A Simple Idea Has a Huge Impact

How do we reach our most vulnerable populations when COVID-19 prevents Pet Therapy teams from visiting?

Therapaws Pet Therapy team member, Tricia Eastmond, had an idea.

Tricia and her therapy dog, Heidi, a Golden Retriever, loved visiting residents of senior living and memory care facilities. She also loved to write. So by combining the two passions, she created, “The Adventures of Heidi,” a fun account of Heidi’s antics to share with residents, patients and hospital staff.

Since April, Tricia has been writing several letters a month to our elder care facilities, RML hospital and staff, St, Thomas Hospice and Rogers Behavioral Health. Heidi would “tell” her story - from her puppy days to exploring her world to her birthday party with a liver cake!

The letters have exceeded expectations.

“Our residents LOVED the letter! They each received a copy. Thanks soooo much!” - Lombard Place Assisted Living

“I shared the Heidi birthday letter with our hospice staff last month and they loved it!  They really appreciated it and it brought us all smiles. The letters are wonderful!” - AMITA Health St. Thomas Hospice

“Thank you for the words and pictures, they do cheer up the residents.” - The Birches Assisted Living

Heidi and Tricia may not be able to visit, but they continue to touch hearts.