Mitcho, Gerard Keane’s adorable cat, and he have always been best friends.
The two longtime friends have done almost everything together for the past 16 years.
But a few weeks ago, a misfortune event halted the positive development Keane and Mitcho were experiencing.
Keane lost his balance and broke his hip as a result. He ultimately required a lengthy hospital stay in order to have his hip replaced. At home, Mitcho was pining away since he missed his closest pal so much.
According to Keane’s daughter Aoife, they were apart for four weeks. He must have been sad since Mitcho normally follows him about the house and sits beside him in the garden.
The cat’s affection for Keane only appeared to grow throughout his absence. Mitcho has insisted on being around ever since he was allowed to heal at home following his hospital discharge.
Keane is still recovering from the hip replacement and needs to use crutches. To help regain his strength, he’s been taking daily walks around the neighborhood for exercise, slowly but steadily.
And, thanks to Mitcho, never alone.
Though for his whole life, the cat never once chose to step beyond the family’s driveway, the thought of Keane lumbering down the street all by himself inspired a change in Mitcho. Now, when Keane steps out for a walk, Mitcho always joins him — moving extra slow, so his best friend has no trouble keeping pace.
Seeing that pure expression of friendship moved Keane’s daughter to tears.
“It made me quite emotional!” she said. “It’s really lovely.”
Mitcho’s love for Keane is also making a difference.
Keane is steadily recovering thanks to the support of his cat on their daily walks and the warmth of his love in all other circumstances.
He is doing incredibly well, according to Aoife. “My dad has had a lot of fun and comfort with Mitcho. He is by his side constantly and is more loving than ever.”
