This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

In 2007, I was longing to have another child, but my body wasn't cooperating. We decided to visit our local animal shelter to spend some time with the cats and dogs. When we walked into the cat room, out of nowhere came this beautiful, fluffy black creature with the most gorgeous coat.

Photo: Christie F

I picked him up, and he immediately wrapped his paws around my neck and fell fast asleep. As I looked at him, I noticed something unusual about his eyes. We asked about him and learned that he was partially blind due to a terrible illness he had suffered as a kitten. Sadly, he was scheduled to be euthanized because nobody wanted to adopt him.

I looked at the receptionist and said, "He's coming home with me."

She smiled from ear to ear, knowing he would be going to a loving home.

We knew that because Smokey was partially blind, he might rely more heavily on his other senses. But we had no idea just how remarkable those senses would turn out to be.

In March 2010, we moved from Illinois to Arizona. Smokey was never a cat who liked being in a carrier, so during the entire 1,600-mile journey, he held my right hand. He kept me calm, grabbing my hand whenever he sensed I was stressed or frustrated. Somehow, he always seemed to know when something wasn't right with me, and he knew exactly how to help me feel better.

In April 2013, my dad passed away unexpectedly. I came home from work that day in tears, completely devastated. My little Smokey sensed that I was having a terrible day and came over to me. He meowed loudly to get my attention.

I sat down, and he approached me and sniffed my breath. What he did next was so touching that I knew he would have my heart forever.

He gently lifted his paw and placed it ever so softly against my cheek.

It was such a simple gesture, but it meant more to me than words could ever express. Smokey had an incredible way of knowing when I needed comfort, and in that moment, he gave me exactly what I needed.

Smokey passed away recently, and my heart is broken. I miss him terribly, but I find comfort in believing that he is now free in heaven.

I will always cherish the love we shared and the beautiful memories he left behind. Smokey may have been the cat I rescued that day in 2007, but in so many ways, he rescued me, too.

SHARE YOUR OWN RESCUE STORY

Story submitted by Christie F from Glendale, AZ.

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!