Bran's Journey: A Tale of Resilience and Healing
November 14, 2024 · Cats
Bran’s story began with tragedy but soon turned into an incredible journey of survival, resilience, and love. On September 10th, a tiny, fragile kitten was rushed to ASEC after being found in the motor of a vehicle. At only six to eight weeks old and weighing just 1.3 pounds, she was in rough shape, needing urgent care for severe injuries.
Her new family, despite the shock of finding her in such dire circumstances, named her Bran, after the resilient character Bran Stark, “Brandon the Broken,” from Game of Thrones. They waited anxiously for updates from Dr. Barchard and his team, only later discovering that their determined little kitten was, in fact, a girl.
The Grim Reality and Emergency Care
The diagnosis was daunting. Bran had suffered multiple deep lacerations on her head and body, and her left hip was dislocated with probable permanent nerve damage to her leg. Recognizing the extent of her injuries, Dr. Barchard and his team quickly transferred her to Dr. Eginton and the newly launched ASEC Surgery service.
The surgery was complex. Five deep lacerations on Bran’s head and body were sutured shut, but a large wound on her remaining hind leg was missing too much skin to be closed surgically. To protect her, the team bandaged the wound and began the delicate process of healing it via "second intention." This technique allows the body’s natural healing mechanisms to fill the wound gradually from the inside out, a slow and meticulous process that requires careful bandaging to minimize the risk of infection. Healing through second intention often takes weeks and demands frequent bandage changes and ongoing care.
A Brave Little Fighter's Recovery
After just two days in the hospital, Bran was ready to go home with her new family. The family’s commitment to her recovery meant frequent trips back to ASEC for bandage changes and wound checks, first daily, then every few days. Throughout this journey, Bran began winning over the hearts of everyone at ASEC, captivating the staff with her spirit, playfulness, and even her adorable little outfits.
Thanks to the prompt and expert treatment she received, the exceptional care provided by her family, and the resilience of her young age, Bran’s wounds began healing quickly. Her only remaining hind leg responded well to treatment, and within three weeks, it was fully healed.
Back to Living Life to the Fullest
Today, Bran is back to being a kitten – curious, playful, and full of life. Despite now having only three legs, she joyfully climbs every surface in her new home, seemingly unaware of any limitations. Bran’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals and the transformative power of love and care. Her story will always be remembered at ASEC as a testament to the strength of the tiniest fighters and the power of a dedicated team.
Bran’s resilience inspires us all, reminding us that sometimes, a little help and a lot of love can make all the difference. Here’s to Bran, the brave and beautiful three-legged wonder who overcame the odds and captured our hearts forever.