Three little foster kittens helped make a dream come true for a very special woman.
In early November, CatRescue 901, an animal rescue based in Sydney, Australia, received a very special request from a family in Kellyville Ridge NSW.
"My mum (Kathy) is terminally ill. Her 65th birthday is on the 15th of November and it will be her last. She is an animal lover through and through and has passed that down to me," Gemma, Kathy's daughter, wrote in her message. "She worked as a kennel hand at a vet for many years, and I grew up always fostering kittens over Christmas as she didn't want them to be in cages."
"We are not in a position to adopt and we can't foster due to the level of care my mum needs. But I was really wanting to surprise her for her birthday with a home visit of some playful kittens. It would bring her so much joy and it really would be making a last wish come true."
Jenny Storaker, co-director of CatRescue 901, saw the message and contacted Kirstie, a foster volunteer, right away. "Immediately, Kirstie said she would love to do it," Jenny told Love Meow.
Kirstie who has three beautiful kittens and their cat mom in her care, was so enthusiastic about helping. They worked out a day for the special event, and on November 7th, Kirstie took the feline trio (Fudge, Cookie and Brownie) and set out on a mission to make Kathy's day.
"When I arrived (that morning), Kathy had no idea I was coming and she was so surprised. She had the biggest smile on her face," Kirstie shared with Love Meow.
The three rambunctious kittens came right out of the carriers and were ready to play. Kathy was so overjoyed that she got out of her wheelchair to meet the tiny feline guests. She sat down on the floor, so she could be up close and personal with the tabbies.
"There was a whole range of emotions throughout the visit, talking about past cats they have owned and helped," Kirstie shared.
The kittens were running around the room, playing with toys and hopping onto Kathy's lap, bestowing on her some kitten love. They offered some cuddles and filled the room with their rumbling purrs.
There was no shortage of laughter that morning. The little mischief-makers played to their hearts' content, and Kathy was completely enamored by them.
"It was such a pleasure to spend the morning with Kathy and her family," Kirstie shared with Love Meow. "Rescue is rewarding in so many more ways than just helping kittens and cats in need."
The three feline sisters really enjoyed this special time with Kathy and even tried to nuzzle under her jacket for a snuggle.
Fudge, Cookie and Brownie uplifted the spirits for the beautiful family that day.
"(The rescue) truly made a dream come true for my mum. We had such a beautiful day as a family. We will cherish this forever," Gemma wrote to CatRescue901.
With the help from the tabby kittens, Kathy had her wish come true. She smiled wide and big that morning, and her heart was full.
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