7/19 Simon crossed the Rainbow Bridge last night - We think we got a sign today!

After a week of taking Simon to the vet to see how we could help him, Simon helped make the decision for us. He was trying so hard to get better because he knew I would be very sad to lose him, but by Friday, he just couldn't hide his pain from us anymore. I think all of his many illnesses combined were too much for him. He couldn't stand for more than a minute because of the weakness in back legs and he lost the ability to urinate and poop on his own. We spent all yesterday together just hanging out. I took him outside in his cat bed to enjoy the front and back yard for a few minutes. He didn't want to stay long, but just long enough to feel the sun on his back and hear the birds. The rest of the day DH and I just sat next to him and told him how much we loved him and that it was ok for him to go. We will be ok. The mobile vet came last night to help him cross. She said he was ready and it was a very peaceful crossing. Missy was there on the couch in the beginning and when the vet injected the calming injection, Missy started looking all around the room, up and down and to the side. She wasn't looking at any of us. She did this until the final injection was given. The vet who brought it to my attention (who is intuitive) said that there must be multiple kitties in the room ready to help Simon cross. It was the most interesting thing to see. There was no movement in the room and the blinds were closed. Missy would move her head one way and then look up and then to the other side and behind her. I think all my GA kitties and Simon's FDMB friends must have been there. I don't doubt it -- Simon was quite the friendly boy. After the vet left, we spent time with Simon and even did a ritual bath, cleaning him and making him beautiful again. It was a very cathartic thing for me and DH. We then drove him to the pet funeral home and we will be able to pick his remains up in a few days. Thank you everyone for getting me through the crazy diabetes dance over the last 5 years. You have been there always. I could always count on you to help. I will never forget everyone here and will continue to check on all Simon's friends. My heart is breaking but I know Simon is so very happy right now playing with his friends.

I know this is probably way too long to post, but I want to include the note I wrote and read to Simon before he crossed:

Simon,
You are my Simon, my only Simon. You make me happy, when skies are grey. I have sung that song to you for 5 years as I tested your blood sugar every day. I will never be able to sing that song without putting your name in the title instead of “sunshine”.
When Mrs. Bradley called me to her house to come look at the kitten that was found by her contractor, I remember meeting you for the first time, prancing around in Mrs. Bradley’s bathroom. A little grey and white kitty. I knew from the first moment I saw you, that you would join our family of 3 – daddy, myself and Cokie. Although you liked to antagonize Cokie in the beginning, I caught the 2 of you sleeping next to each other on the bed. And when we had to saw part of the piano off because you had climbed into it and got stuck, we thought maybe we should have called you Elton John since you loved the piano. I loved it when I played the piano and you would jump up on the bench and try to play along with me. Very talented!

When we moved out of Carmain Dr. and lived in the apartments for a few months, we got Cleo as a kitten. It was love at first sight. You and Cleo were inseparable and loved sleeping together in the bed. And when we moved to Vicar Rd. and Boots adopted us, you and Boots got to be great friends. I loved when you would wrestle together. You were the friendliest boy ever and loved seeing the little calico, Rosie, when she would visit every day. She became your special girlfriend. And when your mini-me, Cami, appeared at our back door, even though he belonged to a neighbor and not part of our family, you treated him just like a brother. I know you really missed the 2 of them when they stopped coming by.

Almost 5 years ago, you were diagnosed with diabetes. Little did I know that life would change a lot. I think that even though it was bad that you had diabetes, I think we bonded so much more due to your “testing” time, insulin time and “waters” time. You were the best little boy, never minding all the needles, pokes, and lots of medication pilled or squirted into your mouth. And daddy was such an amazing help. He loves you so much and loved his time with you when I couldn’t get home in time from work. He is my rock and is helping me get through this hard day.

The best time was at night when we had our little ritual. Getting your blood sugar tested and then getting a few little treats of “chicky” on the bed. I loved when you would hop on the bed, get your treats and then cuddle next to me for your snuggle bug time. When I would read, I always laughed when you would touch my face or walk on me to get me to wake up when I nodded off to make sure I would give you your late night snack. I am going to miss that snuggle time the most.

I know how much you loved going outside for a little bit and trying to eat the weeds, even though they would make you throw up. I will always picture you laying on the front stoop, soaking in the sun.

When Cleo died, I know you were very sad to lose your sister. Even though you weren’t thrilled at first when Missy joined our home, you convinced her to like you except when you tried to wrestle with her and play bite her neck. No 20 pound cat wants to play, at least Missy did not want to!

