July 25th, 2011



Our cat Freedom ("The Cat Rogers", name given to him by our CVS pharmacy) died today.

He was born on 10/03/1992, the first day of my retirement, hence  the name Freedom.



We had him for just under 19 years (133 years human life), more than many marriages last.

He was the kitten who set himself on fire, the cat who would sing opera after eating a good meal, and who would scurry away to places unknown during thunderstorms.



He was also the cat that could brighten the dark days, nuzzle you and make you forget your worries, and warm you on cold winter nights.



Freedom was the only cure that could stop my ever racing mind by just laying on my chest and allowing me to pet him.



He was also the cat that would wake you 3 or 4 times a night with a gentle paw to the face and if no response, a head butt to any body part uncovered or a gentle nip all designed just to get us to feed him.



His last years were filled with daily intravenous fluid injections, weekly epogen injections, and five daily medications, but he took them all in an ever slowing stride, and just went on eating, drinking, peeing and pooping (sometimes out of the box) and bringing us immense joy and love.



I hope there is a cat heaven so Freedom can run and jump and play again like a kitten and be free.



In life, he gave us 19 years of freedom and joy, and in death he gives us the freedom to not have to worry on a daily basis, "Is he okay?"



Today I feel a void and my heart is sad!

I will miss him terribly!



Love,

Mel



My mind goes to watching Freedom and Mel asleep on the couch together.  Both are resting in the same position, Arm (or Paw) over the eyes, gently turned on the side, pillow just above the head.  My thoughts go to opening can after can of Fancy Feast, trying to find the one that will tempt him when he was having one of his "off" days. 



For our entire married life, Mel and I have always included a cat: Pupick, Tiny, Tushy, Lacey, and Freedom.  Of the bunch, Freedom spoke to us, allowed us to love him, and really loved us back.  We'll mourn him and miss him.

Love,

sherry



-- 

"Our Future's In Sight, Come Join The Fight"