The death of a hospital therapy dog — a longtime source of comfort for children at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children — has touched off an outpouring of remembrances on a Facebook page dedicated to Tucker, a 10-year-old golden retriever.
The dog had been diagnosed with cancer and was in remission when he died unexpectedly on Monday. Tucker’s “mom/handler,” clinical psychologist Wendi Hirsch, on Wednesday announced on Facebook: “Our sweet, wonderful miracle Tucker passed away.”
In response, families shared stories detailing how, over a span of nine years, Tucker became a steady source of comfort in their children’s lives. They also posted photos and videos of the affectionate and sensitive dog nuzzling young patients and getting hugs in return.
Pauline CB wrote: “We are saddened to hear that my daughter’s best furry friend Tucker has passed away.” The comment was accompanied by a photo of the dog resting his face on her little girl’s hospital bed after her first round of chemotherapy.
The post continued, “Tucker and mom Wendi have been with us throughout my daughter’s cancer journey from the start in 2009. And even saw us through remission watching Alexis grow up!!”
Kapiolani CEO Martha Smith said in a written statement, “Tucker was our most beloved ‘employee’ and cherished not only by our patients and their families, but also by our physicians, nurses, staff, volunteers and the community.”
Handpicked as a pup for the job, Tucker was known to be especially sensitive to people, seeming to know whether a child was ready to be playful or just needed to be soothed.
Although “it will be very difficult to replace Tucker,” hospital officials said they are hopeful they will find another dog through Assistance Dogs of Hawaii.
