Have you heard about Poppy? She’s a four-year-old miniature horse and the newest member of the therapy team at Yuma Regional Medical Center. This isn’t your average hospital visit, though.
Poppy is bringing joy, hugs, and even kisses to patients to help lift their spirits during tough times.
Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes. and Dr. Cortina Peters knows it’s a wonderful idea. “Being able to have something next to you that’s not judging you, something furry that you can touch and hug can really help you get out of a tough situation,” she explains. It’s like a warm, fuzzy hug for your heart!
Of course, safety is important, especially in a hospital setting. There may be some concerns about cleanliness, especially for patients with weaker immune systems. But overall, it’s a great idea, and maybe all children’s hospitals should consider something similar.
