ANYWAY, you will see below the amusing photos of me and my work and my large afternoon snack...just like I was saying yesterday! Inspired by Blondie, 30 some years ago.....but first, let me tell you these things:
We may be rejected for many reasons, but Penny and I are possibly moving along as therapy dog and person. YES, we will continue to visit the senior living center each week as we have for months. BUT we may also undergo training in hospicare. Hospice, as you know, is managing end of life issues for terminally ill patients. People who are in pain and can't really go anywhere. Last night I began what might be a long amount of training, which will include Penny, in hospicare. Or we will not make it into the program (Penny is super sweet, but not obedient or intelligent....HOWEVER, she is a champion cuddler and that is what is most needed...I mean, she sees a bed and she doesn't hesitate to jump in!)
So, basically, what is it like to work in hospicare? The team leader talks about it being very different from anything he ever thought it would be. If I think about it, I suppose I would be scared and nervous, but I am not. I am excited and I hope I am accepted. How can we appreciate life if we don't face death?
Gary, you are a jewel. I hope you make it. I think you would be a great asset if for nothing other than your great attitude (oh and your cuddly cute beagle).
ReplyDeleteGary, I'd take cuddly over smart any day. When my neighbor was in her last weeks, her little dog Koko would always bring a smile. They let us bring him in once a week.
ReplyDeleteYour smile alone will help, but your smile with Penny...priceless.
ALBU
It sounds like Penny is really smart, she gets to cuddle in beds and doesn't have to do tricks for it. It's really wonderful of you to do this with her. I'm certain the recipients appreciate it very, very much.
ReplyDeletei love your monsters that ate tthe cars that ate paris!!! you are awesome G3
ReplyDeleteYou will come away with so much if you and Penny get into this program! JZ had hospice care at home during the last 6 weeks of his life. It is a tremendous support. Our cat Sophie gave him such comfort during that time. Penny will do the same for hospice patients.
ReplyDeleteHospice allows people to face death with dignity and without fear. After my experience I am no longer afraid of dying.
Best wishes, you two are perfect for the job.
Great eating car photo!
ReplyDeleteWe were watching a Blondie music video the other week and decided that Rapture was a very early rap song. Embryonic rap we declared and applauded her performance.
((hugs)) to you all.
ReplyDeletehope you both succeed
ps. mountain man didn't want anyone to know he was ill, so never got treatment, so when he did get to hospital he was too ill to go to the local hospice. Where you don't get to stay more than a week as space is short......
ReplyDeleteHe would have loved a visiting Penny.
You have heart, Gary. ♥
ReplyDeleteMy mom often didn't want anything touching her those last few months. Her poor cat was so confused... It's good for me to read here that there are people who are comforted by pets during their final days. It makes me think that perhaps her issues (mom's, not the cat's!) had to do with denial of pain.