On Thursday, April 9th, our friend "Daniel" passed away. He was 73 years old. You might be wondering who Daniel is and why I put his name in quotations. Well, Daniel was one of the inspirations behind Frankie's second book, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House. It will be released later 2009 or early 2010.
Daniel is not his real name, because I wanted to protect his privacy, as well as the other residents at Libby's House that Frankie and I have met since we began visiting in October 2008.
I had been hoping to write another Frankie book. But for awhile nothing was "moving" me t o do so. I work best under complete inspiration… and a little pressure. 🙂
Well, the day Frankie and I met Daniel, I knew right then and there I would write about the bond between the elderly and animals when they visit. The day we met Daniel my heart filled with joy and I knew I had to write about Frankie's impact not only on Daniel, but the other residents as well.
Daniel was extra special because he had this sweetness about him when he first laid eyes on Frankie. Sometimes moments cannot be described in words, but I knew the moment Daniel and Frankie began to interact that this was my sign from God and the universe to write another book.
Daniel fell head over heels in love with little Frankie and I felt in my heart she really was making a difference in his life when she visited… so thank you, Daniel, for being the inspiration behind Frankie's book. We will miss you, but will carry you in our hearts always and be grateful to have met you.
As our tribute to our sweet friend, Daniel, I share an expert from Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House.
Mom lifts me onto Daniel's lap. "You are so special, Frankie," he says. I look up at him and notice his eyes are filling with tears. "I feel so sorry for her," Daniel says sadly.
"You don't need to feel sorry for Frankie," Mom says. "Visiting you makes her very happy."
"It does?" Daniel holds me close. "Frankie is perfect, unlike me. I am not perfect," Daniel's voice cracks.
"We think you are perfect just the way you are." My mom tries to reassure Daniel. I rest my head on his knee and raise my eyebrows. Daniel smiles and his whole face lights up.