Tuesday, June 3, 2008

One Tear-Filled Tuesday

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Jerry Lee's trip to the vet yesterday provided no good news for us. After talking with the doctor, who is the perfect balance of compassion and logic, we decided that sadly, little Jerry Lee would have to be put down. It was such a hard decision to come to because on the surface, he seems fine. But inside, things are very, very messed up.

Kim brought him home from the vet and we took him out to play in the back yard. His toes had never felt grass or dirt before, so we thought that would be a great way to spend his last afternoon on earth.

He had so much fun bouncing around and exploring the yard, pouncing on bugs, and watching Kim's cats, Nate and Tate chase and leap after their feather toy. We invited Sue over, so she could see him one last time too. When he started getting tired, we sat in the grass and took turns letting him sleep in our hands, laps, on our necks,, wherever he wanted to snuggle in.

He spent the evening romping with his siblings, and after a goodnight sleep and good breakfast, we delivered him to the Doctor, and said good bye.

For all us, in the back of our heads, we have always known that this would be the most likely out come for this precious little fellow, and because of this, I think he always got a few more pets, kisses and snuggles that the other kitties in the litter. So even though his life was brief, I assure you, it was good.

I want thank all of you for all the love, well wishes and support. I always told Jerry Lee about all the fans he had out there, loving him from afar.

I also want to thank Dr Sperlich at Browns Point Vet for gently guiding us through through this difficult decision making process.

Thank you everyone, for being there for all of us.

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162 comments:

  1. oh no.

    I am so, so sorry.

    {{{everyone}}}

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  2. This is so heartbreaking. He looks so healthy and happy in those photos.... RIP, little Jerry Lee.

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  3. Much love and light to all of the IBKC Foster Parents during this time and may your hearts be lifted knowing that you did truly provide
    that little blessing with the most wonderful home that he could have ever had during his short stay. He truly tasted heaven before he arrived there.

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  4. Aw rest in peace little one. You go and find my baby Atticus, he will show you a good time.

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  5. thanks for giving him a good little life

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  6. Awww... almost makes me cry. It must have been so hard for you! I'm very sorry. Such a little sweetie. Rest in peace Jerry Lee. Heavenly headbonks to you.

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  7. Oh dear, this is such sad news... Lots of good thoughts for everyone at IBTK at this difficult time. It's some consolation that his too-short life was filled with so much love. Jerry Lee, you can go and bug my Pous as much as you want, he'll like playing Grandpa to another polydactyl kitty!

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  8. This is the part that I hate, and the part that I would imagine is really hard for you as foster parents. My heart goes out to you and for everyone who follows this blog. Your account of this little one's last day just let out a waterfall of tears, but I know that ending his pain and suffering trumps any desires we may have to keep this lovely furball alive. I hope what I just wrote does not sound so matter-of-factly because that is not the spirit in which this was written. It breaks my heart.

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  9. Just devestating, you don't want him to suffer but still, it's not fair.

    Thinking of all the IBKC foster parents - you guys really did give him a wonderful life - there is no doubt.

    I imagine he is in a much better place chasing butterflies and romping in the grass.

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  10. What a hard day. I'm so glad Jerry was able to have love, attention, hugs and kisses in the time he was with you. He was a lucky little guy to have spent the time with you that he did. You gave him life & love!! ;o) <3 <3 <3 xoxoxo to the IBKC group.

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  11. Addio, bambino.

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  12. I would write more, but there's not much more I can really write than this:

    The news is :(
    The pictures are :)
    Poor kitty :(

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  13. Oh no...nooo.....

    How incredibly difficult for you. My heart goes out to everyone at IBKC.

    Jerry Lee...I still love you.

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  14. Bernadette probably laughed out loud when she wrapped her little wings around him. I hate this so much and yet I believe with all my heart that what happened was the very best way for him. We are so blessed that we can be so very compassionate with these babies who come into our lives. I see so many people suffer pain and terrible indignity. There was none of that for this tiny guy who will be in our hearts forever as an example of all that is good, even in its imperfection.
    Tremendous heaps of love to all of you who made his life (and ours) so delightful.

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  15. I am so sorry. :(

    I recently lost my own 11-year-old cat and really can't imagine having to deal with that sort of loss and pain as often as you do, with this job that you've taken on. I'm so glad there are people out there like you who love and care for these little kittens. Jerry Lee's life may have been short, but it was clearly full of love and care.

