An Update
Gilby on the workbench, around 9:30 am this morning.
The past 48 hours have been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. When I posted that blog entry about Gilby, I did it with a heavy heart- I've got the best, most patient and understanding customers in the world, and the last thing I want to do is burden them with personal problems. Asking for help in any way, for any problem, takes a toll on pride. However, sometimes you have to use whatever outlet you have available in times of need, and I feel like the luckiest person on the planet to have been able to hold this sale for Gilby.
Emails started rolling in by the dozens as the message got out. People were reblogging, retweeting, and posting with such frequency that I had to turn my phone to silent because of all the mobile alerts I was getting from different outlets. Folks from around the world were sending in donations and asking for nothing in return but the wellness of Gilby. They sent tales of similar happenings, and shared their understanding in loving their own pets like family. The thing I was most blown away by was the support for not only my cat, but for me. Lots of the people I talked to offered words of wisdom, commending my choice to stick with a dying art form and do what I love. Sometimes it means stretching yourself thin financially to make everything in life work- but they understood. A lot of people reminded me you can't take money with you when you go, and that they were happy to help.
I ended up selling out of my current bracelet stock in 90 minutes, and belt stock in 4 hours. I watched as people spread the word to thousands of followers and readers, proving that this global internet community is more than just words on a screen. Through sales and a few amazing donations, Gilby's current care is almost completely covered. I've turned off the donation button, but the 25% off sale will be continuing through the week with code "Gilby". I have a lot of work ahead of me, and I'll get it all done with smile on my face and a healthy, albeit a bit tipsy, cat on my shoulders.
As far as Gilby's actual health is concerned, we're in a bit of a bittersweet stage. He's home and eating, taking his medicine, and drinking plenty of water. However, the doctors could not find any specific problem. He's being treated for an inner ear infection, but this could very well happen again. If it does, he'll have to go in for the big time tests like CT scans and MRI's. As you can see in the picture above, he's acting like any of us would after loosing all body control for 24 hours- he's cautious, quiet, and on edge. He's still regaining control, tipping over a little bit, but he's showing improvement. He's trying to sleep, but most of the time finds comfort in hanging around close to people, observing, resting, and calming down.
Ultimately, I'm really at a loss for words concerning the support we've received. I can't thank you all enough, and am humbled by the events of the last two days. I hope everyone that sent in a sale order enjoys their products in full health and happiness, and I'm sure that Gilby would like to thank everyone for supporting him as well. I'd also like to personally thank everyone for supporting independent artisans, handmade goods, and Corter Leather.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010 at 01:12PM | Share Article
Reader Comments (5)
the way you've tried to do everything for your Gilby, is not a humbling experience for yourself but for all of us. i dont know if i could ever react to things the way you have but you have my utmost respect and im sure many others out here as well. hope he gets well real soon. all the best and with best regards as always, ranon.
Glad to see Gilby recovering. That's all that matters. You did exactly what you needed to do to help a member of your family in a time of need. I hope both of you make a speedy recovery and cheers from this side of the country.
Please send my best regards to Gilby even though he and his counterpart chased me around the house when i visited.
Sincerely,
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Sounds like it is time to get pet health insurance.
You remain a value driven young man of character, pride and commitment. I remain so thankful and blessed to have you in my life.