Nothing has given me a better feeling than when I see someone’s face light up with joy or share a hug with someone. I love knowing that I’ve made a difference in their lives, especially during a difficult time.

While I have so many wonderful memories, one that sticks out to me is when my Hazard teammates, Kelli Callihan and Amy Gabbard, took me to the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital to support staff during the pandemic. Everyone got excited when they saw me, and I enjoyed all the pats and smiles. One nurse ran up to me, got on her knees and hugged me. Sometimes there are no words, so I just snuggled her while she cried and tried to carry some of her sadness by licking the tears off her face.  Kelli told me on the drive home that she was in awe of me. I’m not sure what that means, but since she gave me a treat, I know she was proud.

One family in our Hospice Care Center told me that I had given their mom her only smile since her husband passed away. It warms my heart to know I’ve lightened someone’s load and made their day a little bit better.

Whitney Clay, my integrative medicine program coordinator, offered me these sweet retirement wishes:

“Thank you for bringing such a kind, gentle spirit to us over a really difficult time. You were a rockstar in puppy training, and you are a teacher and an amazing therapist. Thank you for the lives that you touched, including my own, and for all that you taught us. I hope that the rest of your days are spent with folks loving on you and giving you as much care as you have given to all of us.”

Hearing those kind words is even better than peanut butter and bacon! (Well, almost!) I will miss everyone, but I’m looking forward to catching up on my sleep, taking long walks and playing outside.