Vance was found in September of 2025, gravely ill with a severe upper respiratory infection and profoundly emaciated. His condition told a heartbreaking story long before we knew his history. Microchip records revealed that Vance was originally adopted from Harbor Humane Society in West Olive back in 2009—making him approximately 17 years old at the time he arrived in our care. Sadly, his former adopter never reported him missing. ☹️ The woman who ultimately rescued him had seen wandering around outdoors for nearly four years. She believed someone must have owned him… until she watched him grow increasingly frail and sick. When he could no longer fend for himself, she knew it was time to step in and act in his best interest. Years of neglect and survival had taken their toll. Vance suffered from severe muscle wasting due to age and chronic malnourishment. He was anemic, and his white blood cell count was dangerously elevated from ongoing infection. This was a cat who had been left to fend for himself far, far too long. At intake, Vance weighed barely 8 pounds—a devastating number for a cat with his long, lanky frame, which should easily support 13–14 pounds. Despite our best efforts and a standing offer of anything and everything he desires, keeping weight on him has been a constant struggle. His respiratory issues have proven to be chronic. When flare-ups occur, we rely on steroids and systemic antibiotics to help keep his airways open and as free of mucus (and, frankly, snot) as possible. Comfort and quality of life guide every decision we make for him. Oh, Vance… He is our grumpy old guy who truly just wants to be left alone—and we don’t blame him one bit. We respect his boundaries, keep him comfortable and well fed, and give him the space he so clearly needs. Sometimes, all we can offer is a safe place to land at the end of a long, unfair road. And that is enough for us. That is why we are here. 💛