Please Note: The dog in the accompanying photograph is the subject of the story, but any persons shown are probably not those in the story.
Mudslide loves her volunteer job! She starts working the moment she jumps out of the car, greeting patients and visitors as they leave the hospital. Once inside, her first stop is the reception desk, where the Tuesday ladies greet her enthusiastically. No favorites for Mudslide—she spends time with each one! Next, we head to the volunteer office. While I check in, she catches up with any volunteers present and scans the floor for crumbs. It’s a good thing we arrive early!
Our day officially begins as we board the elevator and head to our first stop—the third floor. The OBGYN wing has become one of our favorites. The nurses there enjoy the change of routine, and Mudslide starts trotting as soon as we’re let in. This is likely where she’ll do her first flop onto her back, asking for a belly rub!
In the spring, we met E, who had been admitted with a pregnancy at just twenty-seven weeks. Thanks to the marvelous staff, modern technology, and the support of family and friends, her baby stayed in the womb for seven more weeks. Mudslide and I visited her weekly (and once on a Saturday so we could meet the father and sister). E appreciated the visits, especially since she had recently said goodbye to her senior dog.
"Getting to know you and sweet Mudslide helped me through one of the hardest moments in my life. I'll never forget you both!"
