Asher’s Actions By Asher Comfort Dog
In November, I had 18 days when I made one or two visits. These visits focused on the goal for the ministry, that is, reaching out to many people to give them comfort and a smile.
For the community, I continued to visit the senior residential facility called Radford Green. I also returned to another very special place; the Reach Center for helping adults with severe disabilities. I met with a small group, about 8 adults. This time, there were two counselors in the group. They were getting as much out of petting me as the adult clients were having. This was a particularly happy visit.
Then, we visited the Lovell /VA Medical Center in North Chicago. I was happy to get back to the VA. Many veterans were happy to see me again. They tell us about some of their military experiences, which were outstanding. We again a patient named Stephen. He is a VietNam veteran and had a major role to play concerning the logistical part of the war. This time we talked about his vocation after leaving Viet Nam. He has been in the entertainment business. His wife arranges singing and dancing contracts. He might even come to our church. However, I again just laid on the floor and relaxed while all the talk went on for a long time. We had a chance to wish the Lord’s blessings on Stephan.
Then, we walked over to the ICU unit. Again, the nurses in the unit were very happy to see me. I didn’t visit patients, but the staff spent lots of time petting me.
As the school year was starting again, I returned to the Forrestal School in North Chicago. Last year, I regularly visited this school, which is near the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. The teachers and kids were happy to see me. We also began visiting the Neal School in North Chicago.
On other days of the month, there was a series of special events:
- Two- day handler training course for my new handler, Marcia Friesen
- Memorial service for comfort dog Levi
- Veterans day service with Congressman Brad Schneider at CLC
- Special veteran presentation about current emotional problems
- Distribution of Thanksgiving Baskets in North Chicago
- Redeemer Lutheran, Waukegan, to visit Navy Cadets invited to have Thanksgiving Dinner
- Special meeting with No. Chicago City Council about our golf outing
- Christmas Lighting ceremony at North Chicago
- Special meeting with No. Chicago Public School Authority about our golf outing
Praise the Lord for all of these opportunities to serve people in His Name.
Be in touch. Peace.
Asher