Just last month in November, Mari Brooks and her 12-year-old son, Austin, lost their pet cat. Their home has been a little more empty and sad during this holiday season.
Mari knew that taking time to grieve over their loss was important, but she also wanted to make Austin's holiday special with a surprise. She rescued their new cat, Gizzard, from her work at the Humane Society of Genesee County.
Santa heard the news and wanted to help and be a part of the surprise as well! The video shows Austin going to take a picture with Santa, who was holding Gizzard. After the photo, Santa turns to him shares a few words, then hands him the cat. You can see Austin getting emotional as he is so grateful for his new furry friend and the video is brining tears to our eyes!
Mari shared with POPSUGAR that "Austin has been a volunteer [at the Humane Society of Genesee County] for about two years now. He comes in to play with the kitties, walk dogs, and he helps me at events that I plan. Austin loves all animals! But kitties really hold a special place in his heart. Our kitty passed away on Nov. 14, and that was his best friend. He loves to snuggle with them and play with them too."
Merry Christmas Austin and Gizzard! Thank you for sharing and warming our hearts.