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 was against me. We decided to go to the local animal shelter to visit some kitties and doggies.

Well, we walked into the cat room, and out of nowhere comes this beautiful black fluffy creature that had the most beautiful coat of hair. I picked him up, and he wrapped his paws around my neck and quickly fell asleep. I looked at him and noticed his eyes were strange-looking.

We inquired about him and learned he was scheduled to be euthanized because no one wants a partially blind cat that had a horrible disease as a kitten. I looked at the receptionist and said to her, "He's coming home with me." She smiled so big and knew he would be in a good home. We knew that being partially blind, his other senses would be increased, but little did we know how much.

We moved to Arizona in March of 2010. Smokey was never a carrier cat, so during the 1600-mile journey from Illinois, he held my right hand the entire way. He kept me calm; he would grab me when he sensed I was stressed or frustrated. He knew when something was not right with me and how to keep me level.

In April 2013, my dad passed away unexpectedly. I came home from work that day in tears, and my little Smokey sensed I was having a bad day and came up to me. He meowed loudly so I could hear him. I sat down, and he came up and smelled my breath. What he did next was so touching that I knew he was my heart forever. He took his paw and put it on my cheek ever so gently.

Smokey passed away recently. My heart is broken, but I know he is free in heaven.

Story submitted by Christie F. from Glendale, Arizona.

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