Carol's journey to Animal-Assisted Therapy began on horseback. She established a therapeutic equestrian program, discovering an entire world where she could help people while sharing her passion for animals. It was work that filled her soul, combining two loves into one meaningful calling.
But the moment that truly sealed her fate came in 2011, during the most terrifying experience of her life.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Carol arrived at her first chemotherapy session filled with fear and anxiety. Then Jackie and Scottie, a Hand in Paw Therapy Team, walked through the door. Even though Carol had two dogs at home, there was something about Scottie's presence that told her everything would be alright. In that moment of vulnerability and fear, a therapy dog gave her comfort when she needed it most.
Right then and there, Carol made herself a promise: when she retired, she would volunteer for Hand in Paw.
And she's been making good on that promise ever since.
As Hand in Paw's Tuscaloosa Manager, Carol orchestrates the magic that happens when therapy animals meet people who need them. Every visit provides what she calls "nourishment for continuing," those moments when smiles truly reach the eyes of people who need it most, or when a child walks unaided for the first time while holding onto Maggie's back.
The enthusiasm from clients fuels Carol's passion daily. She lights up talking about the nurse who announces, "Here comes smiles!" when a Therapy Team enters an ICU, or the reluctant student who suddenly can't wait to read to a dog. "The stories are endless," she says.
In Tuscaloosa, Carol and her volunteers have become walking advertisements for Hand in Paw. The gold shirts and Golden Scarves are now recognized and requested throughout the community. Carol has become the face of Hand in Paw in Tuscaloosa, the person folks go to when they want to learn more about the organization, making HIP's presence impossible to miss in the Druid City.
When Carol isn't coordinating therapy visits, you'll likely find her at the theater. Most people know about her love of the stage, but here's a secret: she also loves to play dominoes. "I am fairly atrocious at it," she admits with characteristic honesty, "but hope springs eternal."
She delights in Tuscaloosa's vibrant community theater scene, from Theatre Tuscaloosa to the Actor's Charitable Theater and Tuscaloosa Children's Theatre. These organizations not only promote the arts but serve as beacons for diversity and inclusion. Whether Carol is performing onstage or managing the house, participating in theater is how she recharges her batteries.
Carol's approach to life is refreshingly straightforward: live each day finding joy in something. Hold family and friends close. Be kind to each other by giving back where you can.
It's a philosophy perfectly suited to someone who learned from a therapy dog named Scottie that comfort can come from the most unexpected places—and who now dedicates her time to creating those moments for others.
After all, when you've experienced firsthand how a wagging tail can transform your darkest day, you don't forget it. You pay it forward, one golden scarf at a time.
This post is part of our 30th Anniversary #WeAreHIP campaign, a celebration of the people who keep Hand in Paw moving forward every day. From Therapy Teams in the field to the staff working behind the scenes, we’re shining a light on the dedicated individuals whose commitment, creativity, and heart power our mission across Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa. As we celebrate 30 years of connection and impact, we’d love to hear from you, too.
Have you experienced the work of a Hand in Paw Therapy Team? Attended an event? Supported our mission in your own way? Share your story and help us mark this milestone year by adding your voice to the legacy!
