From all of us here at the sanctuary, thank you Douglas for sponsoring today in honor of your wife, Gina!
“In memory of my wife, Gina, who died earlier this year. Today would be our 32nd wedding anniversary. Although she did not know of the Sanctuary, she loved all animals and wanted to protect them all. I started following your blog because I grew up in Wenatchee and I believe my mother had some relatives in Cle Elum. Now, I am grateful for your care for these terribly wronged chimpanzees and I know Gina would whole-heartedly approve.”
We are so thankful for your support, Douglas, and our hearts are with you!
A flashback to summer forages with Negra and her ear of corn!
Jamie with her summer forage haul:
Annie enjoying her lunchtime chow:
Gordo enjoying the summer sunshine in the Riverview Greenhouse:
tomaustin says
Douglas, I extend my simpathy for your loss……CSNW is an incredible group of on-site personnel to care for the Chimps everyday….BUT, there is a worldwide group, which includes you and me, that take great pride in being part of the necessary support for their day to day lives…
WELCOME ABOARD….!!!
Linda C says
I am so sorry for your loss, Douglas. And I’m glad that the chimps provide you some small solace, as they do for many of us. It’s so generous of you to help make that possible by remembering Gina this way, particularly during what is surely a rough holiday season. Thank you for helping the chimps.
Mark B. says
Beautiful tribute, Douglas.
Betsy says
Douglas, this is a beautiful gesture on behalf of Gina. I can’t think of a better reason to exist, than to make life wonderful for each other.
Diane Kastel says
Your words of tribute to Gina are so moving, Doug.
And, it so, very, true that these chimpanees were “terribly wronged”.
nancyt says
What a beautiful way to. rememeber yours& Gina’s Anniversay. So sorry for your loss, but thank you for opening your heart to the chimps during this time of sorrow. May light shine upon you.
Susan Kathleen Feeley says
Bless you, Doug, and what a beautiful tribute to your dear Gina and a wonderful way to celebrate. I hope Gina’s spirit is soaring above the sanctuary watching these amazing Chimpanzees who have now the life they were always meant to live. Best wishes, Susan Feeley
Judy says
Douglas you are in our hearts. We who also love, support and follow every little detail of the activities at CSNW are certain that Gina would approve and that her spirit soars with this tribute and the knowledge that you have a “family” of connections through the wonderful people at CSNW.. chimpanzee and human. I hope that this season which is hard for you is also warmed by loved ones near and far. Thinking of you.
Douglas Marchel says
Thank you all so much for your very kind, and loving comments. And thank you especially for pointing out that it is a worldwide community of support that makes such a difference in the lives of these wonderful beings. (I live in Germany now by the way!)