Sequim: Community donates $3,000 for surgery, follow-up care for China the cat

SEQUIM — Resting comfortably in her foster parents’ arms on Thursday, China the cat is recovering from hip and paw surgery after falling more than 60 feet from a tree over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The surgery, performed last week, was paid for mostly by North Olympic Peninsula residents who donated more than $3,000 to help China in an unusual outpurring of support.

“She is on the road to recovery now,” said Diana Lusby, who along with her husband, Eldon, is fostering China.

“She is feeling a little better each day.”

During the surgery, an upper portion of China’s hip bone was removed and two middle toes of her left paw had to be amputated because of protruding bones.

“But she is expected to make a full recovery and live the normal life as a housecat,” Lusby said.

About 100 people donated to “The China Fund” after reading about the cat’s miraculous survival story in the Peninsula Daily News earlier this month.

A few donations came in from as far away as Florida, Arizona and California — probably aided by China’s story on the PDN’s Internet site on the World Wide Web as well as KOMO-TV’s Web site in Seattle.

“We are so pleased with the public’s response to China’s story,” said Nancy Campbell, treasurer of Peninsula Friends of Animals.

“The outpouring of donations and get-well messages makes us all feel blessed to live in such a compassionate community.”

More in News

Dan Willis of Port Townsend, a docent at the Point Wilson Lighthouse at Fort Worden State Park, conducts a tour for interested visitors on Thursday. The lighthouse was built in 1878 when Congress approved $8,000 for the light and foghorns. Although the facility is still an active U.S. Coast Guard station, the equipment is monitored and operated remotely and no keepers are present. Regular tours on Saturdays and Sundays will resume in May. (Steve Mullensky/for Peninsula Daily News)
Lighthouse tour

Dan Willis of Port Townsend, a docent at the Point Wilson Lighthouse… Continue reading

EMT Teresa DeRousie, center, was recognized for her long service to Clallam County Fire District 2. Presenting the award were Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Denton, left, and Chief Jake Patterson. (Clallam County Fire District 2)
Clallam 2 Fire Rescue hosts awards banquet

Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue recognized career and volunteer members during… Continue reading

Construction set to begin on new marine life center in Port Angeles

Groundbreaking event scheduled for April 8 at Pebble Beach Park

A seal pops its head out of the water as a dory rower propels his craft in the calm waters of the Salish Sea. Whidbey Island is in the distance. Today’s high temperature is forecast to be in the low 50s with partly cloudy skies. Rain is set to return this weekend. (Steve Mullensky/for Peninsula Daily News)
Rowing on the Strait

A seal pops its head out of the water as a dory… Continue reading

Fire protection may impact insurance rates

New protection class considers nuanced data

The view looking south from Hurricane Ridge, where variable winter weather has limited snow coverage and contributed to pauses in snow sports operations in recent weeks. (Washington’s National Park Fund)
Lack of snow has impact at Hurricane Ridge

Water equivalent well below average for February

Port Angeles secures grant to aid in salmon recovery

State Department of Commerce to provide city with $109,000

Tickets still available for United Way of Clallam County fundraiser

Pajamas are encouraged, teddy bears are optional and comfort… Continue reading

Interviews set for hospital board

At least seven candidates up for commissioner seat

Port Angeles asks for fee to cover lodging tax contracts

Resolution sent to committee for administrative costs

Climate action group is guiding reduction goals

Reduced emmissions require reduced transportation footprint