On behalf of the Board of Directors and myself, I’d like to offer our supporters our sincere hope that all of you, your families and friends, are safe and healthy.  The COVID-19 Pandemic has wreaked havoc on our lives in ways I do not think any of us could have imagined, leaving us with so much uncertainty and so many challenges to face.  I know many of us were fortunate enough to find comfort in sharing our stay-at-home time with our companion animals – some of whom enjoyed having their humans around, others maybe not so much!  Regardless of such, our companions definitely enrich our lives, which leads me to this month’s focus.

In recognition of pet appreciation week (June 1 thru 7), I’d like to express appreciation for just one of my many pets – Marmalade.  As some of you may know, I ran a large animal rescue for many years prior to founding Harley’s Hope Foundation.  One of my numerous foster failures involved two adorable orange kittens named Marmalade and Ace.  They came to my home at just 8 weeks of age because the previous owner’s husband threatened to harm them if she didn’t get rid of them.  So, my cat coordinator at the time asked if I could foster.

Ace, the female kitten, had a cancerous tumor removed from her head when it was discovered during her spay procedure.  Her brother, Marmalade, was the clumsiest kitten I had ever seen, but both were adorable.  Ace recovered from her condition, but before they could be adopted, Marmalade broke his leg.  After nursing Ace through her cancer scare, then nursing Marmalade through his surgery and recovery, my family and I decided they were already in their forever home.

Sixteen years later, we had to say goodbye to Ace as she developed a serious condition that couldn’t be treated.  Her brother, Marmalade turns 17 years old on June 19th and still sleeps with me like he did as a kitten.  My sons, both grown now, used to complain that I loved the cat more than them.  Not true of course, but I do consider Marmalade to be my third child.

What do I appreciate about Marmalade?  His unconditional love no matter what.  His desire to be near me, even when I’m very cranky.  The fact that his mere presence cheers me up during the roughest of days.  Him listening to me complain about humans and how badly we sometimes treat one another.  And, the joy he and his sister have provided over so many years.  

Now, this is not to say I don’t appreciate all my other fur babies and their unique and loving qualities, but some companions just take hold of a special place in your heart and never let go.  Here’s hoping you all have a special companion animal in your life that you can appreciate this week and all the weeks of their lives.