Two Goldens: A Mutual Healing
 

     I will start with a “tail” (and a wagging one, at that) of my daughter and her undying love for her Golden: Lacey. Sheila (my 20 year-old daughter who is a college student at Southwest Texas State University) had to have her tonsils removed (a major trauma for someone that age) over Christmas break 2001. Her Golden baby Lacey (fondly known as “Laces”—for that precious woven bundling of threads that make such outstanding pieces of beauty) would not leave Sheila's side, recuperating right alongside her in her recovery bed.
     For three days, Laces would not eat, much as her sister-in-heart could not. Laces lifted her regal head only on the occasions when Sheila awakened to attempt to drink fluids, and only then would this special Golden drink her own water. Needless to say, both girls went long hours without any sustenance.
     Only when Sheila slowly began returning to her normal self (about 3 days after surgery) did Laces also begin her own “recuperation.” Both took over 10 days to even begin to approach their former playful selves, and then only in short periods of time and with numerous naps in between.
     These Golden Gifts from Above have such a connection with their caretakers that they tend to grieve, hurt, laugh and love right alongside those they love without condition.
     Just a week ago (almost a year since the surgery), Sheila took Lacey to the vet to check her out for problems with her breath. He diagnosed the baby with tonsillitis, and this event struck my daughter to her very core. Now, with the tables turned, Sheila began to nurse her own baby back to health, tucking in covers around her, propping pillows under her chin, offering those special hugs that only someone who has felt the pain can understand, even dishing out a little ice cream . . . all in an effort to reciprocate the love and caring necessary for recuperation.
     Those two, my Golden-haired children, are now back off at college and both are taking wonderful care of each other. I know each is safe and well cared for in the presence of the other.
     This special connection that Laces has with my daughter continues to reinforce my determination to find a way to spread this special Golden's love with others who are battling similar, yet even tougher struggles with their physical health. Perhaps I can dedicate myself to making such an endeavor happen beginning with these upcoming holidays, a particular time to reinforce our appreciation for the Golden Gifts we have.

  



Entry written by Shari Janak of Goliad, TX

 


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