When patients walk into the OhioHealth Delaware Cancer Center, they are greeted by an aquarium full of colorful fish that has won the hearts of many.

The aquarium is more than just a decorative piece. For many patients, like Delaware local Ron O’Harra, who visits the center every few weeks for colorectal cancer treatment, it’s become an important part of their cancer journey.

“It calms the people,” O’Harra said. “When they come in worried about their treatments, they sit in front of it for a few minutes. It definitely helps with getting them through their cancer treatment.”

Patients not only enjoy watching the fish but also take an active role in caring for them. They feed the fish and even name them, with “Bob,” a large goldfish, being a particular favorite. And the fish return the affection. They often come up to the glass to greet the patients and even give “kisses,” O’Harra said.

When renovations began to expand the cancer center, there was concern that the beloved fish tank might have to be removed. The idea of losing such a comforting presence spurred a community effort. Patients, moved by their love for the tank and its residents, came together to find alternative homes for the fish. O’Harra and his wife even offered to take them in.

“They talked about getting rid of the fish tank and that broke my heart,” O’Harra said. “We would gladly take it, but for all those patients that go through there, they love those fish, they really do.”

Thanks to the community’s outpouring of support, the decision was made to keep the aquarium. The renovation project is expected to be completed later this fall, with Bob and his tankmates remaining in their home.

“It’s been there for the past seven years,” said Carla Knisley, OhioHealth director of clinical support services. “They’ve grown so accustomed to the fish tank that it’s definitely a calming aspect of their journey. Both patients and staff really feel like these fish are their pets.”

Based in Columbus, OhioHealth is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit, charitable, healthcare outreach of the United Methodist Church.

Serving its communities since 1891, OhioHealth is a family of 35,000 associates, physicians and volunteers, and a network of 15 hospitals, three joint-venture hospitals, one managed-affiliate hospital, 200-plus ambulatory sites and other health services spanning a 50-county area. For more information, visit ohiohealth.com.

Submitted by OhioHealth.