Not only do we love our visits with our senior heroes—but the truth is, they give just as much as they receive. They help us fill snack bags, make heartfelt cards, and even help dress our stuffed pups, each one going out with love and a blessing.
One of the greatest joys is showing them where their creations go—who receives their cards, their coloring, their kindness. You can almost see them light up as they realize the impact they’re making. Because here’s what I’ve learned: when someone feels like they still matter… 
they shine.
I’ll never forget one sweet lady.
She had been told she may be heading into hospice care. Her spirit had grown weary. She believed her purpose was behind her.
But God had more to the story.
We made a visit, Mabel Joy by my side, and brought her a care box. Inside was a soft stuffed Mabel Joy pup, wearing a little pink bandana—just like Mabel. As she held that little pup, happy tears welled up in her eyes. And then… she began adjusting the bow on the pup’s neck. Untying. Retrying. Sitting it just so. Making sure it was perfect.
At that moment, something clicked.
She may have been in a fragile season… but her hands were steady, her heart engaged. And I knew—we may have just found the most talented 
stuffed pup dresser in the ministry.
And so it began.
She started helping us dress the Mabel pups—tying each bandana with care. Then came coloring cards, adding her own beautiful touch to every one. And somewhere along the way, she came back to life.
They said she had months. But she had years.
Because what she really needed… was purpose.
I’ll never forget the day we showed her a picture of one of her pups in the arms of a patient. She beamed and said, “I helped! I really helped!”
Yes, she did. And not just with cards and pups—she helped us remember the power of showing up, of inviting someone to matter again.
Because purpose doesn’t always look like a grand stage or big assignment.
Sometimes… it looks like a bow.
Tied just right.
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