Your story warmed my heart. I have had kitties all my life; since I was 7 and found a newborn left out in the desert to die and took her home to nurse from my cocker spaniel who had a new litter. I now have another "Kitty" (many years later),who is going on 9 yrs old and has been my buddy through a lot of "stuff". None quite as traumatic as yours, but a lot. I hope you can keep your new friend as they can be so comforting and loving, it is worth every bit of effort. Much love and hope and prayers to you in this new year.
Judy