Children's program therapy dog remembered for gentle nature: 7/27

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Children's program therapy dog remembered for gentle nature

Lola, a therapy dog for the Medically Fragile Children's Program, died July 7 at the age of 14. She worked at the Children's Hospital for seven years.

Lola and Sam Lola, an MUSC employee for seven years, gives a kiss to a patient. Lola died July 7.

According to Pat Votava, Children's Services Administration, Lola was sweet, kind and gentle. "I like to think that she is now wagging her tail with joy at being reunited with so many of the children she loved so much."

Lola started work at MUSC as the therapy dog for the Medically Fragile Children's Program (MFCP) in 2005. The physical, occupational and speech therapists at MFCP incorporated Lola into their therapy with the children, using her to encourage children to walk by walking Lola in the hall and to speak by calling her name.

Carol Perkins Rawle, owner of Harry Barker treats, donated a portion of the proceeds from biscuit sales to the MUSC therapy dog program.

She encouraged them with a wagging tail and could "speak" when they asked her to.

"As soon as Lola entered the Children's Hospital, her pace quickened and she pranced with a purpose," Votava said. "Lola was particularly close to the pediatric oncology patients and cystic fibrosis patients. One little boy with CF would only get out of bed to do his physical therapy if he could walk 'My Lola' in the hallway. Lola would often wear a birthday hat and visit children on their birthdays.

Lola and Pat Votava delivered Valentine's Day cards each year to children and staff.

The pediatric oncology's bulletin board featured photographs of the children and Lola titled, "Lola's Loves."
Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology director, Michelle Hudspeth, M.D., said Lola was an amazing dog. "Lola brightened some of the hardest days for our patients, not to mention improved the blood pressure of the staff!"
Isabel Virella–Lowell, M.D., Pediatrics, Children's Research Institute, said Lola was a wonderful friend to the CF family.

"We will miss her. She brought such joy and comfort to our children. The smiles she brought to their faces and the laughter she put in their hearts are priceless."

Friday, July 27, 2012

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