Abby's Story: Sadly, Abby was given up by a family going through a divorce where they could no longer keep her or her canine companion. I found her through Helping Paws Animal Shelter in Woodstock IL. So in 2007 at age 10, I gave Abby a 2nd chance to spend her remaining years in a warm and loving home with me.

I was so fortunate to have you part of my life for 10 years. After I lost my Kitty Alice, my home was so lonely and quiet - I needed purpose and someone to care for and that opportunity came when I saw you at a local shelter. I remember you were in a cage separate from all the other kitties - as you weren't very sociable; you didn't seem to want others around. After being told your story and how you ended up at a shelter, I could understand; being separated from probably the only home and family you knew. As it turns out we were a good match and you quickly accepted a new home. Even after we moved out of my condo and in with family in 2013, you adjusted well living with my brothers. In fact you came to enjoying them and often preferred their laps to mine, made me jealous (haha) but at bed time you were mine to cuddle with.

You were in a gift from Linda Simmons, my friend in Algonquin. She joined me on my visit to Helping Paws We looked around the cat den and she in usual fashion visited with all the kitties. She always loved that, wishing she could give a home to each and every kitty in the place. Then I spotted you alone in that cage. We were placed in a room where we could get acquainted while Linda stepped out. I quickly made up my mind to bring you home.

Once I advised attendant of my decision she told me the cost of bringing you home was much less than initially told with reason there was a special on adoptions that day. Later I found out that when Linda stepped out, she made arrangements to pay for adoption costs without my knowledge and what I paid went to donation for shelter. So that made your homecoming even more special as you were my gift. And I remember the funny way you thanked us for selecting you. Since I drove, Linda was going to hold you coming home; but apparently you had a full bladder and decided to let go in Linda's lap. She was so understanding about it all.

You brought joy into my life and laughter and sweet memories. But then came the pain of losing you to renal failure. Though we had 10 years - they weren't enough. I miss you so much sweet girl.

Please also visit Alice, Mariah and Sasha Joy.