by Hillary Jollimore
(Tampa, FL)

My Buddy, Charlie

Charlie was part Maine Coon and part tabby. He was the size of a bobcat, but much friendlier. Charlie liked to grab my finger and wrap his paw around it. He would always reach out for us when he didn't want us to get up in the morning.

He was abused as a kitten and came to us four years ago as a rescue. At first, he wouldn't go near anyone, but as time went on, he was always following us around, on a lap or in his box.

Charlie used to get up at 0530 and use his paw to bat the cord on the drapes to signal he wanted to go outside. He was so happy in our big caged pool area.

He slowly stopped eating and drinking over the past three days and became very lethargic. We took him to the vet who rehydrated him and sent him home. His labored breathing woke me at 0330 this morning. They gave him laskiks and put him in an oxygen tent. He passed away from heart failure at 0745.

I can't believe he's gone. I can only be greatful for God allowing this wonderful creature to be part of my life, if even just for a short time.