This morning, Tuffy is in a coma. She is basically gone; only her body reflexes are left. Since she is not in actual pain, I don't think hubby is going to be convinced to let a vet end her life. But it's hard to watch her labored breathing. As a nursing assistant I've been through this with elderly residents, so I know what's happening.

I have been in hubby's life for only the past two and a half years. Tuffy, who was a grown cat already when she came to live with him, has been here for almost seven. I am concentrating mostly on being there for hubby. He's losing a dear friend. You should see how lovingly he holds her in his arms.

We've asked her please, when she gets to Heaven, to tell her first owner that we loved her very much.