Paws Visits Beaumont Rehab Facility

DEARBORN, MI — Patients and staff at Beaumont Rehabilitation and Continuing Care in Dearborn had a special visitor recently that brought smiles to everyone’s faces. Paws, the official mascot of the Detroit Tigers, spent an afternoon with those who call the facility home.

“We never know what to expect whenever Paws shows up,” said Angela Gielow, the Beaumont recreation therapy supervisor. “He visits us every year so it’s a big occasion. Paws doesn’t talk, but he doesn’t have to. His antics make up for it.”

Paws’ first stop during this year’s visit was to the community dining area where several residents and staff were gathered to eat popcorn and listen to music. Along with big smiles, Paws gave and received handshakes, high fives, big hugs and kisses.

“Paws isn’t worried if someone doesn’t respond right away,” said Gielow. “Somehow he knows when to sit close by and wait until a smile begins to appear.”

Several of the staff prepared in advance for Paws’ visit by dressing in Detroit Tigers sportswear. In only ways that a non-talking mascot can do, he playfully relaxed behind desks or jumped over work counters.

“He reminded us more of being a Tigger than a tiger,” said Gielow, who also accompanied Paws to visit patients in their rooms. “We could also recognize passionate Tigers’ fans, because they were free in sharing unsolicited advice for the Tigers’ team.
No matter the baseball season’s outcome, Paws scored a home run with us.”

Located on the campus of Beaumont Commons, Beaumont Rehabilitation and Continuing Care provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services to those in need. This campus supports each individual resident and their families—including those in advanced and later stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Medical assistance includes an emphasis on rehabilitation, recovery and comfort in a home-like setting.

Photo courtesy of Beaumont Rehabilitation and Continuing Care

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