"Family" Is Our Favorite Word
"Family" is our favorite word here at BARCS. Recently, we received this letter from a gentleman we helped to reunite with his beloved cat. Here is his story in his own words...
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Hello, BARCS!
I am a healthcare provider at Johns Hopkins Hospital. I had retired, but volunteered to come back due to the COVID-19 crisis. I’m working rigorous hours: 12 hours a day, seven days a week to combat the virus in addition to the seven new variant mutations that have recently surfaced. The past year has been full of uncertain times and challenges, and although a lot of things are different now these days and we’re beginning to finally figure it all out, we cannot ever, ever let any crisis diminish the loving human spirit we have for one another as well as for our pets.
On Thursday, November 19 at 11:30am, I surrendered my best feline friend in the world, Boots, thinking my 15-year-old partners’ life was coming to an end. Emotional buttons were tapped when I handed him over to Sam, and I told her about how loyal, loving and caring he had been. He never snapped, fussed or argued—he only showed compassion and sympathy when I needed it the most… and he always answered with the wink of his eye.
Without Boots in my life, dark clouds hung over my home. That is, until I received a call from Brianna that Boots had taken a huge turn for the better and asked would I accept him back into our fold. I didn’t hesitate.
On Thursday, December 10 at 11am, I picked up Boots, and our great bond and relationship was rekindled inside the car. He was even glad to see my two dogs, Rocky and Popeye! But just as important as this reunion, I met a team of Healthcare Heroes that demonstrated the meaning of professionalism at its highest form. Lisa and Briana, whom I had never met before, were top tier gatekeepers in communicating with me about my feline friend. An Honorable Mention also goes out to veterinarian Dr. Morgan, whose behind the scenes caring hands and approach will never be forgotten and is forever etched in the four chambers of my heart.
Staff members Sam and Jessie weren’t unnoticed; they were impeccable at the front door and their inviting smiles led me to believe that Boots was in good hands. Dana showcased her expertise in presenting the remaining medications that I would administer to Boots once he was home. She also created a wonderful comfort zone, as we talked about our pets.
What was exhibited that day was exclusively “Five Star Stuff” exemplified… bar none. Those dark gray clouds have moved on from over my head now that Boots is back home playing with the dogs and my turtles King and Queen. Yes, I’ve met some of the staff members at BARCS, but it feels like I’ve met you all as Sam, Jessie, Dana, Lisa and Briana are an extension of you all. I couldn’t end this letter without giving you all accolades. It has been a privilege and an honor and you all will not be forgotten.
Boots and I elected that, in a world of smartphones, computers and high tech, to express our dearest sincerity, appreciation and gratitude in longhand to show that all this comes from the heart. Now, Boots has finished writing and has jumped up in his rocking chair to look at one of the 5gal fish tanks I have in the house. The fish hypnotize him to sleep; he loves watching his friends swim back and forth. But I know he’ll never forget his healthcare heroes at BARCS and his five friends Sam, Jessie, Dana, Lisa and Briana. Wow, what a team!
Go Girl Power!
Boots and Vernon L. Jones
P.S. I’m a frontline worker at Johns Hopkins Hospital, which is number one in the world bringing healthcare to all. With my experience associated with Boots and the frontline workers at BARCS… You are truly “One A!
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