This is a happy follow-up story about Irwin the kangaroo and his keeper, Christie Carr. The Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, city council had been debating whether or not to grant Carr an exemption that would permit her to keep the partially paralyzed marsupial in her home. The therapy pet is really more like an adored child and Carr cares for the animal as lovingly as if he were family.

It would seem that all good things are in store for Irwin and his keeper as an anonymous donor whom Carr calls her angel, has bought a $50,000 insurance policy that will allow her to keep the red kangaroo at home. Having such a policy, which would cover any injuries Irwin could inflict, is one of the requirements for exemption.

There was no one more surprised than Carr herself when a State Farm Insurance representative telephoned to inform her that someone had bought the policy for her and that it was on its way to her via the mail.

Carr and Irwin have been inseparable since they met at the animal sanctuary where he was living after he ran into a fence and became paralyzed. The two have given each other a reason to live and their bond is so strong that nothing short of death will part them.

The city council is expected to vote on Carr’s final exemption status on May 3.

It is likely that the ayes (and also the hops) will have it.

Here’s to you both! (Clink of glass)