I work at a Sanctuary for sick, old, and needy elephants rescued from circus' and zoos. We have been open since 1995 and have been sanctuary to 24 elephants so far. In November, a 21 year old male Asian elephant named Ned was confiscated by the USDA and brought to us to care for. He was emaciated and scared. If you have five minutes, watch the video at this link and see what I mean.
The Elephant Sanctuary : Hohenwald Tennessee
He passed on this past weekend to his next journey and I wanted to share his story with you all. His short time with us here has really changed a lot of people and we are all better for it. Another of our Asian elephants, Bunny, passed on this weekend as well...a few hours before Ned. She was 57 and died of natural causes. Ned was in serious pain since the day before when he laid down and wouldn't get back up. We were using IV fluids to put painkillers in him so he would be comfortable...but no matter what we did, it wasn't working. When Bunny passed, Ned flexed one more time in pain...then remained still and calm for the rest of his time. He reached out his trunk and gently felt the people around him before he passed...almost saying goodbye.
My reason for posting this, besides just hoping to help raise awareness for elephants, is to ask a question. I myself am not a religious person, but I am not sure about what happens after death...no one can be. Do you guys think Bunny helped him transition on...or is it just nice thoughts for people in mourning? Being around these amazing animals...I am surprised every day at how intelligent they are and how emotional they are. Check out the website and see what you guys think...keep Ned in your thoughts/prayers/meditations.
The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee