Welcome Friends!

Like so many things right now, including how we deliver dog therapy visits, our fundraising efforts are also virtual. 

In a few weeks, Wrigley and I will be participating in (an entirely virtual) Walk and Play LA event again to raise money for the incredible Dog Therapy Program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.  After more than ten years of dog therapy visits logged with two wonderful dogs (Elsie first, then Wrigley) I am so proud of this program which support tens of thousands of patients, family members, and hard-working staff every year.  At CHLA, specially trained therapy dogs spend one-on-one time with more than 1400 patients every month. Dogs visit at the bedside in nearly every unit, assist in therapy sessions, distract in waiting rooms and offer calming companionship during long treatments. The dogs and their owners are all volunteers, and the program is funded entirely through donations.  Currently, the entire program is operating virtually to maintain support for patients, their families, and the hardworking hospital staff.  Patients now receive a knock at the door and an invitation to meet some therapy dogs -- who are waiting on an iPad.  Each youngster can still have a personalized visit and develop a bond with a friendly, accepting furry friend.   If you haven't seen it, here's a sweet peek inside just one visit.  https://www.facebook.com/ChildrensLA/videos/1080879422284467/

More children receive care from CHLA than any other hospital in the region—and often CHLA comes to the rescue for children when other hospitals run out of medical options for their care.  In addition to providing world-class medical care, CHLA prioritizes family-centric care and a child-friendly hospital experience.  The Dog Therapy Program is a big part of this effort.

Dog therapy visits make the hospital a more welcoming, less frightening environment.  They offer emotional and social support.  And there are documented physical benefits too.  Research shows that dog visits can help to lower blood pressure, decrease levels of stress hormones, calm heart and respiratory rates, increase mood-boosting endorphins, and profoundly affect a patient's experience with pain. Perhaps even more importantly, dog therapy provides the opportunity for happy moments and positive memories during what is often a difficult time.

I'm captaining a team to draw attention to and raise money for this terrific program, and there are many ways you can help:

•Donate to my Page to help me reach my fundraising goal -- $2020 for the Dog Therapy Program in 2020!

•Join Team Paws for a Cause and create your own fundraising page for Walk and Play LA!

•Share our team fundraising page and help spread the word: http://connect.chla.org/goto/Paws4Cause

I hope you’ll join me at the walk and/or help support my fundraising efforts with a donation to Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Your tax-deductible gift will make a difference in the lives of many young patients and their families. Any amount, great or small, will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

Kate