Ruby

when i adopted Ruby in 2013, she had a condition called feline stomatitis, basically she was allergic to the plaque buildup on her teeth, so i had to brush them. she hated it. she had a few extractions overtime, until in 2017, she had the rest of her teeth extracted and became toothless, which is a funny way for a cat to be. she didn't mind, she liked it better that way, plus she could chew on me all she wanted and it wouldn't hurt me!

in july of 2024, Ruby and i settled into my new apartment in rhode island after moving by car all the way from austin, texas. it was a harrowing journey, and just about everything that could have gone wrong, did. but the two of us made it there along with my roommates, to my now deeply beloved town of Providence. i am so grateful to have had my emotional support kitty there by my side through such a difficult milestone.

in august of 2024, shortly after landing in the new city, still being kicked in the head by life every other day, ruby fell ill, and was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. she declined so quickly, i spent hours and hours just holding her and crying and begging her to be okay. but sadly, my heart would be ripped to shreds as the vets told me her chances of surviving the surgery she'd need to save her kidneys, and i had to make the decision to let my girl go with dignity, in my arms, instead of on an operating table in a cold room surrounded by strangers.

Ruby changed my life. i certainly would not be here without her; countless days in my teenage years struggling with mental health, staying on this earth only because my Ruby loved me and needed me. she held me until she knew i was strong enough for her to go. i will be grateful to her for the rest of my life, as her ghost follows me through my trials and tribulations, and my happy moments, too. in fact, the very morning after we said goodbye, i finally got a job offer for the first time since arriving in providence. that job has kept me fed & busy ever since, and i always thank my Ruby for that.