At first glance, this picture may look like a granddaughter comforting her grandfather as he lays weak in a hospital bed. But the truth is, this woman is a police officer who only met Bob two years ago while on duty.
Lawrenceville Police Officer Dena Walker Pauly’s life changed forever the day she was dispatched to a local pawn shop where staff were unsure how to help Bob.
Life has been anything but kind to him. Bob has been on his own since childhood, with no known family. He spent most of his life homeless and a stroke eventually left him unable to speak. His story is filled with hardship, loneliness and heartache.
When Officer Pauly arrived at the pawn shop, she didn’t know what he needed either, but she could tell he needed help. She offered to take him home, and what she saw broke her heart. His living conditions were unbearable. That day, it became clear she wasn’t just sent by dispatch, she was sent by God.
From that moment on, she stepped in. She taught Bob simple things like throwing trash away, made sure he had food, and regularly cleaned his small apartment. She became his voice and eventually was granted Power of Attorney for his medical care.
Bob has been in the hospital since May. Today, Officer Pauly made the heartbreaking decision to begin hospice care for him. She held his hand, told him over and over that she loved him, and it may very well be the first time anyone has ever said those words to him.
This is the side of law enforcement many people never see. Behind the uniform are hearts that care deeply. Officers witness the worst but sometimes they also get the privilege of creating the best moments.
Just like Officer Pauly did for Bob.
Her compassion, dedication and love for humanity show exactly what it means to wear the badge. Stories like this happen every single day but they rarely make the headlines.
Credit to Georgia Law Enforcement for sharing this incredible reminder of what it means to truly serve. ❤️❤️❤️