My name is Lancelot!

Dear Lancelot,

I write this as you lay beside me.

I remember when I first learned about you. It was an urgent plea on Next Door from the shelter, saying your time was running out. I didn't really know much about cats, having cared mostly for dogs in the past, but I offered to foster you the moment I saw that post.

I remember when I picked you up from the shelter. How you sat in your crate looking at me. How your mouth made meowing motions but no sound came out. My heart melted a little at your silent meows.

I remember bringing you home, opening your crate as I sat beside you on the bed. I know some cats take time to adjust to new surroundings so I was prepared to give you space. But you immediately crawled onto my lap and purred the loudest purrs I'd ever heard as I petted you.

We went through a lot together in the months that followed. And I bet it was nothing compared to what you went through the months you stayed at the shelter. You were so listless those first months, barely moving every day, and just skin and bones. Although I could tell you were hungry, eating caused you pain so you were scared to even approach food. And you were a master hider. I had to put a loud bell on you because you found hiding spots I never knew existed.

Looking back, now that I know the real you, I understand just how much pain you must've been in all that time. That you suffered so greatly and for so long hurts my heart. But what an astounding trooper you were throughout it all. Despite how awful you must've felt, you remained so gentle and sweet.

It's been 4 weeks now as I write this that your health started to improve. 8 vet visits, an ultrasound, biopsy, several blood tests, and surgery to have all of your teeth extracted. You've been through so much in such a short time, but finally I've gotten to see the real Lancelot. And what a delight you are.

I love how you sometimes jump on the bed and sleep beside us. How you curl up in the crook of an arm, or rest your body next to ours.

I love how silly you are when you swat at dangling string or rub up against catnip toys.

I love how you follow me around the house, from room to room, often running up ahead of me a little as if to say, "I'm gonna get there before you!", and then running the other way as soon as I turn around.

I love how you sit in the yard with me as I'm typing away on my laptop or gardening. How mellow you are and content to watch the passersby.

I love how you let me put a harness on you and attempt to take you on a walk because I think all cats have a little bit of dog in them.

I love how, when I'm in the other room with the dog, who we keep separated from you, you wait right in front of the door until I come out so that you can be by my side again. My little shadow, my sidekick.

I love YOU, you funny, sweet cat, with the silent meows that every once in a while turn into the littlest squeaks. I can't believe the changes I've witnessed in you these past few weeks. Every day has been a gift. I almost can't bear to watch the old video of you at the shelter now because it reminds me of your pain. I hope your new family never has to see you like that. But if they do, I hope they will do all they can to take care of you and help to make you feel better. You may have special needs, but I hope they realize that you're worth it, that you deserve the best.

You're now ready for adoption. This was my end goal from day one, my purpose in your life. I'm thrilled you've gotten to this point, and that I had the privilege of getting you there. I'm going to miss you so much. But the Lancelot-shaped hole you'll leave in my heart will be fair exchange for knowing that you'll fill somebody else's heart.

I am filled with gratitude for having known you,
Your Foster Mum


(Lancelot has FIV and stomatitis, both of which are under control with the help of medication, given with high quality wet food.)