First of all, screw that guy! I am a firm believer that there is the perfect someone out there for everyone, he was clearly not your perfect someone. I've never even heard of someone being so disgusted by someone elses career choice that they would go so far as to end a long term relationship... This just baffles me! What an idiot he is!

Don't think of those 8 years as wasted though, just think of now being a new chapter in the book of you I know the broken foot is probably not helping, but it will heal in time and you will be back on your feet.

As for the cat, if I lived closer I would totally help you out. I really would. I can't believe your "friend" would do such a thing to you! And in the end just tell you to dump it outside??? How could anyone do that!! Especially us animal lovers. I second the suggestions to find a small local shelter. The internet is your friend. Call them up and explain the circumstances. If they have half a heart they will take the cat from you at no cost.

Also, I admire people who have jobs like you. I could never do that personally (blood and guts gross me out) but by no means its weird or wrong... Humanity NEEDS people like you!