Marmalade; my life saver
- Mike Douglas
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
I love you and I miss you Marmalade. You saved my life. And I’m so sorry I couldn’t do more to save yours. You will always be in my heart, and by my feet.
When I was in the darkest place and struggling with my depression, thoughts of self harm and leaving here, you walked through my legs. You rubbed against my leg, you showed me love, affection and, in your own way, compassion. In that moment you broke my cycle of depressive thinking. You saved my life.
Saying goodbye was sudden, I only hope that means you didn’t feel any pain. I hope you knew we loved you, and you could feel the love from our final strokes and tears.
Marmalade you are always our special little buddy.
Your life started hard; being left abandoned and eventually rescued and sheltered by a pet charity. Sometime later your affection and beautiful personality was noticed and you found yourself at our home. Tom, Millie and I took a little time to get to know you, as you integrated into our home. Tom and I grew to love you; Millie I’m less sure about (if I’m being honest). Later Laura and Henry very quickly connected with your cute face and attention seeking purrs. Fast forward to now and I'm pretty sure you’re Henry’s favourite.
We have been so lucky to be your human companions, to have you flashing your ruffles, nipping at our toes and rubbing your head against our legs. While you may have nearly tripped us all over many times, I was never annoyed or frustrated by your weaving, because it’s just that closeness that saved me. I will always miss you nearly tripping us up.
I don't think I truly realised until your passing quite how connected I, and specifically my recovery journey, was to you. I owe you so much my beautiful, playful, loveable friend.
I echo my last words to you, I love you and thank you for saving my life.
Blogger's note: This post does not include sponsored content. None of the services, projects, campaigns or charities mentioned have seen this post before it is published, nor have they instructed me on what to say. The views, experiences, thoughts and insights expressed in this post are my own. The links included are direct web links and are not affiliate links.
Additional links and signposting:
Samaritans - Listening service
Blue Cross - Pet Loss
Local Minds - Find your local Mind (mental health service)
Mind - Self Care for depression
RSPCA - Pet Bereavement
