Rusty and Marilyn were always meant to be. The two came into each other’s lives in February 2019, when 84-year-old Marilyn became a foster mom to Rusty, a beautiful but timid rust-colored kitty.
A year later, the two were still together. By that time, Marilyn had fallen in love with Rusty. And Rusty, who came to us at 12 years old when her guardian could no longer care for her, was feeling secure and loved in return.
But because Marilyn lives on a limited income, she could not afford to adopt Rusty. So Golden Oldies created a Matchmaker Fund to provide food, litter and medical care for Rusty for life. We put out a plea for donations and you answered the call. We raised more than $9,000 (we estimate it costs about $1,200 a year for food, litter and routine medical care for a cat).
We had an adoption party planned so that the two could officially tie the knot. The adoption papers were ready and just needed to be signed. We had plans to order a cake, brew some tea and bring in a photographer for pictures of the Big Day.
Then COVID-19 came along.
We have patiently waited but now, six months later, we finally decided we could wait no longer. We wanted to make this official! So on August 18, one of our long-time volunteers brought the adoption papers to Marilyn. She signed them and now Rusty is officially hers. Not that it ever was in question…
We will party later when the world is safe again.
Meanwhile, Marilyn and the now 13-year-old Rusty are living the dream … doing word searches on Marilyn’s patio, taking naps together and even exercising! Marilyn admits Rusty may be a bit spoiled: she gets a treat of deli turkey once in a while — warmed up, of course!
A big thank you to our donors. Because of your generosity, this love story is now complete.
