Celebrating National Cat Day with Our Ragdoll, Apollo Sky

By Lori Conway | Crazy Busy Mama

If you would’ve told me a year ago that I’d be celebrating National Cat Day, I probably would’ve laughed and said, “Oh no, not me — I’m a dog person through and through.”

But here I am, a full-on cat mama. And honestly? I’m thankful every single day that God nudged me toward something I didn’t even know I needed.

Because sometimes, healing doesn’t come the way you expect it. Sometimes it shows up wrapped in fur, with bright blue eyes and a tiny purr that sounds like hope.

From “No Way” to “Okay, Maybe…”

After losing my amazing husband, Q, our world felt turned upside down. The laughter in our home was quieter, and my kids’ hearts were aching in ways no mama could fix. When someone messaged me on Instagram last year about a Ragdoll kitten, my first thought was absolutely not.

I already had enough on my plate as a Crazy Busy Mama — why would I add a pet to the mix?

But then, I showed the message to my youngest daughter, Lily. And that one small moment changed everything.

Her little face lit up for the first time in months, and I remembered something Q once said not long before he passed: “Would you ever have a cat if it weren’t for me?” I laughed it off at the time, but that memory came rushing back like a God-wink — a reminder that maybe this wasn’t random.

So, I prayed. I researched. And before I knew it, our family was welcoming a soft, sweet, floppy-armed Ragdoll kitten into our home — a kitten who would become so much more than a pet.

The Cat Who Helped Us Heal

His name is Apollo Sky, and if you’ve followed our journey, you already know he’s captured every heart in this house.

Lily chose his name carefully — “Apollo,” meaning God of healing and beauty, and “Sky” after a song that held deep meaning from the night we said goodbye to Q. I won’t share all of that again here, but let me just say this: that little name holds layers of love, memory, and faith.

Apollo Sky quickly became a companion, a comfort, and — in so many ways — a little reminder that God sees our hearts, even when they’re broken. He’s been a light in the dark, especially for my kids.

He curls up beside Lily when she’s doing homework, greets Fisher when he comes home from work, and somehow always seems to find me on the couch when I’m missing Q the most.

I didn’t expect a cat to help me through grief. But here we are.

The Science (and Soul) Behind Grief Pets

I’ve since learned that “grief pets” are, in fact, a real thing. Studies show that animals can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and provide comfort during times of emotional distress. But I don’t need science to prove it — I see it every single day.

There’s something holy about the way a pet sits with you in silence. Apollo doesn’t try to fix the pain — he just shows up.

Isn’t that what we all need sometimes? Someone — or something — to simply sit beside us while we heal?

What Ragdolls Taught Me About God’s Timing

Before Apollo, I didn’t know much about Ragdoll cats. Now I can’t imagine life without one. They’re known for being affectionate, calm, and almost “dog-like” in nature. They follow you from room to room, flop in your arms like babies, and seem to sense exactly what you need.

It’s almost poetic — because grief can make you feel unseen, unheard, and isolated. And yet, God sent us this gentle companion who does the exact opposite.

Apollo arrived right when our hearts needed something soft. And I don’t think that timing was coincidence.

I truly believe God works through the smallest things — a smile, a song, or even a cat. Especially a cat who somehow made NEWSWEEK with his curious jump off a ledge (yes, that actually happened — and yes, he’s okay!). Leave it to my cat to make national headlines. 

Lessons from Apollo Sky

Over the months, Apollo has taught us more than we could’ve imagined.

He’s taught me to slow down. When he curls up in a sunny spot and just exists, I’m reminded that stillness is sacred.

He’s taught my kids to nurture again. When you’ve experienced loss, caring for something can be hard. But feeding, brushing, and loving on this tiny creature has reminded them of purpose and joy.

And he’s taught all of us that healing isn’t linear. Some days he’s snuggly and soft; other days, he’s climbing curtains or chasing Lulu around the house. Grief is a lot like that — messy, unpredictable, and somehow still full of laughter when you least expect it.

Celebrating National Cat Day with Gratitude

So, on this National Cat Day, I’m celebrating the way one little Ragdoll changed our family for the better.

I’m celebrating the quiet moments of healing that happen when Apollo curls up next to Lily.

The laughter when he tries (and fails) to chase his own tail.

The comfort he brings just by being here.

And mostly, I’m celebrating the reminder that God’s goodness finds us — even in grief.

Because healing doesn’t always come with words or timelines. Sometimes, it shows up in fur form, with purrs and head-butts and a whole lot of love. 

To Anyone Grieving This Season

If you’re walking through a season of loss — whether it’s a person, a dream, or even just the version of life you thought you’d have — this is your gentle reminder: God sees you.

He hasn’t forgotten you. And while He might not send a Ragdoll kitten to everyone, He will send something to help carry you through. Maybe it’s a friend, a song, or a memory that feels like a hug from Heaven.

Apollo Sky isn’t a replacement for my husband, of course. Nothing could ever replace the love we had. But he has reminded me that love still exists — that joy can return, even in broken spaces.

And for that, I’m forever grateful.

A Thank You and a Little Cat Mama PSA 

I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a huge shout-out to Sheena at Iowa Royalty Ragdolls, the wonderful breeder who helped bring Apollo into our lives. She’s become a dear friend and has a heart of gold. If you’ve ever considered adding a Ragdoll to your home, make sure to check out her Facebook group — she shares so much education, fun, and community for cat lovers.

And if you’re already a cat parent, celebrate today by giving your furry friend an extra treat or cuddle. Maybe snap a picture and share it — tag me and tell me your cat’s name and story. I’d love to hear about how your fur baby has blessed your life.

In Closing: From My Heart to Yours

As I sit here writing this, Apollo is curled up by my side, purring softly. Outside, the leaves are turning, and the world feels quieter — but not as heavy as before.

Grief still visits, as it always will. But now, there’s warmth beside me.

There’s laughter again in our home.

There’s healing — slow and steady, but real.

So this National Cat Day, I’m celebrating not just a cat, but the reminder that love never leaves. It just finds new ways to show up.

Happy National Cat Day, friends — from me, the other babies, and our sweet Apollo Sky.