Today marks six months since I brought Leo (formerly Earth) home from Toronto Humane Society, and he’s now 8 months old.

When I got the call to come pick him up in January, life felt incredibly uncertain. I was carrying so much worry for my family and loved ones back home in Iran that I even wondered if it was the right time to adopt a kitten.

I remember telling myself, maybe taking care of a little one will help me stay connected to the present moment.

What I didn’t know was that Leo wasn’t just coming home with me, I think he came to save me, too.

A few days after he arrived, I was reading heartbreaking news and quietly fell apart. Out of nowhere, this tiny kitten climbed onto me and started giving me little kisses. I cried even harder… and after a few moments, Leo seemed to decide, “Okay, I don’t really know how to deal with all this crying.” So he did what any mischievous kitten would do, he gently bit me instead.

It made me laugh through my tears.

That moment has stayed with me ever since.

Over the past six months, Leo has filled my home with curiosity, zoomies, purrs, and more love than I could have imagined. He reminds me every day to pause, play, and appreciate the little moments.

As someone who also volunteers with Toronto Humane Society, I get to see how much love and dedication goes into helping animals find their families. Experiencing the journey from the other side has made me even more grateful.

Thank you to everyone at Toronto Humane Society who cared for Leo before he came home with me. You didn’t just help a kitten find a family, you helped bring light into someone’s life when it was needed most.

Happy 8 months, Leo. Thank you for choosing me.