Kelly Nugent flew from Florida to New York two months ago to care for her father. And she brought her cat, Sweet Potato, to help her.
Nugent’s father was undergoing treatment for bone marrow cancer, and she wanted to be there for him. “He started having a tough time getting around and doing anything and needed round-the-clock care while he was recovering,” said Nugent
Although Nugent’s father loves animals, he is more of a dog person. He has never owned a cat and did not find cats to be exceptionally caring or supportive creatures. That is until he met Sweet Potato.
The cat and her father have become inseparable in the two months since Nugent and Sweet Potato arrived, and they do everything together.
Sweet Potato has been a loving and supportive companion for Nugent’s father during his cancer treatment, showing that cats can be just as caring as any other pet.
“Once we arrived and Sweet Potato got used to it, he immediately bonded with my dad,” Nugent said. “He never left his side, and they’re still joined at the hip.”
“Sweet Potato is so compassionate,” Nugent said. “I know he can sense when something’s wrong, and he came to dad as soon as he sensed he needed him.”
“I believe that having Sweet Potato around made all the difference in my dad’s recovery,” Nugent said. “He’s such a special cat, and I’m so grateful that he’s part of our family.”
“So, my dad has a chair that he regularly sits on, and every time without fail, Sweet Potato would jump up and rest in the tiny space on his arm while cuddling up to him,” Nugent said. “He would sleep in either his room or bed.” If my dad uses the computer, [Sweet Potato] will sit on his keyboard. Furthermore, if my dad is sitting at the desk working on any paperwork, Sweet Potato will lie atop it. All he requires is to be near my father.”
“I think it’s amazing how much joy Sweet Potato has brought into our lives, especially during such a difficult time,” Nugent said. “He brings a smile to my dad’s face daily, which is priceless.”
Nugent’s father has significantly improved since the nurse took over as his caregiver. She can’t help but think that her cat, Sweet Potato, is playing a role in his healing process.
“I believe that having Sweet Potato around made all the difference in my dad’s recovery,” Nugent said. “He’s such a special cat, and I’m so grateful that he’s part of our family.”
