Meet Athena

Hi there,

I’m Athena (formally called Jess). I was born in October of 2019. I was adopted and surrendered back to the animal shelter by my first owners when they could not keep me and the new puppy in the same home.

I am named for the Greek goddess of battle strategies and wisdom. Mommy says she saw me and thought I was beautiful and cunning as I chased my toys around the viewing room. Mom loves books about the Greek and Roman myths so when she saw this name fitting - I am Athena.

Now, I have only lived with my mommy since July of 2020. Mommy adopted me from Paws and Claws Humane Society - I have a forever home. I’m spoiled. I have a bin of toys for my choosing. Fresh food every day and free range of the apartment when mommy goes to work. My favorite spot is the window where I can watch the birds and squirrels. I am an inquisitive kitty so I also have a leash and harness for adventuring in the neighborhood with mom.

Mommy says I’m crazy when I run around the apartment with toys in my mouth but I’m just happy she is home to play. One of my favorite games is hide the toy rat. I grab my toys and jump in bed to cuddle with mommy wile she sleeps, then in the morning she can find all of my favorite toys in her bedding.

About Me

I was adopted at 16 months old from China by my family Michelle Ryan (mother) and David Buchanan (father). 

I am a 27 year-old with many interests. I grew up internationally and have developed a love for many cultures around the world. I love to swim in the ocean and the pool alike. I also enjoy working with people of special needs and the deaf community. I enjoy creative writing and hope to one day publish a book. When I was in 10th grade I won a poetry contest and had my peace published in a poem book; Express Yourself Through Poetry - World Poets.

I graduated from Lourdes High school in Rochester, MN, in 2016. Following this achievement, I studied at various institutions across the country as I tried to decide what degree to pursue.

In the meantime I volunteer and work at Mayo Clinic. I love working in patient care were I can make a difference every day. Many people that I interact with are going through their worst experience and I am honored to walk with them. I primarily work on the inpatient solid organ transplant unit. I care for patients having liver, kidney and pancreas transplants as well as living donors.

Currently, I am also an independent study major and child advocacy minor at Winona State University.

My favorite way to spend leisure time is watching a good movie or TV show while keeping my hands busy with various art projects. 

American Sign Language

I love is being able to communicate with those who speak in alternative ways. One way I chose to do this is through ASL. While I am not fluent I find joy in knowing the basics.

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