HOME AND HEARTSICK

Hello friends - Jim and I had a really wonderful time in Jamaica; we have rediscovered each other in so many wonderful ways. The day we returned home, just hours before our plane was to land at JFK, my beloved Sophie, our beautiful blue merle collie, was struck by a car. The driver did not even stop. We don't know how long she stayed like that, on the side of the road, fully conscious but unable to move, unable to even thunk her tail when help arrived because her spine had snapped like a pretzel rod. Just hours before we were due home, the neighbor that was taking care of her for us sped her to an emergency animal clinic where the vet said she had to be euthanized; he said he could not believe she was still alive and conscious with her injuries. I believe she was waiting for me. I have not been able to stop crying, the hole in my soul is so huge. Sophie died on Jillian's 19th birthday - we are traveling to New Haven this morning to tell Jillian in person, she will be inconsolable. The day Sophie died, my copy of WLSLifestyles Magazine arrived in the mail with my article about Sophie and our walks together in print. Alongside the article is a picture of my Sophie, looking into the camera as if to say, "Forget about this stuff, let's go for a walk!" I walked last night, our usual trek, without her. I sobbed and sobbed, and called out to her and asked her if she knew what she meant to me. How do I move on from this place of utter total loss? Thanks for listening and for being there. By the way, there are some new photos of our trip on my profile page. I hope all is well, Maureen

I am so sorry........... Reading your post brought tears to my eyes. I wish I had more comforting words to offer... Dorota

Oh, Maureen. I'm SO very sorry. Our pets are our family and it's tragic how someone hit her and didn't even have it in them to stop. (Unless they were going to fast that they didn't even know they did it) How did she get out? How ironic that your issue w/ your article would come the same day. At least she's in print for you to show everyone how much she meant to you! Have it framed and hang it on the wall for all to see! Grieve...just as you would for a human loved one. Allow yourself to feel every single emotion that comes up. That's the only way you'll get to a place of acceptance and feel better. You'll never forget her, the pain will eventually get better, but will never go away. I too believe she was holding on waiting for you...She needed you to be there with her. Remember how much she loved you and how much you all loved her... I'm so sorry that you had to come home to this, on the tails of a great trip... Paula

Dear Reenie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I totally understand. Thursday we had to put down our beloved kitty kat of 18 years. She was a house cat and one of the family. She grew up with our kids. It was the hardest thing we had to do. We all feel it's not fair. So I do totally understand. Sincerely sorry, Koukla

Maureen, My hearts goes out to you and your daughter. I know how rough losing a pet can be. They are an important part of the family and so very loved. I am so very sorry for your loss and I hope and pray you all get through this. So sorry you had to come home from your wonderful vacation to such tragedy. God Bless Hugs Kim

Just wanted to let you know how sorry I am for your loss. Remember all the good times you had with Sophie, and you now have your own special Angel watching over your family. My thoughts & prayers are with you. KathiM.

My deepest heartfelt sympathy is with you. Grieving is a process that is difficult to get through and there is really nothing that one can say to make you feel better, just know that you are not alone and others have felt the depth of your pain. It does get easier as time goes on, it will always tug at your heart but it gets more tolerable. There is a nice website for grieving pet owners called rainbow bridge, perhaps you can go there and make a memorial for your Sohpie........ Hang in there Maureen, my heart goes out to you. Tammy

Oh Maureen, I'm so sorry for your loss. Our pets are our family and it is so hard to lose one of them - especially tragically. I'm sure little Sophie was waiting for you, but she is out of pain and happy now getting all the food and belly rubs she wants! I'm sure that doesn't really help right now...nothing will. You need to cry, so keep doing it. Don't hold anything in. My heart goes out to you & your family. I am so sad for your loss. You're in my thoughts. Michelle

I am so very sorry that this has happened. Your post brought tears to my eyes. I know what it is like to lose a beloved pet. My heart breaks for you. I am sorry.

Maureen, My sincerest condolences over the loss of your beloved pet. It's hard to find words at a time like this. Our pets are part of our lives and family and when they leave us under any cir****tance there is such a void in the home & in our hearts. Time will heal & fill that void but you never forget their unconditional love and devotion. You will always have treasured memories of your walks with Sophie and how much joy she brought you. You & your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time, Mickey