One of the most challenging times in life occurs when we must bid farewell indefinitely to the individual we cherish the most. For every dog, its universe centers around its beloved human, yet there inevitably arrives the moment for the ultimate farewell.
A lovely 9-year-old Husky named Gaia experienced her happiest days with Sandra, her 80-year-old caregiver, and could hardly envision existence without her.
However, everything shifted one day when Sandra was admitted to the hospital because of her declining health, leaving Gaia alone in their long-term residence in Dallas, Texas.
From that instant, nothing transformed in this dog’s existence.
One Miracle Walk
In the initial days following her owner’s hospitalization, despair and isolation filled Gaia’s eyes. Just as she began to lose faith that she would ever receive a warm human embrace, a kind soul appeared in front of her small backyard.
Sandra’s neighbor, Lisa Kanarek, was strolling past the house in Dallas, Texas, and couldn’t ignore the forlorn look on the canine’s face. That day, she decided to take Gaia out for a walk to soothe her spirits.
However, the two quickly bonded, leading to more than a single outing as they continued to spend time together over the subsequent three weeks. Then, Lisa received a call from Sandra’s close friend, Gilda Levy, which transformed everything.
“Two weeks prior to Sandra [passing away], [Levy] mentioned, ‘I don’t know if you’ve considered this, but would you like to adopt her?’” Lisa shared with CBS News. Understanding what was likely to ensue, Lisa couldn’t decline this proposition.
When that heart-wrenching moment arrived, Sandra’s home stood empty. Moments before, Lisa had arrived for Gaia, attached her leash, and led her toward a fresh start.
Her New Life Mission
Countless walks with Lisa served as a genuine therapy for Gaia’s spirit and a means to alleviate her heartache. She particularly loved being around children she encountered, and Lisa observed that this dog also acted as a form of therapy for them.
This inspired her to apply for a formal therapy program, which they successfully completed together. On her inaugural day at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Gaia demonstrated that she was destined for this admirable role.
She rapidly captured the affection of numerous children at the center. An 18-year-old patient named Brooklyn could hardly conceal his joy, declaring: “Dogs are, like, the best thing that ever happened to me, like, in this hospital.”
But, this tale didn’t conclude here. While Gaia’s previous owner, Sandra, was still in the hospital, Lisa was pursuing her training as an end-of-life doula. This led her to embark on a new journey with Gaia.
Lisa recognized that Gaia was an exceptional therapy dog for children, but she believed this dog could also offer the same depth of love and care in a different form of therapy: hospice.
After several days working with the terminally ill, Lisa’s hypothesis was validated – Gaia’s uplifting energy and gentle demeanor were healing even for the most broken spirits.
Providing assistance to those in dire need has become this extraordinary dog’s life purpose.
Honoring Her Memory
Following her heart-wrenching experience, Gaia’s life transformed entirely. She became the most joyful dog, discovering a greater purpose. Yet, what renders this narrative even more remarkable is that Gaia has enriched the lives of many others, especially that of her new caregiver.
Feeling immensely thankful to have her, Lisa even opted to compose an essay about her journey with Gaia, which was published by the Washington Post:
“Gaia’s life transformed when she became part of our family. She interacts with the kids in our neighborhood (her fan club) during our strolls, and she brings joy and lightness to unwell children, all while wagging her tail. She accompanies us on road excursions and to outdoor events where she anticipates people will pause to pet her fluffy back or ask her for a high-five.
“My life has changed too. Meeting countless individuals during our visits has revived the extroverted side I lost during the pandemic. Before I knock on each patient’s door, I take a deep breath, then confidently greet families, well aware of the smiles my companion inspires. …”
“As we navigate the hallways of the children’s hospital, I remember Sandra and hope she’s smiling, knowing how much joy Gaia spreads to all she encounters.”
As she recited these touching sentiments in her conversation with CBS News, Lisa struggled to contain her tears. Yet, her feelings peaked when she reminisced about the late Sandra.
“I cannot say. It’s simply the awareness of Gaia’s impact on others. It brings me joy; it brings me sorrow, for I wish I had known Sandra more intimately, but I believe this is my way of helping to honor her memory,” she expressed at the conclusion.
Rest assured, Lisa. Gaia is the treasure left by Sandra in this world, and she will remain in her heart until the last broken spirit she heals.