Who: David Dill, a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patient, and his care team, including Karen Gladfelter and Brianna Hess, registered nurses at WellSpan York Hospital.

What: David spent more than 100 days in the hospital after surgery to implant a LVAD in his heart, a device to take over the work of his left ventricle. His spirits were low, and he became depressed, with little motivation to get better.

His care team at WellSpan York Hospital wanted to do something special for David and worked with his daughter, Melissa, to bring his pitbull puppy, Arrow, in for a visit. Karen, Brianna and other team members helped transport David outside for the reunion with his pup – his first day outdoors since being admitted to the hospital.

This was only David’s second time seeing Arrow, as he had been adopted shortly before David’s surgery.

“Being able to see Arrow again brought tears to my eyes,” David says. “It was hot outside that day, but I stayed out for as long as I could to be with him. The visit made me feel better and encouraged me to work hard to get home and be with him. He had grown so much in the time I was in the hospital, and I didn’t want to miss more time with him or my family.”

From left, Helene Cox, nurse extern; Brianna Hess, registered nurse; Kimberly Saunders, registered nurse and LVAD coordinator; Kayla Bailey, LVAD social worker; Melissa Galloway, David’s daughter; and Michaela Koran, registered nurse and LVAD coordinator.

Words to live by:

“The visit really boosted his mood and brightened his spirits,” says Brianna. “Arrow was so gentle and excited to see his owner. Having the opportunity to do this for David reminds me of why I became a nurse. Most patients we care for are here today, discharged tomorrow, but we’ve built a connection with David, and it meant a lot to help make this reunion happen.”

David is now home, soaking up more moments with Arrow. His family is helping him train the pup to become a certified emotional support animal.

“Animals bring out the best in people,” says David. “They bring a smile to your face and make others happy. He’s just one part of my amazing support system that has helped bring out the best in me so I could return home. It meant a lot for the team to do this for me – I can’t thank them enough.”