We always knew that cats could make a huge impact on human lives, so when we found out about Oreo, an adorable feline who is bringing joy to her new home in a nursing facility, we weren't surprised.
According to the Huffington Post, Oreo wandered into St. Augustine Health Ministries about five years ago, where she befriended the staff as well as live-in residents. Now, she's their most championed mascot, bringing furry joy to everyone.
The facility has over 200 residents, and many of them have suffered strokes and brain injuries, or are too old to care for their own pets. Luckily for them, they have Oreo. She resides on the main floor, and while she isn't allowed upstairs into any bedrooms, her presence is evident to all.
According to the director of advancement, Dana Carns, Oreo is an example of the love one often finds in a home, and St. Augustine's residents definitely agree. "I figured she can have me. I'm not her owner, but I like her," said Susan Orwen, a nursing home resident.
Oreo also has a special place in the hearts of the staff. She's often seen sitting at the receptionist desk, or keeping St. Augustine workers — who often wait in the lobby for a ride home — company.
"She's like our family here, she helps the residents, she helps the employees and we just love her," said Cermen Delgado a receptionist at the facility.
While the nursing home also boasts a live-in dog, Coco, he hasn't gained quite as much attention as Oreo … yet. "They both give residents something to look for, to care about, to love on," Carns wrote to the Huffington Post.
It may have been Oreo who found a home in St. Augustine Health Ministries, but the adorable feline is what truly makes the facility a home for residents and staff. "I'm not sure if Oreo was in need of us, or we were in need of Oreo," Carns said. "But she's a great addition to our family."
[h/t Huffington Post]
