RIP Lilypede Rodham-Swarthmore Swartz Bakshi

I have known Lily for half of my life. And this morning, my mom, stepdad, and I held onto her as a veterinarian put her to sleep. The vet will cremate her, and we’ll keep her ashes.

Lily walked into our lives, stole our hearts, and uplifted us whenever we needed support. She was with me through my struggles growing up, and now she’s gone. Our family showered her with love and toys. Lily was an integral part of our unit and irreplaceable.

We were fortunate to have her pass away peacefully at home with her family. But it’s going to be very tough for me. Sometimes I hear faint bells and think she’s walking into the room. Sometimes, at the far corner of my eyeglasses, I see a small white cat-sized figure on the floor following me.

Our pets don’t live forever. So hug them, treat them well, and give them unlimited love.