I really wanted you to be around forever. We tried this week to find out why you didn’t want to eat and stopped peeing and pooping, but nothing helped. I know you are really tired and just don’t want to do much anymore except be in your bed. Not even temptations or real chicken will entice you to eat. I am sorry I had to give you so many pills and assist feed you, but I really thought this was just another pancreatitis episode and you would get better in a few days. You are a brave little boy and were willing to go to the vet every day for 4 days this week because I wanted to “save you”. In reality, saving you from pain and endless pills and treatments means letting you go. I can’t believe it is time, but when I look at you, I know it is. You have struggled so hard these last few days to give me hope that things would change, but you are too tired to go on. It is time, my little sweetness – time for you to be free of pain, free of legs that don’t work and free from being tired and sick.

You are getting ready to go on an amazing journey to the Rainbow Bridge. You will be free from all pain and will be like that little kitten I first met 18 years ago. And the best news is that you will be with Cleo, Boots, Cokie, Mariah, and Shalimar and all the other friends you have made these last 18 years, including all your friends on FDMB. Without them, you would not have lived these last 5 years. Remember to look for all the FDMB kitties that have gone away. Look for Rocket because he is expecting you and don’t be afraid of the dog he will be with. That is just Comet, who loves all kitties.

Last of all, you have taught me to love unconditionally and to be patient. You and I have such a strong bond – one that will never be broken. I will always keep you close to my heart and one day, we will all be together again. I know heaven will be full of all our family, including our fur family. Right now, enjoy hanging out with all your friends in your new home and do not worry about me. Even though losing you will be so hard, I know you have to go. I can’t keep you here because you are in too much pain and are so tired. I want you to run free and happy. I will be happy knowing that you are happy.

Thank you for being my snuggle bug and sweetness. You know “mama loves you” and I always will.
Love forever,
Mama

 

Georgia, I'm so sorry it was Simon's time. I'm glad you and your DH got to spend some time with him before you helped him cross. You did the most loving thing in letting him go so he can be free and feel good again. I know you will miss him terribly, but he knows how much you love him. Fly free Simon. Sending prayers.

 

I'm so very sorry. Simone was so loved.

 

I'm so sorry it was time for Simon to move on ((((Georgia)))) That was such a nice note you wrote for him.
He knows how much he is loved.

Fly Free Happy & Healthy, Simon.

 

Im so sorry for your loss. Im sure the GA kitties were there to show him the way to the bridge. he was so fortunate to have you for a momma and was truly a loved family member. Fly free and land softly little Simon. Hugs and prayers for your family

 

(((((Georgia)))))

Your tribute to your amazing kitty has me in tears. What a wonderful boy! From what it sounds like, Simon is joining Mannie and Stu in welcoming all of the kitties to the Bridge and making sure they have playmates. Simon was so clearly loved and returned that love by leaving his paw prints on your heart and on DH's heart, as well.

Fly free Simon and land softly. All of our guardian angels will be at the Bridge to greet you and keep you safe until you are reunited with the new you love best.

 

I am so very sorry for your loss. Your letter to Simon was beautiful and so touching. You obviously had a very strong bond. Cherish your memories. thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

 

Oh Georgia, your letter to Simon truly made me cry. I know your heart is broken. You gave Simon the best care and love in the 18 yrs he was alive. He knew he was loved. The two of you had a special bond, and though you will not see him in body Simon will be with you forever in your heart. Cherish the memories you two made together over the years. I know they will make you cry but I hope in time they make you smile....in time....

((((Georgia)))) be gentle with yourself in the coming days and weeks...I know we at FDMB truly understand what you are going thru.....

my deepest sympathies in the loss of your sweet gentle Simon

Fly Free Simon your friends gone before you have now greeted you at the bridge say hi to my boys and come visit your mom from time to time....

 

Requiem aeternum, Simon.
{{hugs}}

 

I am so very sorry, Georgia...what a beautiful tribute to your sweet boy. Our hearts are breaking with yours, but your love and dedication to Simon is something we will always carry with us. Many prayers, and our deepest sympathies to you...

 

(((((Georgia))))))
I cry with you. That was such a moving letter. What a gift Simon was in your life.
Prayers for your grieving hearts.
Fly Free Simon.

 

(((Georgia)))
I am so sorry that it was Simon's time to go. I wish they could all stay forever. I too am crying. That was such a beautiful and moving tribute. Simon, fly free, and send your mama a sign from the Bridge.

 

((((Georgia))))). That letter was beautiful. Fly free and land softly, Simon.

