Tuesday, June 15, 2010

"Making Rounds with Oscar"

"Making Rounds with Oscar" by David Dosa, M.D.
Dr. Dosa is skeptical about Oscar's ability to know when patients on this floor are near death.
Very thoughtful book regarding Alzheimer's and dementia, staff, and family members of patients at this medical facility, bring to Dr Dosa's attention that within hours of an impending death, Oscar always goes to comfort either the patient or a family member, takes this "duty" very seriously, and even stays until the funeral staff arrive to take the remains. Dr. Dosa interviews many family members, and observes first hand Oscar's self-appointed duties, and becomes a believer.
Oscar is not a forefront character in the book, but still this was an interesting book to see how animals connect with humans.
This subject could be depressing, but Dr. Dosa writes in a soft approach, with much empathy and sympathy.

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