This is a bittersweet blog to write, it is my last one. A few weeks ago Anna posted about my departure and since then I have been trying too find the right words to express how grateful I am to have worked here. I am very excited to move to the east coast to be closer to family and further my veterinary technician career, but saying good bye to my chimp friends is probably going to be the hardest thing I ever have to do. There are moments lived with these chimps that can never be replaced by any personal or professional experience, and I will hold on to those memories forever. I remember the day Cy’s group arrived to CSNW for the first time. I was SO lucky to be on the other side of the caging to reassure each and every one of them as they walked in to new spaces and were faced with new people. After that, forming meaningful bonds with them was easy-breezy. I also remember quite vividly the day that Burrito got bit by a rattlesnake…again. I was still not done with probation time when I had to step up and prove that I was worthy of the position. After that procedure, many others followed and it’s been an honor to be there for the chimps in their time of need. I am also going to miss all my coworkers. Everyone here goes above and beyond to provide the best absolute care and life for the chimpanzees under their care and I’m also going to miss everyone’s personalities. I hope to visit the chimps and people as soon as I can.
Also, huge shout out to Dr. Zamzow, or Dr. Z as I call her. I’ve always been lucky enough to work under Veterinarians that take time to teach but also promote hands on learning. I have learned so much from Dr. Z and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her.
Honey B
Dora
Rayne
Lucky
Mave
Gordo
Willy B
Terry
Jamie
Negra
Missy
Foxie
Burrito
Jody
Annie
Cy
Dear Sofia, your column was a lovely goodbye (sad). I am sure each and every chimp will miss you. Your coworkers and Dr Z were so lucky to have you. Your parting pictures are wonderful. Much success in you next career opportunity.
Ah, Sofía, te van a extrañar. Y nosotros también! Espero que te vaya bien cuando estés por este lado!
Thank you Sophia fo all that you have done at the Sanctuary, I am sure that you will be missed. Good luck to you in the future.
What a touching (last) blog. Thank you for all you do!
And you shared a picture of sweet Jodie.
Blessings to you on your journey.
Best wishes to you, Sofia! Thank you for your dedication to the chimps and your love for them. Peace be with you.
Beautiful words, Sofia, and thank you for ” being there” for the chimps. I guess the whole essence of life is about moving forward and your time has come to say farewell to the sanctuary. But you’ll carry sweet memories with you all the way. Take care and good luck.
All the best to you, Sophia! You will be missed. By staff, by chimps, by us. So glad you were here for Burrito when he was bitten. What a scary event, and whay a relief to know he was in such good hands.
Vaya con Dios!
Thank you gor the photos and for including Jody. Pleasant surprise.
Te deseo todo lo mejor de la vida. Buena suerte con todo. ……May you have many Sweet Moments with your Family..:tulip::heartpulse:..I know they must be sooooo Happy to have You Home soon …….PEACE AND MANY HAPPY TIMES AHEAD:rose:
Goodbye and good luck, Sofia, as you venture forth on your career highway What wonderful skills and experiences you will take with you as you continue learning in your career. Irreplaceable hands on with Dr. Z, as you mentioned, is just that irreplaceable.
Thank you for all the hard work, energy and love you poured into the care of the chimps. Any chance you can return for the HOOT event. I bought a ticket and am looking forward to meeting many online chimp blog followers and staff from CSNW. Enjoy time with family. Adios y buena suerte.
Farewell and Godspeed, Sofia. You will be missed but we’re happy you’ll be closer to your family. Many thanks for all your hard work and special care you provided to all our precious critters.
Did you ever imagine in your wildest dreams that one day you would work with, and form friendships with, sixteen chimpanzees and four cows? And you would take part in their healthcare and well being? Thank you, Sofia, for all the good your brought into the lives of each individual. I’m guessing they will all miss you, so I hope one day you find yourself back in the Pacific NW. Best to you always!
On behalf of the cattle and chimpeople, all of us thank you, Sofia, for expending both your mind and your heart in taking such good care of your friends at the Sanctuary.
We understand if you need to continue your veterinary education. However, if you get the chance, maybe you can come back to CSNW…I am sure that Terry will his hand kisses for you…
I meant to write, “I am sure that Terry will save his hand kisses for you.”
Thank you for everything and best of luck to you.
Hi Sofia thank you for all you have done at CSNW. If the pictures you posted express what the Chimps are feeling, they look sad to see you go and they will miss your tender loving care very much. We will all miss you and your posts too:) It’s great you that will be closer to your family. Please stay safe and best of everything to you as you go on to help more animals who need you.