 

(((Georgia))) so sad to read of Simon's passing, your letter to him was truly heartfelt. Sending prayers to you for peace and comfort Fly free sweet Simon

 

Hi Georgia,

I too am so sorry that it was Simon's time. I don't think any of us, even when we know it is time, are truly prepared for it. It is hard, and so emotional. That bond we have with our sugar cats is incredible. Your post today is so beautiful, and touching. Simon's Crossing, and Missy's reaction to it is amazing, wonderfully amazing to know that all those kitties were there for Simon. That has warmed my heart so. I would like to think, as Sienne stated, that Mannie and Stu were there too to make sure his crossing was peaceful, and help him to the Bridge. I loved your letter to Simon. Wonderfully beautiful. Simon, remember to send your bean a sign that you made it. She and your papa and Missy miss you so. Fly free little one, land softly with your golden angel wings.

 

oh georgia . . . your tribute to Simon is so beautiful! It's the worst thing ever to lose our sugar kitties, but the gift of his life will stay forever with you. I'm sorry it was his time to leave - I can't believe it's been 5 years since he became diabetic. You and I were learning the sugar dance at the same time.

Big hugs to you and DH. Fly free little Simon - you're loved and cherished. Back when I was working in youth ministry, someone gave me the quote "we live in hope of becoming someone's memories." I know Simon will always be your very special, cherished memory.

 

(((Georgia, Johnny, and Missy)))) Simon has always been such a good, sweet, handsome boy and I remember well the beginning for all of us that came to FDMB at the same time....you/Simon, Melissa/Tarragon, Julie/Punkin, Karrie/Maverick, and us. Your sweet boy had the best love and care. I love how you found him and the beautiful letter you wrote him....it tore to my very heart and I know he will carry that with him until he sees you again. I know he is very grateful that you love him enough to know when it was time to help him transition. Even though losing our Gussie was such a very, very hard thing, we also had a peace we'd not had before when a kitty crossed because we knew he was ready and we had the time together before the transition as you and Johnny did with Simon. I'm so glad all his friends at the Bridge were there to guide him towards the light.

Many prayers and much love to you.

Fly free, Simon. Big, brave, beautiful boy. We weep at your crossing but our hearts are happy that you are that little gray and white kitten again.

The Ridge by Carol Notermann
It’s been such a lovely summer, I’ve been napping in the sun.
This morning, other cats and I enjoyed a long long run.
We chased butterflies together. I climbed high into a tree.
And now I think what woke me up was that small bumble bee.

I’ve yawned and stretched, and still I feel that something has begun.
He’s standing there in robes of white, and telling me to come.
I always run to Him you know, when He comes across the bridge
To see if we’re all having fun and if we’ve checked the ridge.

He gives tummy rubs to all of us and pets and cuddles too
I’m glad to see Him every day, when He comes into view.
Each day He takes a different cat, and chats with them a while
Then off that kitty starts to run. I swear they seem to smile.

But now He’s stopped in front of me. He’s said a name I know.
He said to look out towards the ridge. The sun is setting low.
I start to walk out toward the ridge, and then what’s that I see.
IT’S YOU! IT’S YOU! It’s really you. You’ve come to be with me!

My goodness you are running and I am running too!
You stop to bend, but I can jump and now I am with you.
I feel your kisses on my head, as I did in long off days
You’re holding me and hugging me, and into your eyes I gaze.

And now He’s walking with us, as you carry me once more
We’ve crossed Rainbow Bridge together. We’re here at Heaven’s door.
And He has held it open, and told us to walk through
That from now on and forever, I can always be with you.

 

So sorry that it was Simon's time to leave you

What a loving tribute to your dear Simon!! It's so clear that he was so very loved and the decision to let him go just proves it even more.

Fly free sweet Simon, and land softly. The other kitties at the Bridge will keep you company until the ones you loved most come to be with you forever.

 

What a sweet story. Simon was a lucky boy, to have such loving beans. Hugs to you and DH. Skritches to Missy.
Liz

 

What a beautiful tribute to Simon. It is so hard to know when our efforts to "save" our furbabies is not what they need. I hope I am as strong and wise as you when the time comes for us to say goodbye.

Fly Free, Sweet Simon. Guide another gentle soul in need of love to help to mend the hole in your beans heart.

 

You words have really touched me. It has been an incredibly hard day but I am comforted by your words. Marje, I love the poem and I hope things happen exactly like what is written. Julie, the quote is amazing about living to be someone else's memories. I feel very empty without my boy and it is strange not doing all the things I have done for him for so many years. I think Missy is depressed. She has been under the bed for most of the day and only comes out for food. I didn't think it would be too hard for her since I have only had her 2 years, but she lost her owner before us to death and then was sent to the cat shelter where I adopted her. I hope she isn't feeling like she will be going back there now. I will give her tons of extra love.

