✰✰✰✰ Oscar is not just your average housecat; he is a cat with a calling. As a resident of Steere House, he tends to the dying. Oscar has a knack for knowing when a patient is ready to pass on. Then he settles in on their bed and oversees their last moments on earth making the process just a little more comfortable for patients, their families, and staff alike. Oscar is so accurate that over time, the staff has come to rely on him to know when to notify families.In addition to sharing observations about Oscar's uncanny gift, Dr. Dosa also imparts information to the reader about dementia related illnesses and hospice care. Many of the stories presented are uplifting although some tend to blend together after a while.
The Bottom Line: Dr. Dosa weaves together Oscar's tale with a collection of informative and touching patient stories. I originally chose this title for my nonfiction book club to read; it turned out to be their favorite book of the year. Don't let the topics of hospice, dementia, and dying deter you from reading this book. Pick it up and start reading; you'll be glad you did. Highly recommended for anyone who has a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia. Also, recommended for medical students and professionals looking to gain a deeper understanding of hospice care.
Details: Making Rounds with Oscar: The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat by David Dosa. Hardcover published by Hyperion in 2010. 240 p. ISBN: 9781401323233
For more information, visit Dr. Dosa's website or the Steere House website.
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