Patient to pin Rottweiler/Rhodesian Ridgeback as hospital's first dog
"Guardian Angel"

Reading, PA, January 21, 2010 -- When Mary Meanen came to St. Joseph Medical Center, she expected the high-tech scanners, the newest medications, and an experienced and compassionate staff to help her. What she also found was a seven-year-old Rottweiler/Rhodesian Ridgeback mix named Buster who cozied up to her with his warm nose as she got the "cold" news that her cancer had spread.

And now, Buster, owned by the hospital's Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Daniel Woolley, MD, will officially become Meanen's Guardian Angel today as part of a pinning ceremony that is usually reserved for honoring hospital staff that go the extra mile to help patients.

In nominating Buster, Meanen wrote that after being hospitalized and learning that her cancer had spread "it was a God-send to have Buster. He knew I was sick and came to me."

Meanen, 71, of Mohrsville, met Buster after she received the news that she had developed a rare form of cancer, myoepithelial carcinoma.

Prior to their meeting, Meanen had spent five days in the critical care unit at St. Joe’s and had been in and out of the hospital numerous times over the past year. Upon meeting Buster, Meanen felt that he "sensed" her cancer and "gave all his love and support" to her when she needed it most.

"It was such tough, tough news to swallow, so it was great having him there." Meanen said. "His empathy in what he does is far and above anything I've ever seen."

Maureen Woolley, who takes Buster to visit with patients, and who works on the Bern Campus, said that Buster’s "touch offered more than words could express."

Buster is certified by Pet Therapy Inc. and is a Good Canine Citizen. He has been providing friendship and support for patients at St. Joe's since 2007.

The Guardian Angel program enables patients to nominate hospital staff for their exemplary performance in patient care and kindness throughout the patient’s time at the hospital.