THANK YOU NOTES

In Times We Trust, She Trusted Us Too

Despite difficult times, our cat helped us through it.

Dear Skye,

It may seem strange, but I thought of you when I thought about sending a thank you note to someone special.

You came into our lives shy of six years ago by good fortune that someone else gave you up. I presume that’s why you were at the shelter that day. However, you may have been a stray, in fact, because nobody knew anything personal about you or your sister. And you weren’t talking.

When dad and I came to choose a cat to rehome, we didn’t know a frightened kitten would one day bring us so much joy and comfort. We came to bring home a pet, and in many ways, brought home a friend.

Let’s be honest. You were a little anxious and aloof at first. Trust didn’t come easy. We can’t know how life treated you in the past. All we knew was that you were safe with us, and you grew to know this in time. We loved and cared for you the best way we knew how and didn’t ask for much in return.

You were a feisty youngster. Throwing tantrums when you didn’t get your way, like when we switched you from kitten to adult food. I don’t know what the fuss was about, but I’m presuming the kitten food was full of yummies that made it tastier.

Also, do you remember when I’d try to put you in the carry case to visit the vet? You didn’t like that either. You gave me a heck of a time catching you. Chasing you around the room was not my best look, and by the time you were safely inside the bag, I felt like I had run a marathon.

We loved you unconditionally. We enjoyed whenever you’d come for attention, even though these times were far and few between. But we knew you appreciated our company. If we listened carefully, we could hear your gentle purrs. Of course, you’ve never been a cuddly cat, but still, you were never far away.

Skye, who would have guessed your shy, timid ways would eventually lessen, and you would grow into the loving cat you are today. Although still easily spooked, regardless of where I am, you aren’t ever far away. You like to lounge on the back of the couch when I do my couch-potato routine by watching too much TV, and you sleep near me in your cat tree during my long hours of writing — even when your eyes can hardly handle the light during the wee hours of the night.

Why did I choose to thank you above everyone else? I chose you because I am so grateful for you. I appreciate you for how sweet you are and for how grounding you’ve been for me these past two years through dad’s health concerns — and there have been many.

When dad had his liver transplant, it was a terrifying time. I apologize for spending so much time away from you while he was in the hospital. You could have thrown the water and food dish I left for you as you did as a kitten, but you were gracious and took my days of absence in stride. I did what I could to be there for you while being at the hospital for dad. I know you didn’t understand what was going on, and that’s what made your patience sweeter.

When dad came home, you spread yourself thinly to accompany whichever one of us needed to lean on your good nature more. At first, dad slept a lot, but that didn’t stop you from lying by his side. Sleeping is one of your favourite past-times. I know dad appreciated the comfort you brought him just by being you. You stayed close and asked for nothing in return.

Nobody knew just two weeks after dad came home, he’d be rushed back to the hospital for emergency surgery, and the cycle started again. During this time, I didn’t leave you for even a day. I greatly appreciated your presence by my side. Watching you sit by the door looking for dad was difficult because you didn’t understand my explanation, but I tried.

When dad came home days later, you began your sitting vigil routine again, and all was back on track. Do you remember? That is back on track until months later when dad had to undergo a double hernia operation.

Poor dad — emotionally fragile me — confident you. Dad had always been active and healthy. But, unfortunately, all these medical hardships were taking their toll on him. The one benefit from all this was how much time we spent at home thanking God for you. Petting your soft coat was stress-reducing, and your constant companionship was noteworthy. Too bad dad’s difficult journey wasn’t over.

You must remember how only one week after being back at work after his surgery, dad came down with COVID. It doesn’t seem fair that so much happened to such a wonderful guy. Your dad was immuno-compromised, and despite the first vaccine, he still caught the virus. Yet, somehow you knew to stay clear. I don’t know if you realized that cats aren’t immune or if you felt I needed you more, but during this time, I’m so glad you and I further bonded.

I’m happy today that he’s recuperated and has got his second vaccine. I love seeing you and dad’s relationship soaring as he comes home from work and you greet him at the door. When he feeds, waters, or gives you treats, your purring is so loud throughout the condo. Whenever I’m around, you lay on your back and expose your belly for petting showing us you are a happy, content cat.

We love you, Skye!

Before dad’s transplant, I didn’t know if I had it in me to be a worthy caregiver. With too much anxiety over medical issues, I didn’t trust myself not to pass out or to run away from providing his care, but you kept me grounded and balanced. You helped show me that I am stronger than I thought through your unwavering faith in me.

I don’t know what’s in store for any of us — life can throw curve balls — but at least I know we will be in it together, forever.

Thank you for your love, support, and unshakeable companionship during our time of need. Dad and I are eternally grateful.

Love, Mom