Tommy’s life took a tragic turn when someone in the area began deliberately pouring acid on animals, leaving Tommy horribly injured, half his face melted away. “I fell madly in love with him at first sight,” Michele Hoffman, president of Milo’s Sanctuary & Special Needs Cats Rescue, shared. “Even bandaged and on IV’s he purred and wanted to be loved. I knew then we would fight for him and, no matter what, give him the chance he so deserved.”
Tommy. Photo courtesy of Miles Sanctuary
The extent of Tommy’s injuries was shocking. Michele recounted, “half his face was melted away.” It was a sight that would break anyone’s heart. Michele and her team at Milo’s Sanctuary immediately stepped in, rushing Tommy to their vet’s office for urgent treatment. “Tommy’s injuries were severe,” recalled the attending veterinarian.
The acid had caused extensive burns, leaving him in excruciating pain.”
Under the care of Milo’s Sanctuary, Tommy underwent extensive treatment and found a forever home with Michele and her other cats. Michele, a dedicated advocate for special needs and senior cats, emphasized the incredible qualities these cats possess. “The blind cats are the most loving and amazing cats I’ve ever met,” she exclaimed. “They do everything any cat can do.”
Tommy. Photo courtesy of Miles Sanctuary
Her experience spanning almost 13 years in rescuing and caring for such cats has taught her a crucial lesson: “‘Special needs’ doesn’t mean a thing.” These cats, she stresses, are simply in need of a bit more care and patience but offer immeasurable companionship in return.
“In my many years of doing this type of rescue, one of the many things I’ve learned is that ‘special needs’ doesn’t mean a thing,” Michele reiterated. “They are simply cats who might need a little extra care and patience but in return you’ll have the greatest friend you could ever wish for!”
Tommy’s journey from a stray with severe injuries to a beloved member of a loving home is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of compassion. As Michele aptly puts it, “any animal you take into your home is a lifetime commitment,” but for those willing to provide it, the rewards are immeasurable.