In memory of Jasper

Jasper came to us at 6 months of age from Cats protection - he was a beautiful, long haired , black and white cat . He quickly became my soulmate and emotional support. Handsome, gentle ( except with birds and mice), he spent a lot of time cuddled up next to me , purring fiercely, and looking at me with those big green eyes. He was my companion for 17 years . He calmed me down and gave me unconditional love when my mum and sister passed away , he helped me stay calm through the perimenopause! - I loved coming home from a hard day at work ( teaching) , and having him snuggle up to me , purring and connecting with my heart . Over the past few years he developed thyroid problems and had a complicated eye operation . His arthritis became severe and he lost a lot of weight. Throughout all of that he continued to show me unconditional love . Last week he caught an infection which he managed to hide from us - he was sleeping outdoors during the heatwave,and then he finally and very quickly succumbed to his wound. Maybe he had jumped over next doors fence ? We got him to the vets and made the swift decision to put him out of his pain . My heart feels empty and numb . I never thought I could experience so much love from a cat - my soulmate on this earth. Sleep well my beautiful, gentle boy. We will meet again if there is a heaven .

by Angela Mason