A Tribute to Gabby

Gabby and I began visiting in 2014. Every Thursday and Friday, we would complete the rounds we were scheduled for. Gabby absolutely loved people and adored children. Over the years, we encountered many memorable experiences. The people we visited frequently commented that Gabby made their day. In 2021–2022, Gabby was awarded Volunteer of the Year at St. Francis. She was always eager to go on our visits.

One particular experience stands out: a kindergarten student expressed a desire to learn how to read specifically so she could read to Gabby. In April, during Gabby’s turn in the reading program at Dorothy Heights, the student selected her book and read every single word to Gabby. It was a sweet and touching moment.

In addition to her regular visits, Gabby was also part of the Animal-Assisted Crisis Response Team. Her love for people shone through during each and every visit. There are many more memories I could recount. Gabby had a beautiful heart, and her presence always brought happiness to those she visited.