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  16. I'm so sorry for your loss. Hugs to you at IBKC.

    "Rise up slowly, Angel;
    it's hard to let you go."

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  17. Just like when I read the sad news about sweet little Bernadette I can´t stop crying... He was such a beautiful little kitten... You truly gave him a perfect last day.

    I admire you all so much!!! I wish I had the strength to do what you do, helping all the little cats and kittens.

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  18. I'm so sorry. Jerry Lee was a beautiful little guy.

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  19. Goodbye, Jerry Lee. I loved your tailless little bum, and the fact that you look so much like one of my boys must have at that age. I'm glad you had a good last day.

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  20. I'm heartbroken! Such a sweet little guy... Best wishes!

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  21. I'm so sorry, IBKC, but bless you for taking such good care for beautiful little Jerry Lee.

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  22. Thank you guys for everything you did for little JL and for your amazing commitment to all the kitties you take care of. He was a very lucky little guy.

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  23. my heartfelt condolences to you all at ibkc. you made the right choice and gave him such a wondeful and loving home. he couldn't have asked for anything else. may the other itty bitties help heal the pain....
    elise

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  24. Oh I am so sad! I know that with as much love as you give each and every one of your kitties, your heart must be breaking. Much love and comfort to you.

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  25. Thank you for filling Jerry Lee's tiny life with love, fun, comfort and hugs. He did indeed taste heaven in your home, and now I truly believe he is there, along with little Bernadette and all the kitties each of us have loved and lost.
    Dear IBKC, I so admire what you do for these kittens - yes, they are such fun and it is so rewarding to place them in loving Forever Homes, but there are times like these that are so heartbreaking. Tonight, let's all resolve to hold our loved ones (of both the four and two legged persuasion) a bit closer in tribute to Jerry Lee who lived his life in love.

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  26. Thank you for loving all of earth's little creatures. My thoughts are with you as you and the kittens deal with this loss. May you find some peace knowing that JL is curled up warm and happy in his new home...

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  27. :*(

    I am so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you. What a difficult decision it must have been. RIP, beautiful boy.

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  28. Oh, how this made me cry! What a sweet little guy. The great consolation is that he had such a wonderful, if brief life, and he was given so much compassion and love. For that, you are to be truly thanked.

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  29. I just know he and Bernadette are in a very special place being watched over by angels bearing catnip and soft pillows.

    There is a special place in heaven for all of our foster kittens gone too early.

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  30. I am so sorry that you had to make such a hard decision. Much compassion coming your way. And of course, tears.

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  31. The hardest decisions to make are the ones that help others and hurt us. You loved him and did the right thing, even though we all have broken hearts.
    I miss him already. I am so sorry for all of our loss.

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  32. Oh no, poor baby boy. I'm sorry to hear the news. You guys gave him a lifetime of love and cuddles, that's for sure.

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  33. sad, sad day.

    rest easy little one.

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  34. You did the right thing and a short happy life is better than a long miserable one. Poor little guy. Thanks for the photos. And thanks for just existing and being you. All creatures capable of feeling pain or joy deserve to have someone care about them. Jerry Lee was in good hands.

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  35. Farewell Jerry Lee!

    He is such a gorgeous little man, and so fortunate to have landed with you guys. So many kitties end up being dumped but Jerry Lee had so much love which is wonderful.

    I've been following IBKC for a little while now (I'm a cat lover) and it always brings me some joy and a chuckle or two.

    Thanks for your good work and here's hoping that in kitty heaven, all cats have tails. :)

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  36. Thank you, Laurie, for sharing him with us - the good and the bad. As unfair as it is for such a wonderful thing to be taken from you (and, in a small, pale way, us), thank you also for never failing to do the right thing.

    My heart goes out to you and to everyone who knew and loved Jerry Lee, up close or from afar. Make sure Beulah and her babies know that the love coming their way is not lessened, but multiplied exponentially.

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  37. I'm so very sorry for the sad loss. Thank you for giving him such a good, if short, life.

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  38. Heaven: tiny angel on the way. Take good care of him until his fans catch up.

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  39. 'Til we meet again, Jerry Lee, let sweet Bernadette, darlin' Atticus and my own tiny Neville be your special playmates! Grandpa Pous will take good care of you all.

