Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Saying goodbye



 Seventeen years ago this improbable kitten came into my life. Born at 1.7 oz, less than half the size you would expect a kitten to be, I was told to expect him not to make it. I didn't think that was acceptable and I fought tooth and nail to save him. I was so new at fostering, there was so much I didn't know but somehow we made it through.


He was special. I loved him hard and giving him up was a challenge. I sat there on adoption day both loving and dreading it. When his folks walked in, looking for an older kitty but enchanted by my boys, I talked to them about kittens and then encouraged them to look at the older kitties. They came back and they wanted my "Peanut". I suggested they adopt "Gonzo" who was a good fit for him and the deal was done. Their new mom promised to give me updates.


I was really quite shocked when she did. So many people promise that and so few follow through or they think one update is.. IDK, bothering me? (Totally not!!) but Ann reached out to me once a year or so (sometimes more, sometimes less) to let me know things were going well. She shared a few of their challenges and several of their joys.


I was so thrilled earlier this month when she included me in their 17th birthday. The photo made me laugh. It was hard to see Treads declining, but I knew it was happening so it wasn't a shock.

What was a shock was just a few weeks later to learn of his passing.

It has been seventeen years since I held him, and I am reduced to a puddle at this news. While I am thrilled he lived so long, and happy that he was a part of my life throughout, the idea of no more photos and updates about him......

Yeah, I loved that cat.. oh who am I kidding, I love that cat.. he was a special soul, that is for certain..

My heart goes out to Miles for the loss of his brother and for his human peeps who miss him dearly. - and while it is out, I think I'll just go mainline some chocolate and grab a box of tissues and sob..

20 comments:

  1. We're truly and deeply for his passing. Expected or not, it's still unbearably sad and oh so difficult, particularly, we suspect, because he had such a rough start and you fought so hard for his life. Our thoughts and purrs to his forever family and to you, his first human "mom."

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  2. we are very sorry. Godspeed your journey to heaven Treads; hugs to Miles, both moms and your family ♥♥♥♥♥

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  3. Farewell, Angel Treads.
    Hugs and purrs.

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  4. I'm so sorry to hear about this. Sending virtual hugs and good wishes. {{To Connie}}

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  5. That's so very sad and we're so very sorry to hear that news. Mega hugs from all of us.

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  6. Purrs to their family and you. Doesnt matter how long, they keep a piece of our hearts.

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  7. I am sorry to hear this. For you and for his family.

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  8. Such sad news. I am so sorry. XO

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  9. I'm so sorry. When you foster a kitty, it's really for life, even after they go home.

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  10. We're so sorry that Treads was needed at the Bridge. Sending you and his family much love and gentle purrs.

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  11. My deepest condolences to Treads' family. What a sweetie he was. He will truly be missed by his loving family and he had such a wonderful life with them. Thank you, Connie, for saving his life when he was just a teeny weeny kitten.

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  12. Ah, those tears have been waiting since the first time you held him. Part of him is always with you. Have a really good cry.

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  13. Deepest sympathy to you and Tread’s family, he was a lucky little guy to be so loved. What a bittersweet story, I’m sure it makes fostering all worthwhile. Fly free sweet boy. 💙🌈🐾😿

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  14. You gave him 17 years because of your tireless work. That's something special.

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  15. We are sorry to learn of the loss of this special kitty - but you helped make his wonderful long, loved life possible., Purrayers to all who love him, especially his brofur Miles.

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  16. Such a sad and moving post

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  17. Sorry to hear of Tread's passing - he definitely lived an amazing life considering the rough start he had. Wishing you and his forever parents peace in knowing you gave him all you could.

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  18. We're so sorry to hear of Tread's passing. We send you comforting purrs and gentle headbonks. Purrs

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  19. I am so very sorry for your loss. My Zoey, with me 7 years had to be rehomed and then had a new home for another 7 years but stayed in my heart always ... the loss is no less.

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