Here is the best part of my day: I am pretty sure my Cleo (GA) sent DH a sign that Simon is ok. I have to backtrack a little. Before we made the decision to have Cleo cross the bridge (2 years ago), I was just finishing my yoga practice and was lying on my back listening to the song, Worn, by Tenth Avenue North. It talks about being tired and worn even before the day begins. Cleo never came into that room and when the song started playing, she came in and curled up next to me and then left as soon as the song finished. I knew that it was a sign that she was saying she was tired and worn and ready to cross. We always refer to that song now as "Cleo's song". This morning, DH went out to get coffee and turned on the radio. He turned it on just as the song, Worn, started playing! It is a song that I don't hear much anymore since it is 2 years old. I don't think it was a coincidence. Cleo knew that DH and I would take it as a sign that Simon is there. DH was kind of shaking when he came home because it was such a wonderful thing that happened.

Thank you again for all your loving words of support.

 

Georgia,
I am so sorry to read that it was Simon's time to leave you. He was obviously very much loved.
Sending hugs and love
Rest easy Simon with your many friends at the Rainbow Bridge

 

Hi Georgia

How wonderful on the song. I am with you. it is a sign for sure, Simon made it, he is happy, and more than likely found Cleo and all his buddies. This has just made my day. Thank you Simon for letting your mama and papa, and all of us know that you made it. I really enjoyed hearing a part of Cleo's passing story. They always find way to let us know. Well done Cleo.

Hugs to Missy. it was that way too with Elsa when Mannie crossed. She wouldn't leave me alone, needed reassurance, comfort. I too gave her as much as she needed and more and talked with her alot. She was down for a few days, normal I think. Hugs and scritches to you Missy. In time it will be better.

 

{{{Georgia}}}

My heart is breaking for you, your DH and sweet little Missy. I am so very sorry that it was Simon's time to cross. Your tribute was beautiful and I am sobbing as I type this. You were a wonderful, loving bean and you have given Simon the ultimate gift - freedom from suffering. It's so hard to know when it's time to let them go, because all you want is for them to stay. I haven't been able to see that clearly with my kitties in the past, but I hope that I will be more like you when that time comes for my babies.

I agree that Simon and Cleo sent you that sign, and I'm glad it brings you and your DH some peace. I hope that Missy will take comfort from you and perhaps Simon will send her a sign that she will understand, too.

Fly free, sweet Simon, and land softly.

 

(((Georgia))) What a beautiful tribute - I had chills with my tears reading about his crossing. You were a great mommy~

 

That does sound like a beautiful sign sent from both of your amazing little angels in heaven...

Adding some prayers that Missy feels safe and comfortable, too....

 

Georgia, I'm so sorry for the loss of your Simon. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tribute. "You are my Simon, my only Simon...", such a well-loved little guy. I picture him now, frolicking in a fragrant meadow, chasing butterflies and having so much fun with all his new friends. "You made your Mama happy when skies were grey...." Fly free and land softly.

 

Georgia, I'm so sorry it was Simon's time to cross. Your tribute to him is beautiful. It brought smiles and tears both. BIG HUGE LOONG HUG. Oh what a wonderful sign you received from them.

Soar high on your new angel wings sweet Simon....

 

Dear ((((Georgia, Johnny, and Missy)))),
Georgia, I read your beautiful tribute to your fine, brave boy late last night, but couldn't write coherently then through my tears. What a wonderful life Simon had with you, Johnny and your fur family! How comforting it is to know that all of Simon's kitty brothers and sisters and all of his FDMB pals were with him to guide his passage as he began his new adventure. Edward and I have often thought that the souls of our kitties at the Bridge communicate with our living kitties. We have seen this in Rusty's behavior. Now Missy has opened a window on that other world for all of us to marvel at.

Fly free, dear Simon, on your beautiful golden wings.. You are much loved. You will always dwell in that special spot in your mamabean's and papabean's hearts.

In deepest sympathy,
Ella & Edward, Rusty, and Stu (GA)

 

(((Georgia)))
I'm so sorry. You gave Simon so much love. What an amazing tribute to your sweet boy. Sending many hugs to you, DH, and Missy.


Fly free, Sweet Simon.

 

My deepest condolences to you Georgia and to your DH and your Missy on the loss of your beloved Simon.

 

Oh Georgia. I am so very sorry. Simon was loved by all and always will be. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers to help you get through this time. ((((HUGS))))

 

What a beautiful tribute to your sweet Simon. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Bless little Cleo for sending you a sign that Simon is ok.

 

(((Georgia))) I am so sorry it was Simon's time. You wrote a beautiful story to him.

I hope he continues to send you signs from the Bridge.

 

Sweet, sweet Simon has arrived and all is good at the Bridge.