What are the chances that Gus would meet the same Laker girl twice? He met and charmed her a couple of years ago when UCLA health held an event in Century City showcasing their mobile stroke unit.
This week it was during spirit day at the hospital, celebrating the Lakers being in first place in the Western conference and also paying quiet tribute to Kobe Bryant. As soon as she saw him, she broke into a warm smile of recognition.
ELBEE Could it be because his hair was purple and gold again?
Several of the PAC dogs and their people were outside the hospital in Laker regalia. I was wearing a t-shirt from the 2010 championships and had some very tasteful purple streaks in my hair.
ELBEE She was walking a fine line between rabid Laker fan and crazy old lady.
There was an air of expectation as a growing crowd gathered, waiting for a Laker legend or two to join us. Suddenly I heard applause and an excited shout as four former players, including James Worthy and Michael Cooper materialized on the patio.
As the organizers were trying to get everyone to line up for photos and autographs, a couple of us moved in. With Gus in my arms, I found myself standing right in front of Robert Horry and A.C. Green. Horry looked very stern so I asked “Are you okay with the dog?” Looking way down to look me in the eye, he said “I really don’t like dogs.” I was about to cross him off my list of favorite Lakers, when he burst out laughing and said “I just wanted to see what you’d do. I love dogs.”
The tribute to Kobe was silent and beautiful. Rick Estrada, the artist who created this portrait, was there to answer people’s questions and to share memories. As I thanked him for his amazing work, I mentioned that I was a long time Laker fan and that my shirt was from the 2010 championships, the year that Kobe was MVP.
To my surprise, that was the year depicted in the painting. Rick even pointed out the bandage on Kobe’s finger. I’ve lost count of the number of conversations I’ve had about Kobe since his passing. His death has bonded so many people, in grief and in celebration of his life. This was one of those special shared moments.