    Don't worry little guy, here on terra firma, the whole IBKC gang will do our best to keep Laurie and Craig's spirits up. We'll keep telling them you know they loved you enough to keep you from pain and fear and that they made your days here just wonderful.

    We're going to miss you, sweetie, but we're smiling through our tears thinking about you cavorting with the kittehs we have loved in our lives.

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  40. Oh, I'm so sorry you lost Jerry Lee. You made his short little life very happy though, and no one could have done more for him than you did.

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  41. so sorry to hear that, Laurie, but he did get to spend wonderful time with his siblings and his wonderful foster family. It's all the love that you put into this endeavor that makes it all the more that my heart breaks.

    Purry thoughts to all, especially Jerry Lee,

    Robin

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  42. Tear-filled, indeed. Bless you all at IBKC for doing right by Jerry Lee, for making that devastating decision that every pet lover has to make at some time in the lives of our precious ones.

    Your dedication to this sweet little boy is evident, but then to us, his extended family, you give the gift of photographing his last day. I'm so grateful to you for that I can't tell you.

    Laurie, I've felt this way for a while, but this cinches it - you've made this more than a great blog. You've given it heart and soul and love in the best sense of the word.

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  43. RIP little man. <3

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  44. Ow. I am so very sorry. I cried, too.

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  45. Goodbye Jerry Lee, we will miss you.

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  46. Thank you for giving him a home and lots of love and thank you for sharing him with all of us.

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  47. oh no! i'm so sorry! :( this made me cry. poor little jerry lee.

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  48. {{{{{{Jerry Lee}}}}}}} may kitty heaven be filled with all the things your heart desires! Hugs and soft kitty kisses for all of you!

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  49. I'm so sorry. Thank you for making his time so happy, and for letting us share in the joy of knowing him.

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  50. I cried as I read the news about Jerry Lee....and mostly because of the beautiful and intimate way you photograph & write about the babies. I feel a personal loss today because of the incredible way you share all the triumphs and sadness of their lives. THANK YOU to the IBKC for all you do - not just for the IBKs, but also for us out here in cyber land who get to know them because of you.

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  51. My heart breaks for you. These decisions, though certainly kind and compassionate, are never easy. Take comfort in knowing that you've done the right thing, however difficult.

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  52. This brought tears to my eyes too. I read your blog everyday since I was given the link by a friend about a month ago.
    Poor little man. Hope he finds some friends in his next life.

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  53. I'm a new reader to the Itty Bitty Kitty Committee, but I just wanted to express my deepest regrets for your loss. Jerry Lee looked like a bundle of joy and he would have been adopted in a flash by someone.

    This is probably the hardest thing that foster partents go through. But I was deeply moved by how you described your last afternoon with Jerry Lee and how you let me experience earth for the last moments in his life. It's truly heartbreaking and as I checked your blog daily I wished it didn't turn out this way.

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  54. Dear darling Laurie - you are our heart, and I trust you. I'll go have a cry and a cup of tea, then I can come read the other comments - but I need to thank you for your deep love of our Jerry Lee and ALL the babies, thank you for the beautiful little pictures of our precious, for letting him experience the outside, and on his behalf, thank you for loving him enough to let him ease painlessly away. My beloved Othello and Ra are playing with him right now, and he's with all those cherished cats under the adoring gaze of Bast. Goodbye, our sweet treasure; you gave me so much delight. Laurie - so do you, I truly love you and all the fosterers.

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  55. What a wonderful last day. So sad to hear the news. Thinking of you all!

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  56. RIP, little one. You were so much loved.

    So sorry, Laurie, Sue, and Craig. You gave dear Jerry Lee the best life that a kitten could ask for.

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  57. I'm so sorry for you and little Jerry Lee - in spite of the sadness, he had a spectacular little life!

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  58. Oh no.
    I'm so sorry for you. It must have been an impossibly difficult decision to make. You gave him a wonderful last day, and a wonderful life while he was with you.

    Lots of hugs.

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  59. I'm sorry:( Such a sweet little guy with such a wonderful little life. Rest in peace Jerry Lee....

    -Sarah

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  60. Oh, what terribly, terribly sad news.

    I'm so very sorry, Laurie, for your loss. That Jerry Lee was a cutie! And what a blissful last day you gifted him with...

    I, too, lost a well-loved cat in January. May you take some comfort in all the wonderfully kind thoughts expressed here. I know I do. Animal Lovers are some of the best people on the planet!

