Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola Welcomes First Facility Dog Dedicated to Adult Cancer Patients

Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola is proud to welcome Curry, the newest member of its Sacred Paws facility dog program and the first facility dog dedicated exclusively to supporting adult outpatient oncology patients. Made possible by the generous support of the Bear Family Foundation, Curry provides comfort, companionship and emotional support to patients receiving radiation and infusion treatments.

As the eighth dog to join the Sacred Paws Program, Curry's presence addresses a significant need by providing dedicated support to adult patients receiving cancer treatment. Each year, the Cancer Center cares for approximately 2,400 patients receiving chemotherapy. Curry provides a calming, reassuring presence during radiation and infusion treatments, helping ease anxiety and create moments of comfort for patients and their families.

"The Bear family's legacy has always been one of hope, and Curry is a beautiful reflection of that legacy," said Adrienne Maygarden, President of the Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation. "Because of their extraordinary generosity, patients and families facing cancer will experience moments of comfort, connection, and hope when they need them most. We are deeply grateful for the Bear Family Foundation's partnership and for the lasting difference they continue to make in the lives of those we serve."

Curry began serving patients June 22 after completing specialized training through Canine Assistants, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and placing facility dogs across the country.

"Giving back has always been part of who we are," said Belle Bear, of the Bear Family Foundation. "Cancer has touched our lives in deeply personal ways, so we understand that healing is about more than medicine. We hope Curry brings comfort, hope, and companionship to patients and their loved ones during some of their hardest days."

Curry joins seven other facility dogs serving Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola patients through the Sacred Paws Program, which provides comfort and emotional support across multiple clinical settings throughout the hospital system. Studies have shown that interactions with facility dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety while enhancing the overall patient experience during medical treatment.