Malli's journey began sometime at the very beginning of February in Singapore, Malaysia, when her mother and siblings took refuge in a 2-1/2 ton roll of cable set for shipment to Cleveland, Ohio

Between February 1-4, that roll of cable was sealed in a shipping container and loaded on a ship which set sail for Los Angeles, California, February 7.  Malli would have been about 5-6 weeks old at that time.

On February 25, the ship arrived in Los Angeles and the container was off-loaded to a long-distance hauler to traverse the United States. That shipment arrived at Cleveland's Samsel Supply March 7 -- it was here that Malli made her appearance to the surprised staff when the still sealed container was opened.  Malli was immediately rushed to the Cleveland APL where she underwent a medical exam, given fluids and food, and set up in a special quarantine area at the Cleveland APL.

Over the next 2 weeks she received the full attention of an assigned APL medical caretaker, grew stronger, filled out, and became quite a noisy little thing that demanded everyone hold her and pet her.  Her prognosis was deemed acceptable for entry into our foster care program and, witnessed by quite a few misty eyes, she left our facility for her new foster home.

For several days, Malli thrived in her foster home, happy to be the center of everyone's world - just the way she liked it!  Unfortunately, for a reason still trying to be determined, Malli passed away on March 22.  This has been a devastating blow for Malli's caretakers, friends, and for all the animal lovers following her incredible story.  Her behavior and physical appearance gave every indication that she would soon be jumping and running everywhere.

Her body has been sent to Ohio State University for exam, however at this time we do not have all results back from her necropsy.  Preliminary findings indicate it wasn't panleukepenia or rabies and there is no evidence to suggest anything exotic or of concern from a community health standpoint. It is highly likely that she either had a congenital problem or her entire system was already too far compromised from her arduous journey. On a more positive note, she at least knew kindness, comfort and love before she died.

As a testament to Malli's intrepid spirit, we’d like to take this opportunity to also recognize the other 280+ cats who are in our care right now.  Consider honoring Malli by opening your heart and your home to a cat from the Cleveland APL or a shelter near you and giving it a wonderful home.