11/14/2025
Hi Belinda,
We received the following thanks and email from one of the airport police officers.
Barbara-Anne
On 10/26/2025, at approximately 1104 hours, officers were dispatched to Departures Level Door 2 in response to a medical emergency. It was believed that the patient, an elderly male, was suffering from a stroke. The patient had just arrived at RSW where his daughter and two grandsons were waiting for his arrival. Understandably, the family was distressed. The patient's mother attempted to assist medics with the patient's medical history, while the children were upset and frightened by the situation.
Officers and operational personnel on scene worked to distract and comfort the children while ARRF and medics tended to the patient. During this time, I observed Woof Therapy Dogs in the east atrium. I approached the first handler I saw and informed her of the situation. Without hesitation, the handler and her dog, Rollo, responded to assist. Rollo remained remarkably calm despite the activity in the area, which included fire trucks, ambulances, and personnel.
The handler brought Rollo to the children and in a soothing voice, began to interact with them about the dog. The children started to pet Rollo and were successfully distracted from the distressing situation. I have no doubt that this event will remain a difficult memory for the children, but I hope that Rollo’s presence helped make the experience a little easier.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the entire Woof team, especially to Rollo and his handler, for their swift, compassionate, and professional support. Whenever Woof is present in the terminal, passengers often light up delighted to be petting the adorable dogs but in situations like this, the team’s presence is truly invaluable.
Thank you for your continued partnership and for enabling this vital service.
Officer J. Clark 1404
Master Officer
Congratulations Rhea and Rollo ( from your team mates )
