After 10 years in Vancouver’s DTES and losing her first human, Boswell bounded into my world in Nov 2018. Our lives would intertwine for the next 2242 days — not enough.

We spent most of that time together, as I work from home. Her companionship was constant and wise, with daily reminders that deadlines and late nights should never have priority over precious, fleeting moments (or a cosy cuddle) with the one you love.

Bos would parade the length of my desk, loaf in front of my keyboard, nudge me, meow repeatedly then stare, as if to say: “Here, Now. You, Me. This is What Matters.” She was right.

A week before she passed, I broke down. Boswell trotted over and sat with me; she had never seen me cry. I knew then, that when the end came, I didn’t want her to feel my sadness — I wanted her to know that she was deeply loved. Dr. Jeff’s empathy, grace and kindness helped me keep it together, to be fully present in her final moments. I will always be grateful.

This shattering grief might never be transformed. But the marks that Bos left on the floor, furniture and walls are comforting reminders of how she filled our home and my life, with love.

-Steve C, January 2025