It is said that “love conquers all.”

This is so true and in my recent experience, I have discovered that love can not only come from a furry companion but be equally fulfilling as that of another human being.

Nothing is more important when feeling ill and isolated to look up and know that someone is there watching over you. I never knew I could love a four -legged creature as much as I love my cat – my ‘little baby ma -mau‘ as I like to call him.

Despite my initial trepidation in bringing him home due to my life long allergies to cats- he not only managed to take over the house but find his way deep into my heart and that of every member of the family. I can’t imagine life without him now. He has become a constant companion when I am well but more importantly when I am not so well. It is this persistence to watch over me which has won my heart. People always say that dogs are smart and that they are man’s best friend but being a descendant of the feline family myself (De Leon – i.e. the lioness) I can attest to the cleverness and astuteness of this species.

Time and time again, I have been at awe not only in his ability to detect when something is amiss in my life (i.e. health) but his determination to not leave my side even when it caused him pain.

Not long ago, I was suffering from a lupus flare-up and he had contracted a severe infection in his paw (pododermatitis). The infection was causing him so much pain he was unable to bear weight in his hind legs. So there we were a quite the pair – me moaning and groaning with every step I took especially when I tried to bend to down to give him his medicines. and he dragging his hind legs behind pulling himself with his upper paws just to be near me. I hated moving to go to the kitchen or bathroom because he would invariably drag himself behind me yet; I was too weak to pick him up to carry with me. I let him sleep with me during those days. As we both recovered we spent many days in bed. Often times, I would go in and out of conscious state but even in my stupor state, my heart filled with joy knowing that each time I glanced over he was right there keeping a watchful eye on me. during my feverish delirium he would scoot himself ever so gently close to my face and would not retrieve until I said I am okay.

I have rediscovered that true love is not only unconditional no matter who it comes from but it also has a tremendous healing and staying power for those on the receiving end. Although, I am extremely lucky to have many people who love me including my daughter and husband- only this precious little creature can stay with me 24 hours a day being my guardian angel of sorts.

As you go through your journey with Parkinson’s or any other chronic illness, there may be times when you feel lonely or alone or even a bit unloved. Perhaps, if you find yourself in this situation the solution is visiting a pet store or an animal shelter to find your best four legged mate and discover the power of loving one of God’s furry creatures while receiving unconditional love in return.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all and if you are lucky to have a furry companion keep loving them.

I would love to see pics or comments about your special furry friend and how it has helped you live with PD or any other chronic disease.

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All Rights reserved by Maria De Leon MD