Obituary: Chica—a small but mighty spirit

With a heavy heart, we had to say goodbye to our beloved Chica, who passed away on Nov. 30, 2022. 

Her departure has left a hole in our soul, our home and our hearts. Her body was small, but she had an expansive spirit. It was a spirit that gravitated towards my daughter, who after immediately holding her, asked to take Chica home.

I didn’t know what compelled me to say yes; I was allergic to dogs. Yet, in time, I would know the reason. Her caresses brought comfort and her barks—security. Her stares were from a place of unceasing love. She loved blankets and sleeping. She loved taking pictures and knew how to pose for the camera. 

She especially loved taking walks on the sidewalks of Signal Hill and California Heights. She walked her runway with fierce confidence. She knew her favorite streets and would plant her feet at corner lights demanding to cross the street.

She was my ears. Although not trained as a dog for the deaf, somehow she knew I was Deaf. On our walks, she would straighten, stop, move her ears in one direction and then the next. I would know if there was another dog or another person approaching from the direction from where she would turn her head. 

On our walks, I was able to meet my neighbors and their dogs. I learned their names. Without Chica, I would not have realized that I lived in a community that loved dogs. Without Chica, I would not have known that a dog is more than a pet. Without Chica, I would not have known how it is to love an angel. 

You will always be in our hearts and minds. Chica, we love you and miss you. Chica is survived by Zendrea Mitchell and Zamira.