Neka was found in a sacred forest, her family’s disappearance shrouded in mystery. Hunting is typically forbidden in these forests for mystical and cultural reasons. Yet, after several days of searching, it became clear: her family was gone. Neka is an orphan and one of our youngest residents. She should still be clinging to her mother’s back, but one of our caregivers has taken on that irreplaceable and vital role.

Her start in life has been far from easy—she suffered from severe dental issues that made eating a challenge. After weeks of care and recovery, she has now joined her peers at the sanctuary.