    And yes, Bernadette and my Udjat will certainly welcome your little Jerry Lee...

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  61. Love and peace to little Jerry Lee and much good energy and hugs to you and the IBKC foster parents. You are all very special people and the world is a better place for having you in it. Goddess bless, Robin

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  62. I was so very, very sorry to log on today and see that little Jerry Lee didn't make it - your post made me weep. But how lucky he was to have you all to make the last day of his life so filled with love. Thank you for the work you do.

    Blessings,
    Amy

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  63. My condolenses. Kittens are so fragile, despite the massive amounts of energy they have, and that energy never seems to be enough some times. I think you made the right choice. A lifetime full of forcing expressed bladders can be very dangerous with one wrong squeeze. Little Jerry Lee will always be my remembered favorite.

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  64. This made me cry. Oh my goodness. :(

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  65. I am so so sorry. My heart is heavy and i send you and all the other kittens and mama love and healing thoughts.

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  66. I was sadden to hear about Jerry Lee. Give all his siblings lots of love!!

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  67. Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. I know what a difficult decision that is. While he was here, I'm sure he felt how much he was loved. He will be missed.

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  68. *cry* poor little Jerry Lee. I'm glad you made the decision to let him go before he began to deteriorate though. His life was happiness, not dreadful bowel pain and suffering. It doesn't make his passing any easier for you though, I'm sure. (((hugs)))

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  69. Oh no, poor Jerry Lee :'( I've followed him avidly, and I will miss seeing all the precious, precious pictures of this sweet little kitten. May his tiny soul find eternal happiness.

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  70. Oh no, poor Jerry Lee :'( I've followed him avidly, and I will miss seeing all the precious, precious pictures of this sweet little kitten. May his tiny soul find eternal happiness.

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  71. i am so so sorry for Jerry Lee. i've never commented before, but i've been a faithful reader for a while now. reading your blog has given me hope for all the lost and sad little critters in this often times cruel world that somewhere, people like you exist... you give safe haven, so much love and will always do what's in the best interest for your kitties. please know that you are not alone in your sadness. -Beverley

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  72. I have grown up with many pets in my lifetime and yet the one constant i had had in my life is sharing that with a cat. I sincerly extend my heartfelt sympathies to all of you at IBKC. Rest in peace Jerry lee. May you find warmth happiness and lots of treats were you are.

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  73. I just want to send all my love to you and all the IBKC. I can't stop crying thinking about the poor baby and I didn't have the blessing of knowing him in real life, so I can't imagine how big is your pain now...

    At least, he had an amazing life, surrounded by Beulah and his siblings and by you, who loved him and took care of him until the end. I'm sure he's now in kitty heaven, chasing butterflies and jumping on clouds happily.

    Jerry Lee, you were loved by many in your short life. You can't even imagine how much love you took with you when you left. Descansa en paz.

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  74. Much love to you all. What a hard decision, but sounds like it was probably for the best. Though I know it doesn't always feel like that.

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  75. OH My gosh I am SO so sorry to read this... oh god this is so sad. I was really rooting for him. I only recently found your blog (through cuteoverload.com) and have really enjoyed looking at all your pics. I wish I could do what you do (foster kittens that is) but I don't envy you today.

    Thank you for doing the right thing for him - a life of multiple operations, not being well, etc., was what waited otherwise. You showed so much compassion to this little baby. I'm so sorry about him.

    *hugs*
    Sherry in PA

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  76. Oh no...NO...poor little mite.

    I am so sorry for you, but it is wonderful that even though his life was short, he had you to make it loving.

    He will always have a special place in my heart.

    {{{{{laurie}}}}}

    love,
    whiskers

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  77. thank you for giving these kittens such a loving and warm home. i know jerry lee had more love in his short little life than most others

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  78. I'm very sorry for your sadness. What a loving thing you did, to bring him home for an afternoon of big fun and affection. I'm so glad there are people out there like you, who can give of their hearts knowing they'll end up a hurt. You made Jerry Lee's life happy and fun. He knew what it was to be loved. Thank you.

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  79. Poor baby Jerry. Big hugs. Sweet dreams, little one - you were such a good, lovely cat. Rest easy in happy kitty heaven.

    Sorry, Laurie! It must have been a very hard decision.

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  80. Rest in peace, little one.

    Thank you IBKC and company for taking such good care of him during his life. Love and snuggles to you all.

