I wanted to punctuate the news about Negra with some other daily clips. We were certainly hoping that Negra would bounce back quickly. We first noticed Negra’s weakened legs (even more weak than they normally are) following a brief conflict in her group.
Since arriving, she’s had bowed knees and walked on the outside of her feet. You know she’s not one to exert herself very much. I’ve often marveled, over the years, at how those little legs of hers keep her upright.
She’s clearly having more trouble these last few days, though she doesn’t seem to be in pain, and she’s choosing to climb and move from space to space. We don’t want her to be in a position with the group where she feels she needs to run or jump, which happens fairly frequently with Burrito’s energy and Jamie’s bossiness (interestingly, Jamie very rarely challenges Negra, but when Jamie is mad at someone else, Negra often gets pulled into the drama). Dr. Erin is on the case, of course. She’s adjusting meds, reviewing footage, watching Negra move, and consulting with all of us and others.
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t worried, but I’ve been worried about Negra since the day I met her over eighteen years ago when she was still living in that windowless basement. She seemed frail and old then at 35!
On the positive side, Negra has been in a good mood. She’s handing out back-of-the-hand kisses to staff and volunteer caregivers like she was in a kissing booth.
And she is enjoying the opportunity to eat at Negra-pace, away from the group, which is very, very slowly, with food tucked in her nest for later.
:sob::sob:
Thanks, Dr Erin, in advance.
I have noticed her walking on the sides of her feet, many times. I just assumed it was a result of all of those years being cooped up.
I knew that was Missy, AKA LeftSock (it’s almost always her left, isn’t it?).
Thank you for the news, tho sad. We know they can’t live forever, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want them to try. I know how much seeing Neggie thrive there has meant to you over the years. Gather all of those sweet sweet kisses while you can; they are proof of her gratitude to you, for giving her things she had never had: space to swing. Fresh spring grass. The top of the pineapple. Birthday waffles. Peaceful sleeps. Peanuts, oh so many peanuts! Hope. Love. A family. A home.
(heads up, this didn’t push through to my email). Now I’m gonna go shed some tears…
Thankyou so much, Diana, for the video clips and the update on Negra’s health. As always you extend the courtesy of keeping us in the loop and although this is disturbing news Negra is a fighter and is in the best of hands with Dr Erin and the team.Also, with the love and support from everyone – particularly her chimp buddies – there is every chance that this fiesty lady will overcome these challenges. It was so encouraging to see Negra doing things her way at her own pace. A very grand lady. :sparkling_heart::heart::heart:
Oh, Neggie! You are in my prayers! Rest up and get to feeling better. Enjoy lots of treats and rest
Thank you all for giving her the best care possible. It’s impossible not to be worried, but I know she’s in good hands. I am glad that she seems to be comfortable and in a good mood!
Poor Neggie
I hope that she is feeling comfortable. Its hard to see her mobility decline. But to consider that she has had the glory of so many years in her sanctury home, surounded by those who lover is a true gift to see.
I was actually talking about her a few days ago, her turn around, her journey, how well she was doing for her age and her sweetness towards her human family.
I know that whatever the outcome, she will recieve the love and dignity (like a true queen) she deserves.
I hold you all chimp and non-chimp in my heart.
I’m so sorry to hear of Negra’s discomfort and weakness. I turned 70 in August, and feel much the same — legs weaker, swollen ankles, feet/legs splayed to give myself a stronger base for balance. Less active, especially through COVID, contributed to wasting of muscle. Also, inflammation and probably a bit of arthritis. I also prefer to eat alone, taking my time. And napping in the warmth of the sun. I’m trying some turmeric 1-shot drinks, to see if it helps. I adore Negra. She really is a Queen. Thank you for sharing, sending Love.
From one old girl to another……I hope you’ll feel better very soon Neggie. I’m worried for you, but I know you’re in the best place and there’s thousands of prayers and tons of love coming to you from all over the world.
This message is so hard for me to write. May it suffice that I love and adore Negra. I will pray for her and those who are caring for her.
I will keep sweet Negra in my heart, I know she is in the best hands. Thank you Diana for keeping us in the loop.?
:revolving_hearts:
i have been concerned about Neggie for quite some time but i know that she has been lovingly cared for by all at CSNW. i am so grateful that she has been given a safe and secure place to live out her life.
i just can’t imagine what terrible things she has had to go through in her life.
Praying for her recovery and for all who have given her so much :two_hearts:
There is nothing i can add to what others have said. But please know, Diana,that as well as our heartfelt concerns go out to Negra as she needs more rest, more quiet and maybe more alone time, we also think of you as well needing time to process all that the very near future brings. You have frequently expressed your connection to Negra from the moment you two met. Please know that both of you are in our thoughts and in our hearts as you carefully face what each day brings. Stay strong and true to your mission of kindness and love.
Thank you for sharing about Negra…she is such a dear, sweet, regal lady. Praying for wisdom as you all care for her and that she will keep reigning! Keeping you all in our hearts!
Just now, sitting down to read the blog with my morning coffee. Sigh. I’ve become used to Negra’s bowed-legged-outside-of-her-feet amble. I flat out marvel over the fact that she still climbs and meanders to her favorite spots on Young’s Hill making her hindrance work for her. Like everyone, I have a deep appreciation for all Negra has overcome so much in her lifetime. I have no other choice but to believe she will find a way, with Dr. Erin’s determination and your care and love, to manage her mobility with the new and future changes that will continue to challenge her precious elderly body.
It’s almost vibrant spring grass time. I have hope Negra will toddle out for a fistful when the day arrives. (My heart sang to see her go out in this video for her onion!) Or maybe you serve it to her in a paper bag so she can carry it to her mountain of blankets we call Negra’s Nest. I’m keeping the faith. Negra is queen of my heart, and she’s fierce in her sweet little old, soft and squishy way.
Negra wouldn’t be who she is without you, Diana. Hugs to you.
Thank you Diana; I can feel your worry but I have to think about Mary Ellis( I think her name was ), who lived in one of the bigger sanctuaries.
She could not walk, but got around very well and on her own time, with lots of blanckets.
It is good to know our lovely Negra is not in pain, for as far as you know, so she could still be able to live her life be it way slower and less mobile…..
I am hopingSending love and healing to all of you.
Get well soon, Negra!
I hope Negra will be alright. Getting old in any species is hard.
Thank you for giving Queen Negra a wonderful forever home and all the love you can. Praying this is just a “rough patch” and she gets back to feeling better. prayers, love, and support from Arizona.
Thank you, everyone, for your thoughtful comments and your healing wishes for Negra. How wonderful that she has all of you rooting for her! That warms my heart.
Sweet, precious Negra, you and your amazing team are in my prayers and deep in my heart. I love you beautiful lady. God has you.
Negra, I am sending prayers to you. We all want you comfy…..the team is working so hard to make sure you are feeling as good as possible. I love you.
I’m so sorry to hear about The Queen. I am glad she’s in good spirits! You all are amazing! Take care, Neggie!!