Regional Hospice and Home Care has a new mascot.  William made his debut last month as metaphor for the determination and optimism that paved the way for the Center for Comfort Care & Healing.

A bronze French bulldog, William is the 2003 creation of internationally-renowned British sculptor, Nicola Hicks, and is on loan from the personal collection of French-born businessman and philanthropist, William Louis-Dreyfus.  Louis-Dreyfus, the father of actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, hosted two events at his gallery to generate support during the campaign to build the Hospice Center.

Born into a family of well-established London artists in 1960, Nicola Hicks studied at Chelsea School of Art, and received her MA at the Royal College of Art. In 1995, at the age of 35, Nicola Hicks was awarded the honor of MBE (Most Excellent Award for the British Empire) for her contribution to the visual arts. She has had major solo shows in leading museums and galleries in Great Britain and internationally.

William is positioned atop a table in the Center’s main lobby, and will welcome patients, families and visitors.

William is also on a tour of duty to add a dose of lighted-hearted fun for the children participating in the Center’s bereavement programs.  Healing Hearts officials say William will serve as a symbol of the children's resilient spirit that makes them open to so much joy despite the losses they have experienced.

In a new Healing Hearts Center for Grief and Loss activity named "Where's William", the dog's photo will accompany children participating in the Center’s bereavement programs on their adventures over the next six months.  With his photo in hand, each child will be able to submit William’s whereabouts to Regional Hospice.