Goodbye Charlie

Today is the day I hoped would never come, but I knew would have to. We have to say goodbye, for the last time.

I rescued you almost 7 years ago. Dad adopted you 3 years later. I promised to bring you back, but you two fell in love and became best friends. It made me so happy to see how he and the entire family took care of you; better than I could have hoped.

Two days after I brought you home. June 2010

Before we met, you spent the first few years of your life outdoors, neglected, and with rare human contact. Even so, you grew into the most gentle giant. And your life would only get better from there. You would go on to touch so many people, and everyone who spent more than a few minutes with you instantly fell in love.

You watched over my dad and brought limitless joy to the family. You brought a wave of calm over any room you entered. And you stayed at my grandpa’s side when I wasn’t there, just before he passed. You were loved by hundreds and will never be forgotten.

One day, dad called to tell me that he thinks you had seizure. I hoped it was just an episode, but then they kept happening. I feared the worst, but tried to stay strong.

He took you to the doctor and when I received the texts, I cried. I didn’t know what to do or say. I wish I could have been there.

I knew this was the beginning of the end. But we did everything we could. Dad kept me updated. I was happy you were able to be strong and were able to spend time with the family, but I knew it was so hard for you. You stayed in good spirits, but were clearly in pain.