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  81. When I read your very sad news about little Jerry Lee, I remembered those beloved pets I have lost, and shed more than a few tears. At least he knew he was loved, and you never really lose those you love, they live on in your hearts and memories.

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  82. What a shame. This is the hard part of fostering kittens, isn't it?

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  83. I recently found IBKC and have eagerly anticipated each days news. News of little Jerry Lee's problems has touched me and I'm terribly sorry for having to make the decision you did. I know its incredibly hard to make even when you know its the right thing to do. He will be missed, I've loved seeing him grow up. Thank you for sharing their lives with us all.

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  84. Am very sorry to hear this. Poor little baby. My thoughts are with you.

    Jessica

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  85. Chanter, this is a wonderful gallery of pictures of Jerry Lee enjoying the outdoors. It captures his sweetness, kitten spirit of exploration, and indomitable nature beautifully. It's clear what a darling little kitten and how much spirit inhabited that frail body.

    In the first photo, he's sitting up on a gently aged red stair. His big front paws are planted firmly in front of him while he's gazing off to the side, drinking in this exciting new place for a kitten to be, and confident that it's a wonderful place, too.

    In the next, he's prowling in the grass, his polydactyl paws shown off to good advantage. He has a slighly serious expression on his face, the face of a kitten who has to decide what to pounce or sniff or climb next. You know, the big questions.

    In the next three, he's making his way down those same stairs, where the step is almost as big as he is. It's a challenge for a little guy, and if he were a kid, he'd have his tongue sticking out of his mouth in concentration as he handles this. Such an indomitable and confident spirit, even in this little tiny guy. I'm positive that when he reached the bottom step, if there were a thought balloon, it would say "Ta da!"

    In the next, one of Kim's cats, a slender orange marmalade, is sniffing at him and he is returning the sniff with interest. He's totally unafraid, just curious about this new cat. The marmie looks like he approves of the little guy.

    In the one after that, Jerry Lee is again Examining Things. He has his front paws on a shallow planter and we can't see exactly what he's looking at, but it might be a plant with lovely flowers. He's intent on his discovery, in any case. This photo is from more of a distance, so he's framed in a manner that shows just how itty he is, dear little one.

    The next one looks like it might be one of the last photos in this session, since he's looking a bit tired. His eyes are half-closed but he's still looking out at the world.

    He's on the prowl again in the photo after that, stalking on the porch like a very small grey tabby tiger.

    Then he's given in a bit to the excitement and is snoozing on the back of Kim's (?) neck, half tucked into her collar. He's sound asleep and the sun is shining on him. It's a silly, adorable pose and he looks so contented with life and so certain that he is loved.

    In the very last photo, he's straddling a coiled hose whose greenish blue color is almost a perfect match for his eyes. He's looking up, with a "Hug me, love me" expression on his face.

    All in all, these are a testament to both how much he is loved and why, as well as what a good life, full of happiness and playtime and cuddles and exploration he had.

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  86. annf, you've done it again. You've described the pictures in such a clear and loving way. It's so nice to read this thoughtful piece.
    I'm working on looking forward to Wednesday now.

    Goodnight, sweet prince.

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  87. He did have a wonderful life - thank you for giving him that and sharing it with us. The photos of his outdoor explorations are wonderful - such a special kitten to have touched so many people in such a short time.

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  88. just wanted to add my thanks to the list for taking care of him (and all the kitties)

    and sending my support - such hard days for you all. Take care of yourselves.

    Jenny xoxoxo

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  89. This breaks my heart. I pray he'll go straight up to kitty heaven with no stops long the way.
    ((((Hugs))))

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  90. I can just imagine li'l Jerry Lee crossing the Rainbow Bridge wand when he arrived on the other side, turning his sweet face back where he came from and saying....

    What is THAT doing THERE???

    ....after he notices the tail that didn't quite make it to this world with him.

    Thanks for sharing the sad news. Difficult choice, but very compassionate.

    He had as great a life as any kitty could ask for.

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  91. Oooh no... poor little Jerry Lee... so sweet, so cute, already such a character... one of these kittens that make such a deep mark on the humans around you, but leave too soon. I'm so chocked up reading this and watching those gorgeous pictures, I can barely breathe :(

    Our dear little monkey Obi, who left us at just three months, will be showing you around, Jerry Lee.
    Hope the butterflies fly low and the mice are fat and slow over there...

