Hospice News
It’s
Rained Katz and Dogs
 |
| Border Collie Izzy, subject of
the New York Times bestseller Izzy and
Lenore: Two Dogs, an Unexpected Journey, and Me,
by Jon Katz (Random House, September 2008) |
On Thursday, October 16, nearly 80 people gathered
in the Islami Auditorium at Saint Barnabas Medical Center
to meet New York Times bestselling author,
Jon Katz, and his hospice therapy dog, Izzy. Guests
enjoyed a “meet and greet” with the author, in
addition to one-on-one time with the Izzy, a very special
Border Collie. The event, hosted by the Saint Barnabas Hospice
and Palliative Care Center (SBHPCC), was held to showcase
Katz’s latest release, Izzy and Lenore: Two Dogs,
an Unexpected Journey, and Me (Random House, September
2008).
Katz was warmly received by the audience as
they listened to the story of how he and Izzy met, more than
two years ago, on a farm where Izzy had been abandoned. Katz
explained the struggles encountered as the two bonded and
Izzy acclimated to living in a house, and with a human being.
Among the most moving moments of the evening were Katz’s
stories of the profound experiences he and Izzy have had
working together as hospice volunteers, and the ways in which
Izzy is able to bring peace and comfort to the patients at
the end of life.
Spiro Ballas, Senior Volunteer Coordinator,
SBHPCC, has witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact volunteers
and therapy animals have on both patients and families. “The
connections animals, particularly dogs, make with patients
are indescribable. The unconditional love animals show,
their ability to “listen” with intent and their
unwavering devotion can elicit a renewed sense of spirit
and energy in those facing advanced illness.”
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