Dear Friend Betty had surgery today.  She fell and broke her neck. (Yes, her NECK, and it was a bad break!  Terrible – Just terrible.)  The doctors had to use screws to stabilize the vertebrae.  The wait in the waiting room was long, long, l-o-o-o-n-g.  – I thought the surgery would never end.

Aside from the surgery being successful (Yea!), the highlight of the day was Amelia, a therapy dog.  I thought therapy dogs were only for patients, but I am hear to tell you – Amelia was wonderful therapy for me today.  I admit it.  I was worried.  I was stressed-out, and the wait was long.   Petting Amelia was calming, comforting, and therapeutic.  I was so glad Amalia volunteered today.

Sweet Mother of Pearl.  Amelia is beautiful.  She has golden soft silky fur, big floppy ears, bright eyes, and a smile that will melt your heart.

As you can see, she has her own official Baylor volunteer badge.  There are strict guidelines for therapy dogs.  First, Amelia had to be accepted into the Baylor therapy program.  Each time she volunteers, she has to go to the groomer.  She must have a bath before she volunteers.  We had to use hand sanitizer before we were allowed to pet her.

Amelia was so regal and polite.  Petting her was soothing.  She nestled her head in my hands while I stroked her silky fur.  She loved to be scratched behind those big floppy ears.

After I started taking pictures, Amelia started showing off.  Her owner mentioned that Amelia could do tricks – and tricks she could do.  Here she was waving.

I think she loves to wave because she did it for quite some time.  Amazing!

Amelia lay down.   Her owner pointed a finger at her and “shot” her. (Poor baby.)

Be still my heart.  Amelia played dead.  Look.  She kept that position even when the leash was on the floor.  Amelia is one smart dog!  For this trick, she was given a well deserved treat.  Honestly, I think Amelia could be in the movies.

Then it was time to say good-bye to Amelia.  I must say – Amelia was excellent therapy for weary worried me as I sat in the surgery waiting room.

I hope Betty will get to meet Amelia.

Blessings to you and yours,

Please remember to pray for Dear Friend Betty.  It will take her many days – maybe months – to recuperate from this surgery.