    Hugs, and love, and light to everyone at IBKC

    Virginie

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  92. Laurie and the rest of the IBKC:

    We're here for you. I think you gave the little angel the perfect last day and that you gave him the most wonderful, beautiful life full of love and adventure and fun.

    I hope you see all these comments and know that you are so highly regarded, and so many people are weeping not because they are sad that he's gone, but in gratitude that the little one could have such a wonderful life that was filled to the brim with so much love.

    -Darin, and the kitties Daltrey and Jonah, who would all gladly share a can of tuna with you all!

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  93. Although I had guessed that this would be the end of his life, I am very sad. He was such a cute kitten.
    Hugs to all of you.

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  94. This is so sad and I really can't burst into tears right now because we don't have the safety of cubicles at work.

    Little Jerry Lee looked very cute and very happy to be out in the garden. Thanks IBKC for giving him a great home and lots of love.

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  95. From the moment you took him in, everything you've done in Jerry Lee's life has been full of love, kindness, and compassion. His life was better and sweeter for having known you. You are a wonderful person, and I'm sorry for your loss. *hugs to all of the IBKC* and God bless.

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  96. I don't know how you IBKC foster parents do it. You must be so tender-hearted and so strong at the same time.

    I just went back to look at all of your earlier entries about Jerry Lee and the one about him being your favorite is just heart-breaking.

    I hope that the love of all of Jerry Lee's siblings get you through this tough time.

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  97. I've been following the IBKC for a while now, smiling and enjoying the pictures and the cute kitties. Now I know they've tugged at my heart as well, because I'm in tears. Poor little Jerry Lee. Thank you for what you do, and for giving him a wonderful last day.

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  98. I'm so sorry. Such sadness, but happiness in knowing that he lived with the fine IBKC homes.

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  99. I love reading about the IBKC and the very important and vital work you guys do for these precious kittens/cats. And I can't help if news like this makes me cry and hurt. I can't imagine how it would feel on your side of things, if I feel this way on mine. Jerry Lee was a real sweetheart and I wish him happy journeys, wherever he may be. <3!
    -J

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  100. hugs and purrs,
    what a wonderful way for a special boy to spend his last afternoon.

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  101. GODDAMNIT!

    I am so sorry for your loss and I know Jerry Lee had a good ride.

    I am going to go cuddle my kitty now and be grateful for him. You did all you could for him and I know he knows this.

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  102. Whew... so sorry to hear this news, but blessed that you gave Jerry Lee the best afternoon of his little life! Hugs and more hugs for Laurie & all the foster moms. Bless you for caring so much!

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  103. That's very sad news to read, but you made the right decision for little Jerry Lee. I'm so glad you gave him a great little life whilst he was with you. Fostering has its heartbreaks but these fade when placed against the great work that you do in providing these little souls with such good love and care. RIP Jerry Lee Lovell, I will miss you xx

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  104. Poor little stumpy-rumpied Jerry Lee. Some kitties are just too good for this life. I guess he's off playing with Bernadette. (((hugs))) to the rest of the IBKC.

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  105. I am so sorry to hear this news. I read your blog each day, and it is such a joy to follow the progress of each new batch of kittens. Times like this make it so hard to be an animal lover. Love and hugs to you and the IBK's...and to Jerry Lee.

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  106. Every day we check in on the committee. I'm adding my tears for Jerry Lee. Poor little buddy.

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  107. such a devastating news..I am soooo sorry to hear.Laurie and IBKC you gave JL a wonderful Loving start in life..He was a great kitty and I and all of us will miss him dearly.All my thoughts are with you guys and many thanks for all you do for those wonderful little fellows..Much Love to you Laurie,Craig, Sue and all the kitties -- Jeanne

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  108. No doubt there is a special place in heaven reserved for you. I admire your strength.

    Retread

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  109. I'm trying not to cry in the middle of business organizations after reading this during our five minute break. I know I would be devastated if I had to make a decision like that. May Jerry Lee rest in peace and be as happy wherever he is as he is in the photos you shared with us.

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  110. God loved this little guy so much, He wanted him to come home. God bless you, Jerry Lee.

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  111. I'm so sorry. I'm a new reader and this just breaks my heart. He's so adorable, it's hard to imagine having to make that choice.

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  112. Jerry Lee was a sweet soul and we're all lucky to have known him, even just in your words and pictures. Now please excuse me, there's something in my eye.

