Midge

My husband Don and I were CILRA volunteers for many years and over that time fostered and helped find forever homes for a multitude of pups. In 2006 however, we met with our first and only “foster failure”, Midge. Midge won our hearts from day one and quickly became a beloved and permanent member of our family. Sadly, this past Thursday we lost Midge after a valiant battle with chronic hip deterioration and liver cancer. I have included a copy of Midge’s obituary to share with the CILRA community. She was a bright, beautiful and inspiring spirit and is so incredibly missed.   –Lydia J. and Family

Lydia added the following to Midge’s touching story:

Thank you for sharing Midge’s memorial. I hope it helps show the incredible potential of rescued Labs (or any animal) and inspires others to adopt. Midge changed so many lives for the better. And she loved doing it.

Below is a photo of my niece, who has Fragile X and is profoundly autistic and mentally challenged. As part of that she grew up with an incredible fear of animals; the anxiety and physical panic she experienced was painful to witness. But somehow, Midge knew how to graft in with her, to give her time and space and gain her trust. They became wonderful friends. The photo says it all…. It’s one of my favorites.

Midge’s Obituary

Midge Maude McCloud J., retired HRH volunteer and Therapy Dog, passed away peacefully August 1st 2019 at Danville Veterinary Hospital. She was 13 years old.

Midge was born in rural Kentucky in 2006, the largest pup in a litter of eight that had been surrendered to Central Indiana Lab Rescue and Adoption (CILRA). At seven weeks of age Midge was taken into foster care and quickly adopted by that same family who had fallen hopelessly in love with her easy-going spirit.

In her first year Midge graduated Basic Obedience Training and upon the recommendation of her instructor, went on to obtain both AKC Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dogs International certifications. In 2009 Midge joined the HRH Guest and Volunteer Services Department as part of the Paws To Pet program where she chose to specialize in bereavement therapy. In addition to HRH, Midge proved a comforting resource at five area funeral homes, long term care facilities and in private sessions with developmentally disabled youths.

Midge was known for being a “gentle giant”. She loved to shake hands and snuggle… and shake hands again. Midge never met a stranger and was genuinely patient, loyal, wise and giving. Whether in uniform or at home Midge was busy about her life’s work; showing love, compassion and acceptance to anyone in need. Thank you Midge for your many years of service, for the depth of your goodness, and for being such a beautiful testament to the immense and lasting value of pet rescue and adoption.