A NEW resident at Aspen Grange in Braintree has been able to make the move feel like home by bringing along her much-loved cat, Poppy.
Rona Antoniou could not bear the thought of being parted from her feline companion, who has been by her side for 19 years. Understanding the importance of their bond, the team at Aspen Grange was delighted to welcome Poppy into the home alongside her owner.
Home manager Sharon Thompson said: “It has been a real pleasure welcoming both Rona and Poppy to Aspen Grange.
“We know how important it is for people to keep the things, and companions, they love close to them. Poppy has settled in beautifully and has already become part of the family here.”
Poppy previously lived with Rona in Chelmer Village, where she became something of a local celebrity and was affectionately known as the “Asda Chelmer Village white cat”.
Along with her twin sister Daisy, who lived to the age of 17, the cats were well known in the neighbourhood and would often follow Rona on her walks to the local Asda supermarket, where Daisy would usually escort her home again, while Poppy preferred to linger in the car park which earned her the nickname.
Due to a period of ill health, Rona was unable to care for Poppy for around a year, during which time the cat stayed with a close friend. When Rona moved into Aspen Grange she was thrilled to be reunited with her companion, and Poppy soon joined her in her new home.
The bond between the pair is clear to see, and Poppy, although now being blind, has quickly settled into life at Aspen Grange. She has become a familiar and much-loved presence around the home, bringing smiles to residents, visitors and staff alike.