This week, cyclist Ana Luísa Panini set out for a training ride near her home in Brazil. A few miles down a quiet street, she heard cries coming from the brush and turned back to investigate.
“It was quite loud, so I turned back and started looking,” Panini
told The Dodo.
That’s when she saw her — a tiny black kitten, no more than a few days old, stranded all alone.
“It was actually difficult to find because the kitten was so tiny,” Panini said. “Judging by the meows, I initially thought there might be more than one, but I searched and didn't find any others.”
It’s unclear how the kitten ended up in that spot, but one thing was certain: Panini knew she couldn’t leave her behind.
So, she gave the kitten a ride in her shirt.
“The first few kilometers were quite challenging; the kitten kept trying to climb out,” Panini said. “I stopped twice and tucked her inside my shirt. Later, she became quiet.”
Once back at home, Panini bought kitten formula to fill the baby’s empty stomach.
Panini cared for the kitten for two nights, keeping her warm and fed. When it became clear the kitten needed more care than she could provide, she placed her with Angela, an experienced cat rescuer.
Had Panini not taken that particular route that day, the kitten might never have been found in time to be helped.
“I have a strong faith in God and the signs He sends my way. I’m so glad this happened; it truly gave me a sense of purpose to be able to save her,” Panini said. “I’m keeping track of her growth, and I really hope she finds a responsible, loving home.”
