This special day of sanctuary was sponsored by Donna Hughes in memory of her beloved twin sister, and our beloved friend, Doreen, in celebration of their shared birthday.
“In Memory of Our Birthday, Doreen. You are so missed by so many. I know how much you love Chimpanzee Sanctuary NW, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our special day. You are with me still. Our wonderful visit to the Sanctuary is a cherished memory. I know how much you love Foxie and all of the residents (human and ape!) Until we meet again …xo Don & Samantha”
We couldn’t be more touched or thrilled to celebrate this special birthday! Donna and Doreen are two of the most delightfully enchanting, kind, loving, and effervescent humans you could ever hope to meet. They’re the kind of people who lift your heart in a world that doesn’t always and make you think, “Chalk two up for the humans!” Together, Donna and Doreen have made countless differences in the lives of so many of our fellow animals through their support of animal welfare.Though we were heartbroken at Doreen’s passing last year and miss her every day, I don’t think I’ve seen an instance of someone’s spirit and legacy being kept as strong as I do through the equally beautiful heart of her beloved sister, Donna. And there’s no doubt for me that Doreen is shining on all the lives she touched each and every day.
As long-time friends and supporters of the sanctuary, and Chimp Pals with Ms. Foxie through their shared admiration of troll dolls, they made a visit to the sanctuary a couple years ago all the way from their beloved home in New York City. I know they cherished this long awaited visit, but I hope they know that each one of us here did as well.
Don, thank you so much for allowing us to share in your special day with you. We are so very lucky to count you both as dear friends and members of our chimp family. I hope this day is filled with adventure, joy and comfort for you and beautiful Samantha Cat. I like to think Dor will be doing Foxie-style pirouettes and backflips right alongside you and you know she’d expect you to keep up! Happy Birthday, you two!!
Donna and Doreen and background (L to R): Missy, Foxie and Negra:
Jody, Foxie and Strawberry Shortcake:
May the memories of your sister bring you peace and comfort. Thank you for sharing your special day with the chimps.
What a beautiful tribute to two very kind ladies. Nice photo with the chimps
in the background. Thank you.
Happy birthday, Donna! To bring some light and warmth to what must be a difficult day, I’m crossing my fingers for a fun blog post with some neat new pics or video!
A beautiful, touching tribute to two big hearts. How fortunate you both visited CSNW, sharing the joy of actually being together with your distant dear friends. Oh what an incredible memory that must be! Happy birthday to you Donna. I just know Doreen is visiting the sanctuary again today in honor of your celebration.
Also had to laugh at the photo of the ladies with the caption “Donna and Doreen and background (L to R): Missy, Foxie and Negra” — as if Negra needed a caption! Who else would have been hunkered under that blanket?!
Such a beautiful tribute! Happy Birthday!!!
thank you all for your lovely comments. We both love CSNW so much.
I know that Doreen enjoyed seeing this from above.