Magic Day at Mayo!

Visiting with Staff

Cora had a very busy day yesterday back at Mayo Speciality Building.  The staff was happy to engage her piano and singing talent and of course give lots of hugs.  Cora's "baritone" voice could be heard throughout the department, amidst the laughter and applause!  We met a lot of new faces, eager to find out exactly what Cora's job was there at Mayo.  One in particular was a husband and his wife.  She told me that she was a "dog lover" and loved the idea of Therapy dogs in the waiting area.  As she was petting Cora and looking down at her face, we began a conversation about how caregivers are in need of some stress relief.  Cora gladly provided that for this woman who was waiting for her spouse to finish with his treatment.  When he came out into the area with us, he stood with his hands in his pockets, eyeing Cora but making no move towards her.  Cora who had been resting comfortably at the feet of his wife, sat up and stared at him just waiting for his recognition.  "I don't like dogs", he stated.  With that Cora gave a "wave" with her paw towards him.   He grinned and smiled just for a second.  But in that split second, there was a moment of happiness.  I asked him to put his hands by his side, which he willing did, and instantly Cora laid beneath his feet.  "Hmmm, I might pet this one"!  His wife smiled and as they proceeded to walk out of the area, she turned and whispered "Thank You".  A little bit of Cora's magic!

Caring Canine Cora provides comfort.

We met one of our regular friends existing the building.  A strong and courageous young man that Cora has formed a definite bond. We chatted as she backed up into the chair area for him to pet her. Seemed that he was an inpatient now and this was his first day he was allowed down into the lobby area.  He talked about missing his dogs at home, but was glad that he got his "dog fix" with Cora's visit.  Small things make a big impact working as a Therapy Dog team.  Never overlook what seems to be a minor act, it's clearly a major part of someones day.
Back home Cora was ready for some R&R with her new "Mr Turtle" that she quickly picked up and brought to her bed.  Even Cora needs that special magic!

R&R after Visit at Mayo