Chandler family gift expands pet therapy program at Baptist Health Hardin
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (July 14, 2025) – On Thursday, Baptist Health Hardin leaders, staff and volunteers gathered for a special celebration honoring the Chandler family, whose generous support of the Baptist Health Foundation Hardin will expand the hospital’s pet therapy program and allow it to reach more patients than ever before.
During the event, the hospital also announced that the program has been named the Kira Chandler Pet Therapy Program, in honor of a young girl whose courage and love of animals serve as an inspiration for others.
“Kira’s legacy reminds us how love and compassion can create lasting change,” said Tracee Troutt, vice president and chief development officer. “This gift will give us the ability to offer more patients, their families and our team pet therapy.”
Honoring Kira’s Legacy
The newly named Kira Chandler Pet Therapy Program honors the life of Kira Chandler, who was born at Baptist Health Hardin in 2004. Kira had an early bond with animals — especially her Jack Russell terrier, Lola, and her affectionate cat, Mia. After her family moved to Florida in 2007, her days were filled with dance, gymnastics, baking, crafting and soaking up sunshine.
At just 7 years old, Kira was diagnosed with DIPG, a rare and aggressive brain tumor. Over the next year, her family sought treatment for her across 11 hospitals. During that journey, pet therapy became one of her greatest sources of comfort – turning fearful moments into ones filled with calm and joy. The presence of therapy animals helped Kira find peace even in her most difficult days.
Kira’s grandparents, David and Sherry Chandler, made the donation in her memory — a gift that ensures other patients will experience the same emotional support that gave comfort to their granddaughter. Kira is also remembered by her parents, Mike and Jamie Chandler, and her younger brother, Blake.
“As you hear laughter, feel sunshine, or experience the butterfly caress of a breeze, you are feeling Kira’s hugs and kisses, comforting you and reminding you, you will be with her again,” said the Chandlers.
“This program will carry Kira’s light into every patient room it touches,” said Mike Bowers, Baptist Health Foundation Hardin board chair. “The Foundation is deeply honored to steward such a meaningful legacy.”
About the Kira Chandler Pet Therapy Program
The Kira Chandler Pet Therapy Program uses certified therapy animals in structured visits to comfort:
- Hospitalized adults and children
- Patients undergoing cancer treatment or in palliative care
- Individuals coping with trauma, PTSD, dementia or pain
- People who have experienced sexual assault
- Healthcare staff experiencing stress or fatigue
Visits can be ordered by physicians or requested by patients, and are designed to relieve stress, lower blood pressure, reduce pain and promote emotional well-being.
How to Volunteer
Baptist Health Auxiliary Hardin is now accepting applications from community members and their dogs to become part of this growing program. Volunteers will play a vital role in continuing Kira’s legacy by offering comfort and spreading joy throughout the hospital.
Baptist Health Hardin permits patients and visitors with service animals to access all public and patient care areas in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). No other pets, including emotional support animals, are allowed inside Baptist Health Hardin facilities.
Volunteer Eligibility
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, with a completed background check and onboarded through volunteer services.
Dog Requirements
Dogs must be current on all vaccinations, pass a behavior screening and have completed Canine Good Behavior Program.
Training Provided
Training will include onboarding of pet and handler – including observation sessions – to ensure that good behavior is exhibited.
Time Commitment
Volunteers are required to visit a minimum of one hour per week with a 6-month time commitment.
Learn more or apply
For more information, or to apply, call 270.706.1713 or e-mail [email protected].