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Cheryl Jetton Poem
Each week she enters the building with smiles all around
She’s come to bring them happiness and hope to abound
Her large Newfoundland body sets many aback
They wonder what her breed is, and if she might attack
Her handler full of patience and love answers each question with care
She assures them of their safety and encourages them to pet Joy’s hair
Joy’s smiling face greets them fondly, and her loving nature puts them at ease
She wears a welcoming dog harness that says, “Bringing Joy” and pet me as you please
Soon their apprehensions all disappear
Joy’s loving way, replaces their doubts and fears
As they slowly let her into their hearts
With each visit a friendship begins to start
With everything and everyone there’s a building of trust
But to start a new chapter turning the next page is a must
With each knock on the door, the handler doesn’t know what to expect
It’s her care and love for God that drives her to the next
With her cheerful voice she says, “Would you like a visit from Joy?”
Even though she knows that most of them will call her a boy
Joy’s tremendous 130 pound frame gives them something to chat about
She has a child like goofy way that gives them much laughter without a doubt
Many of the same questions begin to unfold
Each and every week the all the same answers are told
Where did you come from? What’s her breed? What does she eat?
What does she like to do? Does she shed? Where does she sleep?
Is Joy hard to take care of? Does she ride in your car?
Did you train her yourself? Does she like to play and bark?
The handler answers each question as if it was the first
Even though inside, she feels like her mind just might burst
The are times of such happiness and some days that feel so bleak
Joy’s has a persistent way with a nudge of her nose that makes them want to speak
Soon the beloved seniors begin to share their struggles from day to day
They speak of their loved ones, former pets, and how much they miss the ones who have passed away.
The handler listens with care and says, “I’ll pray for you.”
Here’s a picture of Joy and we’ll see you soon
Week after week the admiration grows
I see a hope emerging with each time that this therapy dog shows
Some people say that dogs can’t speak
But Joy’s loving message rings loud and clear each and every week
“Keep on going, hoping, and smiling too!”
“I’m Joy your therapy dog and I love you!”
Copyright © Cheryl Jetton | Year Posted 2023
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Cheryl Jetton Poem
Today was so very brutal.
I felt my strength worked to the bone.
My family doesn’t seem to care.
At times, I feel so alone.
All the thoughts of would’ve, could’ve, should’ve come rushing to my mind.
There are many peaks and valleys, as I keep moving through my life.
The devil has always been right there, to discouraged and accuse.
But sometimes I feel he doesn’t need much help as others seem to fit the bill.
What now, I can’t go back.
What now, the future seems unclear.
Then my God gently reminds me, my child, you don’t belong here!
Your home will be in heaven, and my Son will take you there someday!
You gave your life to Jesus, and He will help you along the way.
You don’t need to worry, He’ll be with you in each moment of time.
They’ll never understand you, my child, because many did not understand me.
Just put your hand in your Savior’s hand and He’ll clear the path, you’ll see!
Copyright © Cheryl Jetton | Year Posted 2025
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Cheryl Jetton Poem
From the moment we entered Brookdale, we were welcomed with a beautiful smile. It was Mrs. Edith in her caring way welcoming us to the place. Mrs. Edith loved dogs, and I was there with a therapy dog named Joy. She was huge Newfoundland, and Mrs. Edith couldn't believe her size. The two were about to embark on a beautiful friendship that would last her until she moved away. Mrs. Edith was a residential ambassador, and she wore her badge with pride.
She welcomed all the new residents, and she showed them what to do. She made them feel at ease, because maybe this their first time there in a retirement home. She had such a lovely, caring way and she loved to get her steps. She wore her Fitbit faithfully and walked around the place so much. She participated in all the activities and was always available if they needed her in the front office.
We had so many great conversations about friends and family. We talked about the good Lord and how much he had done for us! Joy would patiently waited after getting a pat on the head and let us have our discussions each time. It wasn’t until one day in November that she opened up. She told me that she really didn't want to go to Thanksgiving at her son's home.
I asked her why, and she said “ it’s because I feel that they want me to babysit.” They don't really value my time with them. I said, “I'm so sorry you're a beautiful lady, and you don't deserve that treatment.” What I didn't know is this was the start of her mental capacity going away. Week after week she stopped remembering as much. It wasn't until about a year and a half later, that her family took her to a different place. I will never forget the beautiful person of Brookdale that welcomed us to the place. I will see her someday in heaven, and get to thank her for welcoming Joy and me!
Copyright © Cheryl Jetton | Year Posted 2026
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Cheryl Jetton Poem
Ms. Mary was usually sitting in her La-Z-Boy chair! She loved to watch Blue Bloods on the television and was a Tom Selleck fan. With a sweet and lovely smile, she welcomed us in! She gave Joy, the Newfoundland therapy dog, a pat on the head! Then Joy laid down by her chair while we talked about her grandchildren and the people at Brookdale.
Ms. Mary was a Methodist, and she spoke about her church family too! She had lived in the area since the 70’s, and she owned her home since that time. She was so very thankful that her granddaughter and her family were there now.
I spoke about Joy and what she liked. She would look at Joy with loving gaze. Some weeks we’d see Miss Mary in the halls and she’d be using her walker. She would always stop and give joy a pat on the head. She was truly loved by the other resident and the employees too!
One day we went to Ms. Mary’s door, and knocked on it. The door was locked, and I was alarmed because that had never been locked before. I said a quick prayer for her, and week after week the same thing happened. I couldn’t ask at the front desk, because I’m only a volunteer. I was able to ask another resident, and she said was in physical therapy. Each week was just the same, until I noticed the her name on the door was gone. I was guessing her family moved her on to a different place.
Ms. Mary, it was a pleasure to know you, and we’ll never forget you!
Copyright © Cheryl Jetton | Year Posted 2026
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