Hi, our names are Gabby Janecko and Olivia Nowak. I, Gabby, am a volunteer at the Ascension St. Alexius hospital in Hoffman Estates. Generous donors have raised enough money to bring a therapy dog, named Link, to the hospital to support not only patients, but staff and volunteers as well. In times of emotional/physical distress, a visit from a furry, four-legged friend can reduce anxiety, fear and frustration. In order for Link to thrive at St. Alexius, we need your help with his on-going annual costs. The $5,000 we are hoping to raise will be distributed for pet insurance, special food, vet visits, vaccinations, and grooming. “In these past few years, our physicians and healthcare workers have gone through so much,” said Physicians Council Co-Chair Rema Johnson, DO, who practices emergency medicine and is the Assistant Medical Director of the Ascension Saint Alexius Emergency Department. “The 115 physicians on our Physicians Council voted unanimously to fund a grant to pay for our hospital dog because we saw the vast need for emotional support that he will provide to our patients and staff. We are excited to have Link here to boost our patients’ spirits and clinical team’s morale, and to encourage us in the important work we do for our communities.” Link also will be an essential part of the child life team, helping children meet medical goals such as taking medication on schedule and by mouth as needed. He will also assist with tasks that may be stressful or anxiety-provoking for hospitalized children, such as needle pokes, vital sign taking, and changing into a hospital gown. The funds that we raise will be donated directly to the Ascension St. Alexius hospital. We are grateful for any donations, and we thank you for helping.
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