Adina Gordon and her Jamie.

Heres me and Jamie's story:
When I first joined Share-a-Pet, I only thought of it as a great community service project where I could share my dog with others, never dreaming that it would have an impact on my own life. The first day we went to the Edge Water Assistant Living
Center, I had no idea of how much suffering these elderly people go through and it was hard to deal with. As I came to one woman, depressed and almost lifeless, I was unsure of what to say or do. But I found that my lovable dog, Jamie, forged a
spark in her that made both of us at ease. As I watched the joy in her eyes begin to form and the happiness in her come back to life, I began to see how important this was for her, and for me. She began to talk and tell me of the dogs she once had
and of her life. Some of the stories might have been made up and some might have been real but the important thing was that she suddenly had such hope and bliss from what my dog and I had given her. As I went on to other people, I watched as
miracles occurred as they smiled at Jamie and talked to me about my dog. Now I get the chance to see miracles happen every week and I am proud to say that Jamie makes them happen. Although these people have already experienced their life and are now
waiting for it to be over, Jamie and I give them happiness and the chance to reminisce about their past pets. As we go from room to room, I try to take in all of their pictures of the past and all of their memories. I think that it is important to
remember each one of these people for I am sure they have all done something amazing in their lives worth remembering. I see models, dancers, philosophers, and parents. I see hope, regret, happiness, and tranquility. As each different person feels
my puppy’s fur, I think that they remember who they are, and I remember right along with them. And then I realize: this isn’t just therapy for them, this is therapy for me. Because in each person Jamie and I learn about the importance of accepting,
remembering, and living.
- adina gordon