Gilda Is Official!

Yesterday we met with Janet at the hospital for our final mentoring session! Gilda was visibly more relaxed but still vigilant. While still uncomfortable, she was willing to get on and off of the elevator each time.

After signing in at the Volunteer Office, we set off for the 7th floor to visit a 4 year old on the 'Special Request' list. Gilda did well during the visit and was able to visit another child on the floor.

We had 2 visits on the 8th floor even helping to quiet a young patient who was crying about taking medicine. The sight of a dog outside her doorway seemed to make her more willing to cooperate in effort to get a better look at Gilda! The second patient was a 6 or 7 year-old boy who was lying on his belly in bed. He happily chatted away about his pet cats and then asked if we could bring Gilda to his house to meet them! (I explained that his cats probably wouldn't appreciate being herded).

In an effort not to overstimulate her, we took Gilda to a sitting area where she put herself in a down position and was relaxed. 3 'tween' boys came from the elevator and spent some time petting and interacting with her. Gilda remained facing them and interested for the entire visit which made me wonder if a visit to 8100 might be more her speed after all.

Gilda really did well and it's my hope that she gets more comfortable with each visit.

I am excited to get some visits scheduled and working toward building Gilda's confidence while in the hospital. WTG Gilda on a huge dog accomplishment!!!