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  113. rest in peace sweet little kitty, you were much loved in your short time on this earth.

    Be free

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  114. As hard as it is to type through my tears - I know it is at least ten times harder for you, Laurie and all the IBKC humans! *hugs*

    I loved that little Jerry Lee like he was my own. I've sent a special request to my bebe, Alice, to give JL lots of motherly love on the other side of the bridge.

    and {{{hugs}}} to all the wonderful people who frequent the IBKC and have been as touched by Jerry Lee's life as I have been.

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  115. Hey, people! How about we who are able, make a gift to our local shelter in honor of Jerry Lee and the IBKC. We were so willing to help him if we could, let's help a local critter have a life.

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  116. Meowm's eyes are leaking. It is so sad when one so young and full of life has to go to the bridge. We are so glad that he had all of you to love his so much during his short time here on earth.

    Sending out many purrayers and gentle headbutts to all of you.

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  117. Oh my goodness, I will have to share your blog with my Mother (a fellow cat lover!) They are too precious!! :)

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  118. my heart is broken. how horrible. and how wonderful you are to give him that perfect kitten afternoon.

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  119. {tears. so many tears.}

    i'm so glad he had such a happy kitten afternoon.

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  120. I have been following Jerry Lee's story, and this has left me terribly sad.

    What a wonderful kitten.

    My deepest sympathies and condolences.

    There's gonna be a line eight miles long to say hi to him at the Rainbow Bridge.

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  121. I can't think of anything to say.
    My heart is heavy. I want to cry.

    lmh

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  122. Sometimes, the hardest and most painful decisions for us humans are the best ones for our little furry friends. This little lovebubble put on a brave face for everyone despite the fact that he was suffering inside. He wouldn't want us to be sad right now. Instead, we should all feel honored to have gotten to "meet" such a wonderful kitten. Laurie, it takes a very strong heart to be able to withstand the decision that you needed to make. I am sure that he is thanking you from afar for being able to love him enough to make it.

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  123. It's sad he had to go, but I'm so glad he had some wonderful people to make his life so grand.

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  124. Sweet Laurie, Craig, Kim, Sue, Sarah & Dr Sperlich ~ you are all amazingly dedicated people with hearts of gold. Thanks to all of you for giving our little Jerry Lee the time of his life. These photos are incredible, thanks for sharing them along with his story.

    He is missed but never forgotten.

    I need a hug ~ when you (any of you) can come by the shelter, please share some love. And for those of you who haven't had a hug from Kim, you are missing out. She can cure any sadness, any stress. Kim, where are you when we need you???

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  125. i see that someone suggested donations to the tacoma humane society in jerry lee's name. laurie has posted a link under "friends of the itty bitties". a donation to any animal welfare organization would be a thoughtful gesture in his memory.

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  126. Well, I suppose I needed a good cry. This news took me by surprise just as little Bernadette. I am so sorry for all you ladies who provide the love and care for these babies (and your families too!). Best wishes and lots of hugs from Colorado.

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  127. ~Bless you and bless his little heart~ ~Amanda

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  128. Thank you for doing the right thing for Jerry Lee, no matter how hard it was. I did some reading up on the potential severity of "manx cat syndrome", and I know that the quality of his life would have quickly deteriorated (and was probably already going downhill). You gave him the best gift you could have given him -- love, companionship, other kitties to play with. A beautiful life.

    I am crying now for you and for Jerry Lee, and hoping fervently that the Rainbow Bridge does exist.

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  129. Oh, no. Such a sweet boy and so lively. But sometimes there is no choice. He had a good life, even though short.

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  130. Rest in peace, beautiful little Jerry Lee.
    ML

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  131. RIP jerry lee!!!!!!!!!!! this broke my heart. i'm actually crying at work. i am glad that he did live so well in his short life. nothing gold (or tailless and grey) can stay, clearly.

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  132. bye bye little Jerry Lee - have a safe trip over the Bridge, maybe you will com and play with me when it is my turn to cross? i hope so, you sound like a lot of fun.

    hugs and purrs to the ones left behind xxx

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  133. Oh no! I am so very very sorry. Although it was much too short, his life, because of all of you, was filled with love, happiness, warmth and joy, and his passing was peacefull and painfree. We should all be so lucky.

    You are all in my thoughts.

    RIP, little love bug.

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  134. Farewell little man. We will see you someday at the Rainbow Bridge.

