Meredith, I did not know your mother, but I have the pleasure of knowing you. I dearly loved my Tess (formerly Mandy) --and still do, She is in heaven with my husband and her fur brothers and sister Jake, Ernie, Gertie Lou, Gus, and MaxCat. So you know your mother is in great company! You have given so very much happiness to the animals, and to the people who have adopted them. Your mother must have been a wonderful person, to have raised such a selfless giving animal protector and savior. May God Bless you and keep you healthy. I am truly saddened for your loss.