Cat cares for cancer patient in incredibly moving friendship

Webster, New York - A special bond with an unexpected furry friend has helped one cancer patient on the road to recovery.

Kelly's dad and Sweet Potato are now inseparable (collage).
Kelly's dad and Sweet Potato are now inseparable (collage).  © TikTok/Screenshots/french75vintage (2)

When Kelly Nugent learned that her father John was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer, she decided to move in with him – and she brought a furry friend with her.

Kelly traveled from Florida to New York two months ago to support her dad in his recovery, and took her cat Sweet Potato along for the ride.

"He started having a really hard time getting around and doing things and pretty much needed 24-hour care while he was healing,” Nugent told The Dodo.

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"My dad is my best friend, and I realized I just had to be there with him,” she said

But it wasn't just Kelly who stood by her dad during his tough time.

Sweet Potato seemed to have an animal sense that something was off with his owner's dad.

The two-year-old cat has not left John's side since they arrived.

He previously considered himself a dog-person, but John quickly grew to love Little "Tato".

"To this day, they’re just attached at the hip," Kelly said.

Kelly has posted several videos of the budding friendship on her TikTok account which have gained hundreds of thousands of likes and touched the hearts of viewers around the world.

John's health improves significantly

Sweet Potato and his new best friend even share drinks.
Sweet Potato and his new best friend even share drinks.  © TikTok/Screenshot/french75vintage

Sweet Potato and his "patient" have become best friends and spend most of their time together.

"My favorite part is that so many people say they look alike. Sweet Potato has a little white mustache, and my dad has a white mustache," Kelly said.

The best news of all is that John's health seems to have improved significantly throughout their time together.

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His cancer treatments have shown progress and he is now close to remission. The retiree has even started to golf again.

Kelly is sure that the sweet feline is the reason that her father is feeling better.

"I really think the emotional support of Sweet Potato and the cuddles and just being there – it's had a huge impact on him," the cat owner said.

She is confident that her dad will beat cancer completely with his loyal cuddle buddy by his side.

Cover photo: Collage: TikTok/Screenshots/french75vintage (2)

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