Homer, the inspiration behind Gwen Cooper's New York Times best selling memoir, Homer's Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, or How I Learned about Love and Life with a Blind Wonder Cat has passed away, the author announced yesterday on her Facebook page. He was 16 years old.
The black feline had been battling health issues since late last year, and his condition had deteriorated in recent weeks.
Gwen Cooper - Blind Cat's Tale (Homer's Odyssey)
Cooper captured the hearts of cat lovers around the world in 2009, with the release of her book about the feisty blind feline who beat the odds and made an indelible impression on her life. From career changes, through experiencing 9/11 in New York City, to falling in love and finding the man of her dreams, Homer was always by Gwen's side to provide loving encouragement.
(Facebook)
Cooper wrote in an emotional blog post yesterday that Homer was "the world’s cat," and that she takes comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the memories of so many.
"I celebrate Homer and the life that he lived, the love that he gave, the odds he overcame to grow into a housecat with a lion’s heart who touched so many people and saved the lives of so many other cats like him," she said.
"And I grieve for the loss of my boy, my little, little boy, the heart of my heart and the very best part of the person I always wanted to be. I do try to take comfort in the knowledge that Homer is whole now, and at peace—and that he will always, always be loved.
Vaya con dios, my love. My great love, You were the one who taught me that love truly isn’t something you see with your eyes. Eras much gato."
(Facebook)
In lieu of cards and flowers, Cooper is asking that fans make a donation to their favorite local animal charity in Homer's honor. She is also setting up a Homer’s Heroes Fund, through which every year she will make a donation in his name to a shelter or rescue group that does outstanding work with “special needs” animals.
Additionally, for every paperback copy of her latest book, Loves Saves The Day, pre-ordered now or bought online or in-store until October 27th, she will donate 100% of her royalties to a shelter/rescue group through the fund.
On a personal note, I was very sad to hear this news, and send my deepest condolences to Gwen and her husband Laurence. I was a big fan of Homer's Odyssey, and highly encourage you to add it to your feline reading list.
Rest in peace, Homer. Your legacy lives on, and you will always be remembered in the hearts of all who loved you.
Via gwencooper.com / Facebook (Homer Blind WonderCat)
10 comments:
I love that book and I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. Why can't they all live as long as us?
i am so sorry. :(
My boss gave me Homer's Odyssey as a gift a few years ago. What a strong little man he was. :(
Even thought I already a cat with one eye, after reading Homers Odyssey I wanted a blind cat. A few years later I adopted Oliver who is blind. He is one of the best things since sliced bread. Homer you changed the world for so many cats with disabilities. You will forever be missed.
RIP little Homer - you touched all our hearts and will be missed by us all - now you are running around at the rainbow bridge with my brother Felix and Tommy and Marmi (Mummy's other cats) - have fun with them! x
I am sorry for the loss of Homer.
Sue B
REST IN PEACE. YOU WILL BE PLAYING WITH ALL THE CATS THAT YOU HAVE JOINED. LOVER OF CATS. PAT
So long, extraordinary Homer. Your heartwarming story of courage and determination will continue to inspire us. Rest peacefully in Kitty Heaven, little one.
Rest sweetly, "baby" Homer.. you have many new friends now that were my furboys and furgirls who are at the Rainbow Bridge with you.. whole and seeing, enjoy the "Heavenly" cat nip! Much love to Gwen as well.
So sorry. I'm a cat person also. We have 8 of them, and I feed several that live outside.They keep having kittens, and the Vet wants $75 to nueter them. Outrageous!
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