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This is the post I never wanted to write. I’m sad beyond words to tell you that Zelda has passed away. Her health took a downward turn earlier this year, and we made the hardest, kindest decision. In our final moments together, I held Zelda in my arms at home, and she drifted away peacefully into her deepest nap. I’ve been quiet, and I’m so sorry. Zelda’s passing hit me immeasurably hard - she meant the world to me. Our paths crossed in 2014 when I adopted her from the Mayhew rescue shelter. I had recently moved to my first place, distant from family and friends. I felt lonely, and I guess Zelda was too. She spent most of her time hiding under the sofa, observing me with her unblinking stare, spooking at the slightest noise or movement. At times I found it hard to imagine a happy future together, but she didn’t give up on me. She was coaching me to become the patient, gentle and kind person I strive to be today. One day, weeks later, she took the bravest leap and tentatively climbed onto my lap. Earning her trust felt magical. Being her roommate made my flat feel like a home, and we became inseparable. Zelda was with me through so much, from moving in with my partner to getting married, moving home three times more, and twice becoming a father. She was a constant source of joy, laughter, and love for our family - and I feel so privileged to have been able to share some of her antics with you. Grief affects us all in different ways, but it has been a huge comfort to me knowing how much you care. I feel I owe so much to you all for supporting me over the years with all your kind comments, poems, buying the book, making memes, fan art, and more. Thank you, from the bottom of my broken heart. Part of the healing process has taken me through a mountain of old photos and videos of Zelda, and there’s so much that I didn’t get to share. I didn’t get to tell you just how much we adored her, nor how happy a life she had with us. Beneath her online persona, I’m so proud that she evolved from that perpetually startled homebody to the most affectionate, trusting and curious adventurer. Included in this post is a small snapshot of some everyday moments I spent with Zelda. In the coming weeks, I’ll share more. After all, I’ve missed you so much. Zelda, thank you for choosing me that day in the shelter. Thank you for trusting me. Sorry for constantly waving a camera in your face. You’re beautiful inside and out, and I’ll love you forever. - Matt