Dear friend of all the primates here, Donna Hughes, sponsored this special day of sanctuary:
“In honor of the entire staff at CSNW. Today is the second year I have had to celebrate my birthday without my twin sister, Doreen. Instead of spending the bittersweet day in grief, I know that Doreen would agree completely that this birthday should honor the hard working staff at CSNW. They all work so hard, each and every day, to help make the chimps life so complete. So today, we would honor all of you; Diana, you are such a hard worker, and always a pleasure to speak with; JB, without you, Young’s Hill wouldn’t exist; to the caregivers: Kelsi, Chad, Anna, Anthony – all the hard work you guys put in …I just want you to know how much all of us appreciate the blogs you write – so informative, so witty…the photographs that you share with us …so appreciated …Doreen and I were lucky enough to visit once ..and just walking around Young’s Hill was a pleasure to see all that you have accomplished – but even for those who have never had the fortune to visit – the blogs and photographs make us feel like we are all right there. Dr. Erin, who does so much for the chimps’ health, thank you. A special thank you to Katelyn, whose time and friendship has meant so much to me. Doreen and I got involved when it was the Cle Elum Seven. I am so glad that they have been joined by three more lucky chimps and of course, the cattle! I cannot imagine how difficult 2020 was for the staff – but there they were, doing what they always have done – caring for these remarkable beings. I look forward to 2021 and wish to honor you all on this day, my birthday. Doreen would approve entirely! Thank you for all of your hard work, devotion, sharing the lives of those you care for, with us. The blogs teach us so much, the photographs are superb. Thank you all, and I hope that 2021 will bring even more remarkable days at CSNW. Your Friend, Don”
Don, we are so touched by your gracious gift. Thank you so much for your heartfelt kindness. You and Dor are always in our hearts and minds here, and we’re so grateful for your support, friendship and the light you bring to all beings who are so fortunate to have the gift of knowing you. Both of you.
Happy Birthday from all your primate and bovine friends here, Don! While we know this special day may be bittersweet in part, we hope it’s also as magical and wonderful as you and Dor.
Your long-time Chimpanzee Pal, Foxie!
A happy visit remembered with Don and Dor (Missy, Foxie and Negra, background). We’ve shared this wonderful photo before (thanks to Don’s approval)…it’s just such a good one and always makes me smile. 🙂
This joyful, beloved photo of Annie and Burrito!
Foxie and the Orange Blossom twins:
Betsy and her son, Nutmeg:
Jamie and Foxie:
Honey and her daughter, Meredith:
Kathleen says
Yes to all of this! I believe your sister is visiting Yong’s Hill today. Perhaps she is peaceful ghost Katelyn wrote about recently. I like the idea that the unseen guest was Doreen visiting with her sanctuary friends.
Memories heal the heart. May you celebrate your joyous times together.
Jackie says
Kathleen, I like your idea.
Don says
Kathleen, what a lovely idea! I know that Doreen’s spirit is out and about on Young’s Hill. I know we all appreciate all that the staff does for all of the beings! Thank you! Don
Beverly Donovan says
Great post!
Linda C says
Thank you Don, from another pal of Foxie’s, for once again choosing your day to remember the chimps and staff at CSNW. (I know Katelyn is in there, too, right? A big part of the sanctuary’s heart and soul) May the sun shine on you more brightly today
Jackie says
Beautiful post.
Don says
Just want to thank all of you guys ….you see how much we all love what you do for the chimps..but how you share so much with all of us. I ADORE all of the photos, especially the Foxie one with her twin dolls! LOL! But all of the photos are so wonderful and mean so much to all of us. Your jobs are demanding in any year, I cannot imagine how difficult they were in 2020, but yet you all soldiered on, doing what needed to be done. I am so happy to honor you guys on this day. I know it pleases Doreen. Thank you again for all that you do! You are all the best!
Marya says
Your words are so heartfelt and impactfulI’m so grateful for the wonderful community of beings that being involved in the sanctuary has given me — humans, chimps, and bovines. That includes all the staff but certainly also my deep appreciation for those of us “out here” who care so deeply. No matter how long, hard, frustrating or stressful my day has been, I’m able to release it all as soon as I see a pic, read a post, remember what’s truly meaningful. My deep appreciation for everyone’s depth of feeling. That includes all beings named above!
Marya says
Your words are so heartfelt and impactful. I’m so grateful for the wonderful community of beings that being involved in the sanctuary has given me — humans, chimps, and bovines. That includes all the staff but certainly also my deep appreciation for those of us “out here” who care so deeply. No matter how long, hard, frustrating or stressful my day has been, I’m able to release it all as soon as I see a pic, read a post, remember what’s truly meaningful. My deep appreciation for everyone, including all beings named above!
Tobin says
What a heartfelt letter, and what a great way to celebrate your sister’s birthday (and yours). There is so much Good — both materially and spiritually — that is contributed to and surrounds this sanctuary, due in part to supporters like Doreen and Donna.
Arlene and Michael says
Don what a beautiful way to honor your sister and help others. Hoping you find comfort in the love and memories that your heart will always hold onto.