Making the Connection
Our volunteer coordinator shares a near perfect moment.
Ruth Trueman

June 18, 2008

Dolphin (Image by Brown Trout Calendars)

Debbie,

On a run last week, my partner and I came across a patient room we were not permitted to enter. A notice on the door clearly said: No entrance. Doctors and Nurses only.

We hesitated, then continued with our visits to the other patients. As we came to the end of our time on the unit, a charming man, of Italian heritage, approached us. He told us he was most enthusiastic about our program, but hastened to add that he thought the images in his daughter’s room were making her sad. How could this have happened, we wondered? How did we miss this? The explanation followed. With his help, we made two more suitable selections from our cart and were guided back to the very room that earlier had been closed to us.

There we met his wife and daughter, a frail young woman, but one who was, nonetheless, very engaged in the process of choosing the images she wanted for her walls. Up went the pictures – one of a dolphin, another of a polar bear cub nestled in the snow. Everyone was thrilled!

Inspired by this response, we went in search of one more image – of Vernazza, Italy. Gingerly knocking at the door, so as not to intrude, we offered this third one to the family. Up it went! There was much appreciation, including kisses and hugs for everyone. I was so moved I could not help but express to the family what I have always felt about the healing benefits of Art à la Carte. When we, as providers of the program, manage to hang the right images for the right patient, under such sensitive circumstances, the experience is unforgettable, and concerns and worries are, for the time being at least, dashed away. It was, for all of us, a near perfect moment.

I wanted to tell you that many spirits took flight that afternoon, knowing we assisted in bringing a measure of comfort to a close and devoted family.