I too grew up with rats, and I had alot them, Unfortunatly they do not have a very long life sapn. If it was 2 years old, that pretty good, as mine never made it past 3. So it sounds to me like you took great care of your pet, and it had a great life. I under stand the pain you feel. As rats are really wonderful pets. And its hard to explain the love they give you in return, unless youve had one. My recommendation. Go save another rat! There are lots of rats out there begging for a great home like yours. Good luck to you, and hope you are feeling better soon. And dont worry there is a Rat heaven, as My april and charlie and peter are there. Take care.......