Bullied 7-year-old adopts rescue cat with same cleft palate and eye condition
7-year-old Madden from Oklahoma is a special boy. He has a condition called complete heterochromia iridum, which means that his eyes are two completely different colours. Only about 1% of the population have it. As well as this, he has a cleft palate, which are also extremely rare.
Recently, his mum, Christina Humphreys, noticed a picture of a cat for adoption in Minnesota. It had the same eyes as Madden AND a cleft palate.
"They were destined to be best friends," she told Love What Matters. "Funny how a pet can make you feel less alone."
Friends helped to fund a road trip from their home in Oklahoma to Minnesota to adopt Moon the cat.
"We’re usually not spontaneous people, but we knew that we were meant to love this kitty. Moon, the kitty, and Madden are the perfect companions for each other.
"In a word full of bullies and hateful words, we will choose to chase love. I think it’s safe to say that this kitty is love, and was certainly meant to be part of our journey and Madden’s journey."
At the age of seven, Madden has already received bullying for his appearance.
“There were a few kids saying really ugly, mean things to him. It really broke his spirit and he had a rough year. The bullying still rears its nastiness once in a while, but the only thing we can do is try to change our perception on bullies, and try to change the way it affects us."
The arrival of Moon into their family is "fate", says Christina.
"It sounds silly, but fate willed these two together. There’s no other explanation. This kitty was so far away from us. I’m amazed that we found out about him, and even more amazed by the friends and strangers that helped us get to him, and adopt him.
"Everyone needs a friend, and everyone needs to feel understood. I’m so thankful Madden has Moon. Not only so that both he and the kitty have a relatable and sweet companion, but also, I hope Moon helps Madden realise that being born unique in an incredible thing; that he is magic. These two handsome guys truly are a wonder."
Going viral wasn't part of the plan, but Christina says that they hope the attention will help spread a message of love and acceptance.
"We’re full of shortcomings, just like every other human, but we will always try our best to show others kindness, even when we face our most difficult adversary, even when we’re standing up for ourselves, and even when we feel like being kind is the last thing we want to do in a difficult moment.
"I just want Madden, and our other two boys, to grow up to be good people, and have healthy mindsets.”
What a gorgeous and special bond between a boy and his cat!