wires and tubes attached everywhere with no easy access to his hands. He was awake, agitated and desperate to get close to the big dog and touch Ranger. On a wing and a prayer, we enticed Ranger up onto a rolling chair and approached the bed. For the next twenty minutes, the patient and the Golden had a meaningful, beautiful time together. It was as if nobody else was in the room…just a man and a dog connecting with love. A few days later, when we were volunteering, a nurse approached and told us, “The patient passed away the next morning after your visit. Everyone who entered that room heard about the big dog who snuggled in and made everything happier… the story was repeated over and over until he passed. Ranger helped that man more than he will ever know.” To witness Ranger’s impact that day will be part of my heart forever.

He has made people laugh, licked away their tears, delighted everyone in his path and lightened so many hearts. It has been such an honor to be at the other end of his leash for over ten years! He is a gift to so many, but especially to me! Congratulations, Ranger!!! You make this world a better place!