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Juno, a therapy dog, spent six years comforting patients and staff at Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky before her death from cancer. She was part of the Heel, Dog, Heal program, run by the Norton Healthcare Foundation and Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation, which now includes 12 dogs working across multiple facilities. One of Juno’s daughters, Yarie, continues Juno’s legacy, providing comfort to patients and staff at the Norton Children’s Medical Center.
Beloved Hospital Dog Juno’s Legacy Continues at Norton Healthcare
The late Juno, a jovial blonde dog known for her stuffed animal carrying habit, was an integral part of the Heel, Dog, Heal program at the Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky. As an exceptional companion to both patients and staff for six years, Juno’s legacy remains influential even after her untimely death due to cancer complications on April 21.
“Juno could read the room remarkably,” reminisced Heather Stohr, manager of child life at Norton Children’s and Juno’s handler. “She had a knack for identifying the person in need of her companionship. Her everyday presence supporting patients, families, and our medical teams was a blessing.”
Heel, Dog, Heal Program Continues to Grow
The Heel, Dog, Heal program now boasts 12 therapy dogs across its various facilities. One of the newest additions to the team is Yarie, Juno’s daughter, who frequents Norton Children’s Medical Center. She carries on her mother’s legacy by bringing joy and comfort to patients and staff, in line with Juno’s tradition.
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