Heartbreaking on one hand, but then inspirational on the other that you were able to persuade the colleague to adopt an older cat. Their virtues are countless, and the older, the better!!!

All my cats have been adult rescues, and my elderly Lily (recently RB) was so perfect that I shall forever grieve at her departure.

If only humans would not regard cats (and other animals) as lower life forms, we all might be able to sleep better at night, and rescue groups/shelters would not be necessary. Utopia, I know . . . but sometimes dreams do come true!