I never imagined that the person who had never owned a pet, never held a cat, and never even thought about caring for one would be the person who showed up for Hazel when I couldn’t. My mom wasn’t feeling good, and her health was deteriorating faster than I could understand, something I only realized fully after reaching India. She was missing me, and even in her weakness she did what she always does. She asked about my children, shared her usual life advice, and for the first time her words felt different, as if she knew she was giving me her last guidance. She reminded me that no matter what happens, I must stay strong and take care of myself and my kids.

I told my friend that I wanted to go see my mother, but my daughter had school, and if I left, she would want to come with me. If both of us went, I had no idea how Hazel would be taken care of. Before I could finish explaining, my friend said she would look after Hazel. She lives twenty minutes away, has never had a pet, and doesn’t know how to care for one, yet she was willing to step in so I could be with my mother.

Some people talk about being there for you, and then there are people who simply show up. She didn’t hesitate. She sent updates, checked Hazel’s food and water, and made sure she wasn’t lonely.

Her kindness gave me the space to be a daughter and allowed me to see my mother for the last time. She may not have known how to care for a pet, but she knew how to care for me, and that is something I will always remember.