Sunday Purrs: Overcoming Obstacles, Lil BUB Style

Every life will have its share of obstacles. Rich or poor, young or old, regardless of social standing or education, everyone struggles in one way or another. We have no control over what life throws at us – but we can control how we overcome these obstacles. And when it comes to overcoming obstacles, Lil BUB is not only the most amazing cat on the planet, she’s also one of the most inspirational beings.

BUB, who has captured the hearts of millions around the world, was born with a rare bone disease. Osteopetrosis, also known as marble bone disease, is an extremely rare genetic disorder in which bones harden.

When BUB was diagnosed, there were no known treatments for cats. Mike Bridavsky, Lil BUB’s “Dude,” and her vet couldn’t find much information about how to treat this disease, not even after consulting with specialists. By the time BUB was about a year and a half old, she was almost completely immobile. Mike had a Reiki Practitioner work with BUB, and also learned some energy healing techniques himself. “I was skeptical, but I also was ready to try anything.” The Reiki helped, but BUB was still having trouble walking.

Eventually, a device called the Assisi Loop made a huge difference for BUB. The Loop uses Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Therapy. The results were dramatic. After a month, BUB was walking comfortably again. After about five months, she ran for the first time in a year. About a year after first starting the treatment, BUB was running, playing and even jumping up on the couch.

A few days ago, Mike sent me the video below, of BUB running up the stairs, which is nothing short of a miracle.

I think we can all learn a little something from BUB when it comes to overcoming obstacles.

Never give up

BUB’s fierce determination and Mike’s dedication to her well-being are a testament to what can happen when you never give up. Even though specialist after specialist told Mike that BUB would only get worse, Mike never stopped looking for a solution.

Stay focused on the positive

Mike was happy aabout every small success along the way. And I’m pretty sure BUB never doubted that she would get better.

Get support

A strong support system is crucial to overcoming obstacles. For BUB, that support is Mike’s love and dedication to her well-being. We should all be so lucky to have someone like Mike in our corner.

Smile

I don’t think it’s possible to look at photos or videos of BUB without smiling. It may be challenging to smile when life is throwing you curve balls, but there’s evidence that smiling actually has a positive impact on the balance of neurotransmitters, calming your nervous system and stabilizing your mood.

Practice gratitude

It may be challenging to find something to be grateful for when you’re facing obstacles, but gratitude is a powerful force. Find three things you’re grateful for at the end of each day, and celebrate them.

Give back

BUB has made it her mission to raise money and awareness for special needs pets. She has raised over $75,000 through Lil BUB’s Big FUND for the ASPCA via grants offered by the ASPCA to any shelter in the country. BUB donates a generous portion of all proceeds from licensed products and from her own online store to the fund. Multiple studies have shown that giving makes us happy and even improves our health.

For more about BUB’s amazing life,
read my three-part in depth interview with Mike Bridavsky