My heart goes out to both of you for your recent losses. I also lost a faithful companion this week, my six year old bullseye tabby, Sammy. He was diagnosed with chronic kidney failure back in September and I am so thankful for his vet who helped me to provide supportive care that gave us another 3 months to say goodbye. Sadly - kidney failure is not cureable and not reversable.
It's believed Sammy was born with this condition.
Even today I question if I did enough or made too hasty a decision to have him put to sleep Thursday. This poem has helped me over the past few days. I hope it can bring you some comfort too.
THE LAST BATTLE
If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done?
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hands,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so,
When the time comes, please let me go.
Take me to where my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me until the end
And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree,
It is a kindness you do for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you,
Who has to decide this thing you do.
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.
~Author Unknown~