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  135. May you walk and play with all the Angel kitty's and romp and roam and have a blast! Goodbye Sweet Jerry Lee!! Our purrrs ans purrayers are with you during this time!
    Your FL furiends,

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  136. Our love and thoughts are with you.

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  137. Thank you for being brave enough to do the best thing for Jerry Lee and thank you for sharing the sad as well as the happy. Fostering is very rewarding but it certainly can break your heart. Keep up the good work.

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  138. That must have been a hard decision. I am so sorry. Thanks for sharing your journey with all os us.

    www.illusivejoy.wordpress.com

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  139. A precious angel has earned his wings... and left love behind.

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  140. I cried reading this. poor little kitten. rest in peace.

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  141. The outpouring of love on this teeny tiny bloggy is absolutely inspiring. I've done my crying, and now I am able to feel the warmth from all of you going out to Laurie & co., and to Beulah and the Picketts. The suggestion of donations to your local Humane Society or animal rescue in Jerry Lee's honor is a beautiful one.

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  142. I am so sorry. My thoughts are with you. You gave him such a fun-filled and happy life.

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  143. oh no - we're so sorry to hear about this. our Lady is leaking from the face lots. we're all sending love & purrs.
    Grr, Midnight, Cocoa
    Rascal & Riley

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  144. HUGS SHANA!!! And LOTS OF HUGS TO LAURIE AND THE IBKC team!

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  145. Mommy Beans eyes leaked. She haded lots of experience in kittys with no tails and knows that sometimes a rectal prolapse is a bad bad thing but didn't knows of other issues.

    Lots of purrs and headbutts to all you beans!

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  146. I forgot in my previous comment to thank you for sharing these photos with us. I really do feel like I knew him a little in his life as a result. You're a generous bunch, to both the kittens and to us. I wish you all the best.

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  147. Doing the right thing often isn't easy. Thank you for loving this little guy and granting him one fun day before releasing him from what would have turned into a short painful life.

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  148. Thank you for caring so well for poor little Jerry Lee. He seemed very happy, even the last day. I'm sorry he had to go so soon. It's heartbreaking.

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  149. Thank you so much for making sure Jerry Lee's too brief life here on Earth was as happy and safe and comfortable as possible.

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  150. God bless you little Jerry Lee. I know the angels are loving you and playing with you in heaven.

    And God bless you Laurie and Craig et al. Your hearts are surely golden.

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  151. Kim - our thoughts are with you too. You do a very special and wonderful thing by rescuing and giving your heart to these amazing kitties for whatever time they may be with you. Bless you.

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  152. I am so very very sorry to hear about this. Little Jerry Lee was a champion among cats, and I am in no doubt whatsoever that his few precious weeks on earth were filled with love, hugs and all things good.

    This must have been so hard on you. Big hug.

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  153. typing with tears streaming down my face.

    I am so sorry this is how it turned out. I'm sure you did what was best even though it must have been such a difficult decision. He had a wonderfully loving life, even if it was short.

    Thank you for all you do.

    Hugs

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  154. Oh my gosh..I am heartbroken. I can't imagine how you folks at the IBKC HQ must be feeling.

    Hugs and love to you all.

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  155. this is so sad. i'm sorry you had to loose such a sweetheart :(

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  156. I am so very sorry. I'm glad he was able to play outside and spend so much time in a loving environment!

    Hugs to you all.

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  157. Rest in peace, sweet little boy!

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  158. I think I have read about Jerry Lee now some five or six times. The first day I cried my heart out. Your pictures and text are so moving and beautiful.

    I am a foster mom, too. Two weeks ago I lost a little girl-kitten that I loved, her name was Jasper. I know how hard it is and also how rewarding it can be. That same day I went to the shelter and brought home five kittens and an adult cat.

    You've done justice to Jerry Lee's memory, and I'm so sorry that a different outcome wasn't possible.

    Rest in peace, Jerry Lee.

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  159. I haven't teared up like this in a while. Goodbye, Jerry Lee. Hugs and lots of love to you, IBKC.

    I volunteer for a no-kill cat shelter in Portland, Oregon called the Cat Adoption Team. Each month, I donate some of my starving liberal arts graduate income to the shelter in the name of somebody wonderful, and for many months, it will be you guys. What you do is incredibly hard.

    With love,
    fellow cat lover Tanya

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  160. Here it is 2011 and everytime I read this, it still makes me cry.

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