In 1996, when I was newly separated and living alone, I was visited by a stray cat, about 6 months old, all-black except for a tiny white ring around her neck. She came to my door, called to be let in, and then proceeded to investigate every corner of my little apartment, talking to me all the time; then, apparently satisfied with her inspection, she climbed in my lap, curled up and went to sleep. I had been adopted. Just like that. I named her Shadow- partly due to her color, partly because she WAS my shadow, she stayed with me and talked to me all the time. She saw me through the roughest part of my life and was an INCREDIBLE friend, companion and support system for me. If I was feeling down, she'd come and wash my elbow or whirr at me or bring a toy to play with or something, to get me to pay attention to her and cheer up. She literally saved my life.

Sadly, Shadow passed away from a massive lymphoma at only age 5- I still miss her. She had a good life, but one that was WAY too short. But it's wonderful to see another Shadow, finding herself a forever home and loving her human parent in the same way.

CONGRATS to Shadow as COTD! Keep saving humans, it's a wonderful thing for black Shadow-cats to do!