October Story 2026
Behlül and Duman, Whiskey Animal Rescue
The Rescuer Ilknur:
“I want to share the story of Behlül, my very first rescued “child.” Behlül was the first animal to come into my home, and with him, a completely new life began for me.
When I met Behlül, he was about 1.5 years old. His previous owners had neglected him, failing to provide for his needs or give him any attention. They posted him on social media for adoption, and when no one responded, they planned to take him to a shelter. In that moment, I knew I couldn’t let that happen. I said yes immediately, and Behlül was brought to me.
He was a beautiful cat, but it soon became clear how unwell he truly was; he suffered from a severe internal parasite infestation. It was heartbreaking. I had Behlül treated, and we fought through that time together. From that moment on, he became more than just a rescued animal—Behlül became family. He was truly part of our home, our everyday life, and our hearts.
Behlül lived by my side for many years and reached the age of 15. He was not only my companion; he was a source of calm for everyone around him. He was like a protector and, in his own way, both a mother and a father to the many cats who came after him. Many animals live in my home today, and Behlül shaped this family. He taught my children to love animals, and through him, I learned what true closeness, trust, and unconditional love mean.
In the photo beside Behlül is Duman. We found Duman on the street after Behlül; sick, weak, and in need of help. We had him treated, and he stayed with us as well. In this way, Behlül and Duman became part of the same story: a story of rescue, care, and the choice not to look away.
Then came the hardest news: Behlül was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer near his kidney. I did everything I could to keep him alive. I fought, I hoped, I organised treatments, and I carried him through it all. But the illness came on suddenly and took my boy just as swiftly. It felt as though the ground had disappeared beneath my feet.
Behlül was never just “one of many” to me. Every loss hurts, every animal we lose leaves behind grief. But Behlül held a special place in my heart. I have never known another animal like him. Behlül could communicate with his eyes. When I was sad, he came to me. When I cried, he was there, as if he understood my tears. He would press close to my neck, curl up with me, and hold on as if to say, “I am here.”
And he was always with me. I slept with him every night; he slept on my pillow, close to my face. For fifteen years, that pillow was his place and when I had to bury him, I laid him to rest wrapped in that pillow so that a part of me could stay with him, ensuring he would not be alone.
Behlül is unforgettable. His love remains, and the wound of his loss will never fully heal. Seeing him in the calendar truly makes me happy, because it means his story lives on and his place in this world remains visible.”
🐾 Cats like Behlül and Duman are rescued thanks to your support.
Thank you for your kindness and compassion.