A few years ago, a good friend asked what he could do for me and the Humane Society. I told him I’d love to have something that would depict our shelter as a place of hope, not despair, of joy, not sadness.

While on a trip to Atlanta, I saw what I wanted – a bronze statue of a little girl holding two puppies and trying to bottle feed one. Without a single thought, it was purchased for me. She did not come cheaply and my gratitude to this day runs deep. Once again, thank you Doc.

Many have commented on her beauty as she joyfully greets visitors to our shelter. Still I’ve always had this uneasy feeling that something could be added to give her proper reverence.

I have recently visited Clayton’s Monuments in Landrum and purchased a stone with a bronze plaque to lay at her feet. My dear wife said I couldn’t afford to do this and I answered, “I can’t afford no to.” Claytons, who are supporters of my cause, offered to do the etching for free, which saved me hundreds of dollars. It will take a month or so from late March for it to be completed and placed. If you approve what I had to say, perhaps some of my supporters can help me recoup some of my personal outlay. Either way I pray it will inspire many folks to help my kids.

Here is what the inscription will say:

“Not like the great lady of New York Harbor fame, who calls the destitute from foreign land: Here ‘neath our sun bathed shelter she stands, a young maiden with a look of joy emblazoned on her face, and her name Child of Hope. Midst her arms puppies squirm as her passionate eyes command. Nestled among the ancient hills of storied pomp! She pleads with silent lips.

‘Give me your abandoned, abused, your unwanted pets, longing for a home, the wretched refuse of your empty hearts.’