In Memoriam. Across the Rainbow Bridge
Double Ring Silvan Tarees Athena
Athena passed away recently and the daughter of her owner sent some stories to me.
Athena was three or four years-old back when we placed her with the mom. The mom is in her 80’s, but still works a farm. Maria’s stories about Athena are pretty touching. I am sharing one of them here.
−Kathy OO
Dear Kathy,
How can I ever thank you enough for your efforts to locate another Kuvasz suitable for Mom’s needs?
Of course, my mother started telling me a few new stories about Athena.
Every day Athena would let out a special “yip” as a signal to Mom that the mailman put mail in the mailbox. Then Mom would go to the mailbox and get the mail. If Athena did not “yip,” Mom knew that she did not have to make the trip to the road to get the mail!
About a year ago, Mom and Athena were out working on fences. Mom was doing something with a crow bar. It was summer and Mom exerted herself too much in the heat. Mom knew she overdid it, so she and Athena walked back toward the house.
Mom sat down on the grass in the shade and Athena laid down next to her.
Mom felt dizzy and needed help getting up.
Athena somehow understood and stood up. Mom was able to get up by holding on to Athena.
She said that Athena stood as still as a rock to help her up.
Then slowly Athena helped Mom toward the house. Mom said Athena walked so slowly, letting Mom hold onto her, until they were in the house.
I know why I haven’t heard that story before. We have all told Mom to drink more water in the heat and not to overexert herself when it is very hot outside.
Thank God Athena was there with her that day.
There are no words to express my gratitude for the gift of Athena for my Mother.
–Marla J. Galbraith MS CCC-SLP
