Decked out in her Merry Christmas tee and Jingle Bells collar, Cora and I arrived a little later than usual today at the Mayo. Our patient areas were beginning to fill with people for treatment in either radiation or chemo. Something was different though. Within minutes of our arrival, staff personal began to emerge one by one to voice their gratefulness for Cora's presence. The look of a stressful morning on their faces just melted away as Cora sat patiently accepting hug after hug. As we walked the hallway back to the patient area, Cora musically pranced by each doorway with her jingle bells announcing her presence to those still working at their desks. Smiling faces looked up from their computers as they shared a welcome break with us. This Caring Canine was not particular to whom she was bringing a little happiness - she just knew that they needed some TLC. This is a high-stress area to work in and I'm sure that it takes a great deal of both physical and mental stamina. The team effort there is enormous, but every team member has to come to the sidelines for a short timeout. It's great that Cora, as a Caring Canine, can be on the sidelines to bring just a few moments of laughter. Clearly, it revitalizes their spirits. I shared with them a picture of Cora with Santa. It now hangs in the area where team members sit for hours mapping out a treatment plan for the patients. "It will make me smile" our friend voiced. One dog, brings so many smiles now. It's contagious!