Ken Johnson & Shadow: Community Service Recognition

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It is with great enthusiasm that Tucson Medical Center (TMC) nominates volunteer Ken Johnson and his pet therapy dog, Shadow. Ken and Shadow have visited the hospital almost daily for the past six years.

Ken and Shadow quickly became a TMC fixture, visiting the lobbies and units every morning. Ken’s visits were so frequent that he struck a strong friendship with many TMC employees. Though Shadow is a one-hundred-and-twenty-pound bull mastiff, she is sweet and loves belly rubs and attention. Like Ken, her playful and fun nature has a wonderful calming effect on all who visit with her. Ken delightfully visits with people while Shadow wags her tail and wallows in the attention. The big dog brings big smiles and happiness.

Ken and Shadow are always seen at special events and other “guest star opportunity” times. They also go out of their way to visit on the weekends, Saturdays, and Sundays, so staff and patients can receive much-needed pet therapy. Ken and Shadow make such a positive impression that they are known throughout the hospital by the entire staff. It is common to hear employees happily calling after the pet therapy team down the hallways.

Pet therapy has an immeasurably positive impact on the morale of patients and staff. Ken and Shadow are the backbone of the program and leave lasting impressions that span beyond the hospital’s four walls.

Community Service Recognitions

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Community Service Recognitions, including the one received by Ken and Shadow, are given at the annual SAVMA Awards. These recognitions and awards are part of a larger strategic effort to draw attention to the essential work of volunteers and to the profession of volunteer engagement.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Tucson Medical Center.