Gillie

Remembering Gillie

Today we honor Bluegill “Gillie” (2022-2025), adopted as a yearling into a family experienced with special needs pets. They chose Gillie quickly, fully aware of her severe vision issues and potential for later health challenges. Medically stabilized, Gillie joined the family on her first birthday, becoming a beloved family member, along with their other kitties, and her best friend, Rooster, the family daschund. Subsequently diagnosed with liver disease, she made the most of every day, enjoying toys, laps, the other pets, and the family’s gratitude for the time they shared. Brave and beautiful, she passed at just 3 years of age. Shawna J’s e-mail announcement of this sadness brought dramatic memories to the Magicats volunteers, who remember Gillie’s mind-boggling arrival that summer Saturday in 2022. A frantic call to rescue 10 kittens with 2 frazzled mom cats, all in varying physical condition, abandoned, and busy exploring playground equipment in a city park! Gathered up and divided among 3 foster homes, all were well cared for and went on to good lives. Gillie joined Perch, Chubb and Chinook in the foster home from which they were subsequently adopted. Her foster mom remembers Gillie’s determination to get well, and the family’s welcome when she was well enough to go home. Rescue work is our joy – and sometimes our heartbreak. Today we remember Gillie and share our condolences with this family. We always love great adoptions, but families experienced and willing to work with special needs kitties are especially valued and appreciated as we struggle for the best possible outcomes for our charges. We thank Shawna and her family for sharing their memories.

Betti Carol Taylor