The Story of June Joining the Rodwell Family
One early Wednesday morning, as usual, it was my turn to open up the school. While unlocking the classroom doors, I noticed an animal hiding under a table at the back of the first floor. Nervous at first, thinking it was a mouse, I got closer and realized it was actually a cat. I figured she might be from a nearby house and would wander back on her own.
A bit later, a student named Hout brought the cat—who we later named June—downstairs to us. She was in rough shape; unable to walk and not interested in eating, which had us worried for her survival. We took her to the vet, where we found out she had stomach issues and was bleeding each time she went to the bathroom.
There was something about June that touched me deeply from the start. Her eyes weren’t filled with love exactly, but with a raw hope to survive. I know it sounds dramatic, but I vividly remember that look—her eyes asking for help.
The nurse warned us that she might not survive and recommended we keep her there for a few days, which would cost around $20 per night. Without hesitation, Rod stepped up, willing to cover any expense. Shoutout to Rod for always being there when others need him the most.
Now, June has become a cherished member of our family. It’s not just her beauty that makes her special but also the playful, lively energy she brings. She entertains us daily with her antics, especially when she playfully bothers Jordan, giving us all a free show.
June has her quirks too. She loves walking across my laptop, pressing keys that drive me crazy but make me laugh and want to hug her at the same time. When I’m reading with my legs stretched out, she’ll jump on them, and it reminds me of my old friend, Charlie. Charlie was there for me on good and bad days, offering warmth with his gentle presence and familiar scent.
I sometimes joke that June is Charlie reborn. Though they look similar and have some of the same gestures, their personalities couldn’t be more different. Charlie was a warrior—strong, independent, and not easily approachable until his later years. June, on the other hand, is affectionate and easygoing, the kind of cat anyone can pick up and cuddle.
This isn’t about comparing them; it’s not about who was more lovable or special. I just want to mark the exact day June entered our lives, even if we don’t know her actual birth date. And next year, we’re celebrating June’s birthday. Shall we?
