Obituaries

Patrick was my greatest joy and the light of my life - my soulmate. I adopted him on June 4, 2011. He was a twice-surrendered rescue dog, who had been abused before being abandoned at the county animal shelter. I had never had a dog before; he was my first dog. When I saw him, learned of his history, and looked in his eyes, I knew in my soul that it was my duty to heal him and show him the love and devotion he had not been given in his three years of life. In as much as I rescued him and gave him happiness, he showed me pure, unconditional love and loyalty, and filled my life with joy and laughter. I knew Patrick was meant to be with me, because as a Notre Dame alumna, he was born on St. Patrick's Day, and was named Patrick - he was destined to be my Irish dog. For almost 13 years, he was my constant companion who made me laugh, and lit up my life. Together, we went for walks and hikes, and traveled by plane and car - he was a pro at traveling to Los Angeles with me as my carry-on several times a year. He was always smiling and happy, and extremely photogenic. He loved posing for photos and videos, cuddling with me, eating with me, going out with me, and simply being with me. I was his world - and he was mine. Patrick was a happy and healthy dog, but, sadly, he developed a malignant, invasive tumor - and operating would require a very painful and risky surgery - so, I opted to spare him the excruciating pain and long recovery, and, instead, devoted all my time and energy to being with him, feeding him all his favorite foods, and making him supremely happy and loved for the time he had left. He was fine for weeks, until he suddenly was not. He went into respiratory distress, and even though he was dying, he had a huge smile on his face. I held him in my arms, hugged him tightly, telling him how much I loved him, how grateful I was for having him in my life, how happy he made me all these year, and I told him it was okay... He died in my arms. He died with a look of serenity and happiness; he left this world with a huge smile on his face. It comforts me to know he died supremely happy, and that he had such a rewarding, fulfilled life. Patrick was mine, and I was his - and that is how it will always be. I will miss him terribly, but, I find peace knowing he is my little angel, wishing me happiness, love, and light for the rest of my life - and that we will be reunited again someday.