Hatice`s cats
In the heart of Istanbul’s bustling metropolis lives Hatice, a blind woman with a big heart and a special mission. For many years, she has devoted herself to caring for stray cats who would otherwise have no chance. Currently, she shares her home with 23 cats, many of whom are sick, traumatized, or elderly.
“I know what it feels like to lose an animal,” she says. “I’ve experienced that pain many times. But I have to keep going—for the ones who are still with me.”
Hatice lives alone in a small apartment with a garden, surrounded by densely built-up housing. When she moved there in 2005, her connection to street animals deepened. She witnessed their suffering and loneliness and simply couldn’t look away. Her cats are not just pets; they are her family.
Despite having orthopaedic limitations that make everyday tasks more difficult, Hatice manages to care for the animals. Many of the things required to keep them healthy demand physical effort. Nevertheless, she observes their behaviour and responds when one of them isn’t doing well.
“They often help me,” she writes. “They draw my attention to things I wouldn’t notice otherwise.”
Caring for the animals is not only emotionally demanding but also a financial burden. Veterinary care, food, and hygiene supplies all need to be covered, and Hatice has very limited resources. Every donation helps secure the basic needs of her cats and makes her daily life a little easier.
Every Donation Matters – Help Us Help Them
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