My sister and I bought Max for my Mom back in October 1988 - shortly after her chinchilla, Chico, died. After distancing herself from Max for two weeks upon his arrival, they formed a bond that only a Mother and Son could share. That bond did nothing but grow more intense over the years. For the next 15 years, Max was my Mom's companion and best friend. None of us could understand it because, well...Max didn't really like anyone - except my Mom. Max was one of those all white cats that just had attitude. He ruled the George household and he knew it. In my Mom's eyes, Max could never do any wrong.

Otherwise healthy all his life, Max quit eating a few days ago. Mom was understandably upset because she knew something wasn't right. She knew Max so well, she made a statement to me that she felt Max wouldn't see his 15th birthday in October. I suggested that Max be taken to the vet and my Dad did so on July 14, 2003. The veterinarian conducted all kinds of tests (which were inconclusive) so he ordered blood work. I think all of us knew in our heart of hearts that whatever Max had was probably terminal - and it was.

Max was diagnosed with advanced stages of CRF on July 15th, 2003. He was a few months shy of his 15th birthday. As hard as it was to say goodbye, Mom and Dad decided to lay Max to rest and have him euthanized the same day of his diagnosis. Before Dad took Max to the vet, Mom took a bunch of pictures of Max with her digital camera. The pictures featured on this page are part of those pictures.

Max will forever hold a special place in our hearts (especially my Mom's) and I thank him every day for bringing so much joy into my Mom's life. I wish there was something more I could do to help her during this time of grieving, but I know in time, she will only cherish the days of his life and be grateful she had him so long.

Rest in peace, Max George. You will be forever missed.

Love,
Mom, Dad, Kim and Jennifer