Cricket and her handler are headed into the children's hospital when they are suddenly pulled away to help in the emergency room. There they meet Maddie, a nine-year-old patient with appendicitis. Maddie is in pain and feeling nervous about needing emergency surgery. How will Cricket help Maddie cope with an IV poke, surgery, and recovery? Join Cricket and her handler to find out more about Maddie and understand appendicitis! Therapy dogs are specially trained to help kids through medical experiences—from lifting spirits, motivating movement, modeling the power of play, and more. Nonfiction back matter provides more information about medical topics introduced in the books, from acute to chronic issues, while also proving more information about therapy dog programs and the Mayo Clinic Children's Center.