Five Questions with…Fred.

Posted April 14th, 2022

Welcome to our newest blog series, “Five Questions With…”  In this series, we will highlight the unsung heroes that make healthcare work. From guest services to the phlebotomist, the pet therapy volunteer, and the environmental services workers.  These individuals enhance our experiences when we are getting care and highlight human connection and support. Thank you for all […]

Healing Paws: Brenda and Finn

Posted June 24th, 2016

There is no doubt that Brenda was skeptical when she first heard that therapy dogs would be coming to the radiation oncology department. “I didn’t get it…until I saw it.” Fast forward one year, and Brenda has become a big supporter of pet therapy. Brenda works as a patient access coordinator in the department. She […]

Healing Paws: Special Edition-Take Your Kids to Work Day

Posted May 20th, 2016

A couple of weeks ago, our department celebrated “Take Your Kids to Work Day.” Leadership planned a number of activities for the kids to learn all about the Department of Radiation Oncology and how we all work together, in very different roles, to take care of patients. This year, Finn the therapy dog was included! Finn met with […]

Healing Paws: Kim and Finn

Posted March 18th, 2016

Kim is a dedicated staff member of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia radiation oncology team. Kim is the first face the families coming for treatment see. They trust her implicitly. That is why Kim’s endorsement of Finn, the therapy dog, is so important. Kim is a self-proclaimed dog person, but can’t have a dog of […]

Healing Paws: Claire, Elise, Kim, Don and Finn

Posted February 9th, 2016

“Sissy, look. Doggie!” Elise brought her sister, Claire, over to meet Finn. Claire (age 4 ½) was still a bit groggy from anesthesia, but her interest and wonder in Finn was apparent. Finn first met Elise, who is the 23-month-old sister of Claire. Elise was drawn to Finn like a magnet. She squealed with delight […]

Healing Paws: Miriam, Monica and Finn

Posted December 23rd, 2015

Miriam and Monica are first year students at the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. As social workers in training, their studies are rigorous and coupled with 24 hours per week in field practice work. Miriam and Monica are completing their field work at Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology. Since the beginning of […]

Healing Paws: Finn and Linda

Posted December 16th, 2015

Linda has been “hanging out” with Finn for the past four weeks. “I look forward to Thursdays when he is here. He takes my mind off why I’m here.” She and her husband have made it a habit to bring Finn special treats every week. They love to share affection and compassion with their furry […]

Healing Paws: Ron, Monica and Finn

Posted December 9th, 2015

As she sat in the waiting room, Monica was instantly draw to Finn. “I had a beagle named Heidi—he reminds me of her. He brings up great memories.” Visiting with Finn brought up positive memories for Monica. Her mood improved. Reminiscing about her own dog helped her cope with the stress she was currently facing. […]

Catherine and Finn

Posted December 1st, 2015

“Finn is a sweetie pie…the best thing since sliced cheese.” says Catherine as she gets closer for some snuggles before her radiation treatment. Pet therapy has been a surprising source of support for Catherine and her caregiver, Woody. Catherine describes Finn as comforting and distracting. “He gives me something else to think about—I also see […]