Magical Miracle Moment 

A favorite time of mine to do pet therapy is on Christmas Day! I generally ask staff at the facility if any patients in particular would enjoy a visit from Nika, my 10-year-old Samoyed dog. We entered Beryl’s room, finding her in an unusually subdued mood, and not responding to prompting questions and comments. We knew our 109-year-old friend was struggling. Nika patiently waited for recognition, as if wondering why one of her favorite people to visit was so sad. Her room was filled with many precious mementos from Beryl’s family members’ and friends,’ demonstrating their obvious affection. This lovely lady in past visits, has always proven to be cheerful, oriented, and glad to see Nika, but not this time on Christmas Day.   

Visitors the day before, or possibly yet to arrive today were not there at that moment. Tears welled up as she said, “I thought maybe at least one of my grandchildren would be here to visit me on Christmas.” With that said, Beryl reached out for Nika, tenderly petting and hugging her for comfort. No words I could have spoken would have been as consoling as the unconditional love Nika generously gave, just by being present. I knew then, and will always remember, this was a magical moment, experiencing true joy on this Christmas Day! 

Nika and I continue to visit this very special lady, and continue building a bond that Beryl and Nika will always have. As with many other visits as a pet therapy team, the pure innocence of a dog’s presence brings joy and provides many theopportunity to soften their hearts and share moments of comfort and joy. 

 Margaret Solle, Wyoming, MI