Jazz was our foster cat from Our Lady of Mercy's Catnip Cottage in Summerville, SC since early 2004. She was a long term placement because she was a feral kitty who needed intense socialization in order to get to a point where she would have been ready to be adoptable. When she first came to us, she hid in the spare room under the bed for a long time before she finally ventured out into the hall outside the room, and then she scampered back in whenever one of us walked by. She slowly made progress, though, and before her death from liver failure, she would sit inches from us instead of feet, take treats from our hands, and even sometimes lick our fingers and tolerate a pat. She used to like to sit in the living room with us on the furniture, and frequently she and I would sit next to each other on the loveseat. She was coming along so well, and really trusting us more than ever before, when she was tragically struck down.
Jazz died in my arms at the veterinarian's clinic where she was gently put to sleep after it was determined that there was nothing more that could be done for this sick and suffering kitty. I was so glad I could be there for her in her last moments on this earth. I took her home and we buried her under a flowering bush. Our house full of cats seems strangely empty now without Jazz circulating about. But, her memory lingers. She was such a very special kitty. She went against her feral nature and trusted us, and I think she loved us and our cats. We will never forget you, Jazz, you beautiful, noble kitty. We love you, and may God take you to Him where there is no more sickness, and no more being afraid. Goodbye for now. |
