Come join us for a lively discussion! The HTPA Virtual Book Club usually takes place on the third Monday of every month at 7pm Central time (USA). The HTPA Book Club is FREE for HTPA Community, Professional and Insurance members. These rich discussions on the book of the month can support Level 5 reading requirements, and is an opportunity to share your wisdom. This is a wonderful way to join community, feel connected, and expand in thoughtful discourse. Only those that have requested to be a part of the Virtual Book Club (and hold an eligible Membership) will receive the Zoom link the day before the club meetings. Meetings are recorded and recordings are posted to the HTPA member portal. Once you have requested to join the club, you will always receive the links to the meetings, unless you request to be removed from the club or you allow your eligible HTPA membership to lapse.
Monday, July 15th at 7pm Central
Making Rounds with Oscar- The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat
by Dr. David Dosa
HT Reading Category: Spiritual Development
About the Book:
They thought he was just a cat. When Oscar arrived at the Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rhode Island he was a cute little guy with attitude. He loved to stretch out in a puddle of sunlight and chase his tail until he was dizzy. Occasionally he consented to a scratch behind the ears, but only when it suited him. In other words, he was a typical cat. Or so it seemed. It wasn't long before Oscar had created something of a stir. Apparently, this ordinary cat possesses an extraordinary gift: he knows instinctively when the end of life is near. Oscar is a welcome distraction for the residents of Steere House, many of whom are living with Alzheimer's. But he never spends much time with them -- until they are in their last hours. Then, as if this were his job, Oscar strides purposely into a patient's room, curls up on the bed, and begins his vigil. Oscar provides comfort and companionship when people need him most. And his presence lets caregivers and loved ones know that it's time to say good-bye. Oscar's gift is a tender mercy. He teaches by example: embracing moments of life that so many of us shy away from. Making Rounds with Oscar is the story of an unusual cat, the patients he serves, their caregivers, and of one doctor who learned how to listen. Heartfelt, inspiring, and full of humor and pathos, this book allows readers to take a walk into a world rarely seen from the outside, a world we often misunderstand.
About the Author:
Dr. David Dosa is a geriatrician at Rhode Island Hospital and an assistant professor of medicine at the Warrern Alpert Medical School of Brown University, both in Providence.
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