T he therapy dog program will no longer be offered in Vernon at this time. It is mainly because there have been many changes to the protocols and procedures of the program.
Consequently, after a great deal of thought about these changes, I have decided to leave the therapy dog program. This was done with a great amount of sadness that I do, as it has been a most enjoyable time and a major part of my life.
For example, in 2010 at an investiture ceremony at Government House in Victoria, I received a medal from then-Lt.-Gov. Steven L. Point. This was because I was recognized as performing outstanding service.
At that time, I brought Bebe, a 13-year-old three-pound white toy poodle, with me. She had been my therapy dog for 11 years.
Just a few minutes previous to receiving my medal, Point, with a sword, had just promoted a man, who was kneeling, to knighthood. That was so impressive.
Then I was invited again to Government House in 2012 to receive the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal which honoured my contributions and achievements.
From the 25,000 or more St. John members in Canada, only 33 medals were allotted.
I received one of them and I was the only facilitator to do so. Needless to say, it was a tremendous thrill to be so honoured. I will always remember and cherish the pomp and ceremony on that day. It was magnificent!
The therapy dog program has contributed so much to many. For example, my division alone included Revelstoke, Armstrong, Enderby, Oyama, Lumby, Coldstream and, of course, Vernon.
There were more than 25 places that the dogs visited on a regular basis.
I have been a facilitator here in Vernon for more than 17 years. During that time there have been more than 260 people in the program. For this year alone there were 41 participating. This totals more than 300 people who have given their time and commitment to this program. Every one of these people will tell you of the sheer joy and pleasure they have witnessed and/or experienced when visiting.
In closing, I want to sincerely thank all 300 of you for the time and commitment that you gave to this program over all these years. You, with your dog, made a big difference to so many people’s lives.
I always said that if you just made one person smile, you had done your job. Good on you.
Jo-Ann Johnston
Vernon