Senior Cat Murray Helps Amy Find Purpose In Life
After Amy adopted Murray, a senior cat, his loving nature transformed her life and became a healing force for the community.
“Murray makes me feel special every time we go somewhere. He lets people love him, and just by association I, too, feel accepted and befriended. He opens doors for me and helps me create relationships with people, thus making me feel like I'm not alone and that I'm needed. Working with Murray gives my life purpose and meaning and you can't ask for more than that.” ~ Amy
Amy + Murray’s Love Story
After losing the two best cats in the world, I went to the shelter hoping to find a new friend. I needed a loving companion to help me navigate the trauma of divorce and, unknowingly at the time, the challenge of being single during the COVID pandemic.
Initially, I planned to adopt two kittens for a fresh start. However, it was December —not kitten season, so I decided to keep an open mind. That’s when I met Murray. Murray was a large, mellow, eight-year-old orange cat with FIV. Given my love for orange cats, I took Murray home and hoped for the best.
Murray quickly proved to be a loving and friendly cat. He greeted my friends with a calm demeanor and silky soft fur, slept under the covers beside me, and gave plenty of affectionate head butts. He sat on my lap (or my keyboard!) while I worked from home and became the warm cuddly loving companion I needed as I struggled with the loneliness of divorce and COVID.
When I took Murray to the veterinarian, not only did he rub against the vet tech, he purred through his exam and stayed calm even when receiving a shot! I knew in that moment that Murray was a special cat. So, I reached out to the shelter to explore therapy work. After passing the test, Murray and I became a Therapet team.
For the past year and a half Murray and I have been visiting senior centers, the local VA behavioral health facility, libraries, and a residential treatment home for kids and teens. These visits are the best part of my week. I think the kids and seniors would say the same thing, as would Murray!
For a few brief moments the people we visit feel Murray’s unconditional love. Petting this big soft purring cat is so healing. The seniors in the memory care unit are often lonely and missing their loved ones, and Murray reminds them they are not alone. Even the staff finds relief in Murray’s calm demeanor and soft purrs.
Watching the kids pick Murray up and hold him tight…you can see and feel just how much they need unconditional love in that moment. It is heartwarming to see a child in need of love, attention, or possibly a hug, receive that gift from Murray. So many humans have let them down, but Murray never does.
I have also found that visiting with residents, families, and staff helps me feel less lonely. I am so grateful for the many blessings in my life.
Murray, the senior kitty no one wanted, is now one of just five cat Therapet teams (out of 60+), bringing joy to so many people every week.
