For the Veterans at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Memorial Day is not a holiday for sales or a trip to the shore. It is a time to
reflect on past service and lost friends. It is a time for family members to
visit and listen to stories from “the good old days!”
Wondering the halls of the VA I encounter many family
members as they visit their loved ones. Many are regulars so they are used to
seeing a therapy dog on the hospital grounds. But for the newly admitted
patients and their family members it is definitely a head turner to see a dog
in their vicinity. If they are an animal lover, a big smile will appear on their
face.
This past week I learned of a passing of one of our regulars
Maggie and I had visited for quite a number of years. Although somewhat of a
shock we had not seen him in some time as he had fulfilled his wish and was
discharged and spent his remaining time in the comfort of his home.
I view the VA hospital as a small city. Each room can be
seen as an apartment or a condo so everyone has the opportunity to get to know
one another. I’m sure when the residents see one of their neighbors being
discharged they are happy for them. But when the news of their untimely death
reaches them, this must be a blow. The next question that enters their minds
must be when is it my turn?
My hope is that by bringing Maggie in for a visit I am able
to distract them and even give them a little happiness now and again.
To all the Veterans- Thank you for your service!
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