Leslie Karnowski

Adrian Jay/ HABITual Volunteer

Cancer Survival Center during his weekly visits. “It’s like being with a celebrity,” laughs the HABIT (Human Animal Bond in Tennessee) volunteer. “Patients actually schedule chemo on Tuesdays when he’s there.” Adrian joined HABIT three years ago because she wanted an activity the two could do together. “I never realized the impact a dog could have, especially when someone has received bad news,” she describes. “They immediately start smiling, almost laughing, when Jake walks in.” That impact was experienced first-hand when Adrian’s husband, Larsen, was recently hospitalized. “A dog can’t change what’s happening, but he can be a buffer during a difficult time.” Jake won a local TV pet costume contest because so many patients called in to vote. “These people are worth two hours of my life each week. If I can’t find that, then it’s time to reevaluate; however, it is bittersweet when someone finishes treatment.”