Often, stories of paralysis end in a state of permanent immobility, both for animals and people. However, for a brave kitty named Faith, paralysis was just a chapter in her incredible journey towards walking again.
Faith Calls
In early September, Alex and Ember, the dedicated founders of Saaving Lives Cat Rescue, received an urgent call from a concerned individual. The caller told them about a potentially injured cat who had been crying for help in their cries from a cat in their garden, signaling that the cat was in significant distress. The kitty, later named Faith, was in visible pain and unable to move her legs. Alex rushed to the scene and found Faith distressed and completely paralyzed.
Against All Odds
Rushing Faith to the nearest vet for further assistance, Alex was faced with a challenging and heartbreaking decision. The vet suggested nothing could be done and to put Faith down to end her suffering. Despite the severity of her condition, Alex believed she saw a spark of determination in Faith’s eyes, a will to live that couldn’t be ignored.
“I feel like when you have been working with animals especially cats for so long, you can definitely see it in their eyes when they want to actually be put to sleep or fight. With Faith, I could see it in her eyes.” Alex, Co-Owner of Saaving Lives.
Unconvinced, she sought a second opinion. Another veterinarian conducted various tests and found that, aside from her paralysis, Faith was in good health. This revelation fueled Alex’s determination to give Faith a fighting chance. A decision that would later change Faith’s life forever.
Let’s Have Some Faith
Initially, Alex was overwhelmed with doubts about Faith’s future and whether she would be able to find her a forever home as a paralyzed cat. However, Faith’s spirit prevailed. Just a couple days into her care, Faith started “making biscuits” – a promising sign of her regaining strength. One memorable morning, Alex was astonished to see Faith standing on her own. This was a moment that brought tears and joy signaling the turning point in Faith’s recovery and journey.
“We have no idea what happened. Some vets said she might have had an autoimmune disease. The only thing we know is we did everything we could. We gave her so much love and attention. We saw a miracle happen.” Alex, Co-Owner of Saaving Lives.
Through a regimen of endless love, good food, supplements, and constant attention, Faith’s condition improved dramatically. She first regained strength in her front legs, followed by her hind legs. Eventually, Faith could walk, jump, and move without any constraints, shocking everyone who had witnessed her journey.
Finding a Forever Home
Faith’s miraculous recovery and heartwarming story resonated with many. When a video of her journey was posted online, it garnered 500 adoption inquiries. Among these, a couple in their 30s stood out, instantly falling in love with Faith. Arrangements were made to fly Faith to Brussels to meet her new owners. Alex and Ember accompanied her, spending three days with the couple to ensure Faith settled comfortably into her new home.
Behind Saaving Lives
Alex and Ember’s passion for rescuing cats stems from their deep love for animals. Alex’s journey began during her university years when she chose to dedicate her life to helping animals. Her studies took her to Bali, where she honed her skills and gained experience working in animal shelters. It was in Greece, at a cat shelter, that she met Ember. Their shared dream of starting their own rescue organization became a reality with the founding of Saaving Lives.
The Impact
Over the past two years, Saaving Lives has made a significant impact, rescuing numerous cats and facilitating their recovery and adoption into loving homes. Alex and Ember find immense reward in witnessing the incredible recoveries of the cats they rescue. Although saying goodbye to these feline friends is often bittersweet, knowing they are going to loving homes brings them joy and fulfillment.
Faith’s story is a testament to the power of love, determination, and second chances. Alex and Ember’s dedication through Saaving Lives continues to change the lives of countless cats, providing them with the care and compassion they need to thrive. Their journey is an inspiring reminder of the difference one can make in the lives of those who cannot speak for themselves and need honorable people to stand up for them.