URGENT Medical Funding for Annie Marie Honoring Jon's Legacy

Cat Rescue...

Often, the narrative isn't solely about rescuing a cat; it also revolves around the relationships we form with both the cat and the people involved.

Last year, when we sought assistance from the Riverdale Community for our cat rescue initiative, Jon was among the few who responded with unwavering support, guidance, and mentorship. As a retired cat colony feeder and rescuer, Jon generously donated his trap, cat carriers, food, and litter to help Riverdale Cats in their mission. He was always there to offer advice on cat rescue and medical care.

After living in his home for over 30 years in Netherland Gardens with his beloved cat Annie Marie, Jon faced housing insecurity when his landlord decided to sell the apartment, requiring him to vacate by November 30. The uncertainty of his future housing weighed heavily on him, impacting his emotional and physical well-being. With no family support in the U.S., friends and neighbors stepped in to assist.

Unfortunately, the immense stress culminated in the heartbreaking news that our mentor and friend, Jon, had passed away. His cherished cat, Annie Marie, was found alive by the police and was estimated to have been alone with her angel Dad for at least five days without food or water in the apartment.

We got the tragic news on November 11th, and were able to seamlessly retrieve Annie Marie from the 50th that night. We feel honored and a huge sense of responsibility as we were told that Riverdale Cats was listed as Annie Marie's emergency contact in Jon's wallet.

When we got Annie Marie back home, she appeared traumatized and evidently had been crying. Our first night with her in our care, she was so sad and cried into the night. Words cannot describe the feeling of a shared togetherness with experiencing a traumatic situation between a rescued cat and her rescuer.

The following day, we took Annie Marie to her veterinarian, Dr. Fried at Riverdale Veterinary Group, where she received intravenous fluids for dehydration and treatment for her goopy eyes. She may need some dental work done soon as recommended by Dr. Fried.

The photo was taken the night we recovered Annie Marie and you can she is visibly heartbroken and confused, mourning the loss of her devoted caretaker. We talk to her daily about Jon and how much he loved and cared for her.Annie has been through a lot of loss with both of her two siblings she was bonded with in the last couple of years.

Annie Marie is a 15-year-old black/white smooshy mushy kitty who overall is in good health! Although she isn't particularly food motivated, she enjoys churu treats and loves being brushed and purrs with joy when being pet! Our hope is to find her a loving home that can continue the affection she received throughout her life. She loves to be held and needs a caretaker who can dote over her!

In honoring Jon's legacy as a cat caretaker/rescuer, we Riverdale Cats know Jon would have insisted on creating a GoFundMe to ensure Annie Marie receives the best ongoing care and anticipated veterinary care in the future like he had advised us to do in the past with our rescues. So, we are finally following suit.

We have set up a campaign in Jon's memory, not only to support Annie Marie's ongoing needs but also to help other cats in similar situations. Jon's passion for cats and his selflessness in aiding their rescue has left a lasting impact on our community, and we believe this is a fitting tribute to his legacy.

As we work to find Annie Marie her new forever home, we are reminded of the profound connections that form between humans and animals. These bonds transcend the challenges and heartaches, providing comfort and companionship in times of need. Jon's story, and Annie Marie's journey, remind us all of the importance of compassion and community.

If you would like to contribute to Annie Marie's care or are interested in giving her a loving home, please reach out to us. Together, we can ensure that Jon's spirit of kindness continues to make a difference in the lives of cats and the people who love them.

Ways to help!

~Share Annie Marie's story w/ friends & family to find her forever home!

~Donate cat food for Annie Marie via our Amazon wishlist!

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~RC