08/04/2026
Meet Bentley: New Therapy Dog Joins Deaconess Memorial Medical Center's Healing Mission
JASPER, Ind. - A wagging tail, a calming presence, and an unwavering ability to brighten someone's day has arrived at Deaconess Memorial Medical Center.
Bentley, a fully trained English Cream Golden Retriever, age 1, has officially joined the hospital as its newest therapy dog. Bentley is currently being integrated into the hospital’s environment and will be serving throughout the medical center. Working alongside trained caregivers, Bentley will visit patients, families, and team members throughout the organization, providing emotional support, reducing stress, and creating moments of comfort during some of life's most challenging circumstances.
Bentley's arrival was made possible through the generosity of Deaconess Memorial Medical Center caregivers who support the Memorial Medical Center Foundation through ECHO (Employees Caring & Helping Others), the hospital's employee giving program. Their collective generosity funded Bentley's training and introduction to the hospital, demonstrating the meaningful impact caregivers can have beyond the bedside.
"Bentley is a wonderful example of what can happen when caregivers come together to invest in one another and in the patients we serve," said Deidra Church, Director of the Memorial Medical Center Foundation. "Every gift made through ECHO reflects a commitment to making Deaconess Memorial Medical Center an even more compassionate place for patients, families, and fellow caregivers. We are incredibly grateful to every employee donor whose generosity helped make Bentley's mission possible."
The Foundation also recognizes the leadership of the Deaconess Police Department in developing and overseeing the therapy dog program. Through their dedication to training, safety, and program implementation, Bentley has been successfully integrated into the hospital environment and is prepared to serve throughout the medical center.
"Therapy dogs have a remarkable ability to connect with people during times of stress, fear, and uncertainty," said Kerri Blessinger, Deaconess Police Officer and Therapy Dog Program Leader. "Whether it's helping calm a nervous patient before a procedure, providing comfort to a family member, or giving a caregiver a reason to smile during a difficult day, Bentley brings a unique form of healing that complements the exceptional care our teams provide every day."
Research has shown that interactions with therapy animals can help reduce anxiety, lower stress levels, improve emotional well-being, and create meaningful moments of connection in healthcare settings. Bentley will become a familiar face throughout the hospital, visiting patient care areas and supporting both patients and caregivers.
Bentley represents compassion in action and reflects Deaconess Memorial Medical Center's continued commitment to caring for the whole person - body, mind, and spirit.
Patients, visitors, and caregivers are encouraged to say hello if they see Bentley making his rounds throughout the hospital. His hours and locations throughout the hospital will vary.
If you would like to support Bentley and the Deaconess Memorial Medical Center Therapy Dog Program, a dedicated restricted fund has been established through the Memorial Medical Center Foundation to help provide for Bentley's ongoing care and wellbeing. Gifts can be made at deaconess.com/mmcf and writing in the "Bentley Fund" as a gift note.
