Written by Harties Feral Cat Rescue Vice-Chair: Daleen Kotze-Chibesa
Professional photography Phillip V. Photography
When life threw little Mellow into the depths of despair, it also sent her a hero. Suffering severe burn wounds as a result of being trapped in a car engine, her tiny body bore the scars of unimaginable pain. But fate intervened in the form of Martiens Barnard, an extraordinary ambulance man from Hartbeespoort Emergency Medical Service, who rescued her from her plight.
Immediately after her rescue, Joanne from Harties Feral Cat Rescue was contacted, and Mellow was rushed to the vet, where her condition was assessed. The wounds were so severe that she needed to be sedated for the veterinary team to clean and treat her injuries. Big patches of burnt skin had to be removed, leaving her tender and fragile, but her spirit shone through. Despite her ordeal, Mellow showed remarkable resilience. She is, after all, a fighter.
In an inspiring twist, Mellow’s journey found an incredible ally in her foster mom, Jamie Traynor. While following Harties Feral Cat Rescue’s Facebook page, Jamie saw Mellow’s heartbreaking story. As a vet herself, currently busy with clinical rotations at Onderstepoort, Jamie knew she could offer Mellow the best possible care. With access to some of the country’s top veterinary professionals, she could take Mellow with her to work, ensuring that every treatment decision was supported by expert advice.
Mellow’s recovery has been nothing short of inspiring. In Jamie’s loving care, she was monitored around the clock to ensure she received the best treatment, and we’re happy to share that she made a full recovery.
A Growing Family
Mellow wasn’t the only one to find love and care that year. In February, the Jamie clan grew again when she adopted Callooh and Nova, two playful kittens who’d been removed during a TNR operation at a chrome mine. Living in horrendous conditions, these kittens had to endure unimaginable hardships. However, once they arrived, it didn’t take long for them to adjust to a life of love and comfort.
Callooh and Nova quickly bonded with Mellow, forming an inseparable trio. The three of them have become best friends, their playful antics bringing joy and laughter to everyone around them.
Callooh, Nova and Mellow now share a home full of love, care, and the promise of better days ahead. These special cats are a reminder that no matter how difficult life may seem, there’s always hope for a brighter future.
Jamie, Mellow’s owner, shares...
When I first saw Mellow’s story on the Harties Feral Cat Rescue page, I knew she was meant to be part of our family. Mellow had been found in a car engine in Brits, suffering from burn wounds. Joanne from Harties Feral Cat Rescue took her to the vet immediately, and despite her injuries, Mellow’s spirit shone through. I was in the middle of my clinical rotations at Onderstepoort, which allowed me to bring Mellow along and get expert advice on her recovery. Watching her heal and grow stronger each day was truly inspiring.
In February, our family grew again when we adopted Callooh and Nova. These two playful kittens quickly bonded with Mellow and the three of them became inseparable. Their antics brought endless joy and laughter into our home. Whether they were chasing each other around the house or cuddling up together for a nap, their bond was heartwarming to witness.
Adopting Mellow, Callooh, and Nova has been a journey of healing and new beginnings. Each day with them is a reminder of the endless possibilities that come with a fresh start. Our home is now filled with love, laughter, and the pitter-patter of tiny paws, making every moment special.
January is a time for new beginnings and endless possibilities. Mellow’s journey of recovery and the addition of Callooh and Nova to our family perfectly embody this spirit. Their presence has brought a renewed sense of hope and joy into our lives, reminding us that every new year brings the chance for new adventures and endless possibilities.
