Yesterday, Alley Cat Allies said goodbye to our office cuddle bug, Jazzy. The fluffy, talkative torty had a demanding voice but the cuddliest personality and was the true heart of Alley Cat Allies: always available for a hug, happy to be held, in the middle of all our meetings, and the cat who welcomed all newcomers with open paws, including kids. She wandered the hallways calling for attention, and we were all happy to oblige for the chance to get a feline pick-me-up. She always seemed to know who needed it most.
Possibly our most famous cat, Jazzy appeared in major newspapers from the Wall Street Journal to The New York Times, and even made an appearance on our Daily Show segment. It didn’t go to her head. She never forgot her humble beginnings as an eartipped feral cat who was being cared for in a Maryland colony before Alley Cat Allies came to her aid when her life was threatened outdoors.
Jazzy was recently diagnosed with encephalitis: a life threatening inflammation of the brain. The cause is unknown, and although we took every step possible to treat her and identify the cause, Jazzy suffered a seizure over the weekend that severely debilitated her. She was rushed to the hospital and by Monday morning she was gone. We are heartbroken and devastated at her loss. We are warmed by the memory of her amazing heart.
Jazzy, you were one in a million. You will be so missed by us all, and the office will never be the same.