It had been quite a few years since I got together with Deidre, the director of Wild & Free Rehabilitation Centre, with Lisa, formerly referred to as the bushbaby caregiver. at Lisa’s home, a few kilometers from here.
Arriving at 4:30 pm as planned, Lisa and I had a few minutes to catch up while we waited for Deidre to arrive, after finishing her busy workload, caring for lost, injured, or ill wild animals in and around Marloth Park with a passion and dedication hard to match.
Deidre arrived with friend Karin, and the four of us enjoyed beverages and an endless stream of fascinating discussions about Marloth Park and its amazing wildlife, and the issues faced by the rescue center treating old, injured, and sick animals.
Of course, we discussed Norman at length, and when Deidre credited us for “saving Norman’s life” based on the video Tom took about ten days ago, which we sent to her. She and the vets had determined that Norman would be euthanized the next day. After reviewing our video, they determined he was doing better and appeared to be improving on his own, and the next day’s euthanasia was off!
Whew! We were both so happy to hear this. When Tom returned to pick me up, he joined the four of us on the veranda, and Deidre told him this story. He was also thrilled to hear that his video saved Norman’s life.
We also discussed Nathan’s injury to his horn, and with so many animals in the bush with horns, apparently, this is a common injury. Deidre and the vets agreed Nathan should heal without incident. That was a huge relief to hear as well. Tom enjoyed the lively conversation with the women, and then we headed home for dinner.
Deidre invited us to visit the rescue center next week, and we’ll write a comprehensive story with photos of the animals in her care afterward. We can hardly wait. The centre is not open to the general public due to the risk of diseases carried by humans. Without a doubt, we’ll be wearing face masks.
Back at the house, we sat indoors to have a nice dinner I’d prepared in the morning, and before we knew it, it was time to wander off to bed, to stream one episode of a series, and eventually nod off for a good night’s sleep, which we both accomplished.
At 4:00 pm today, we’ll head to Jabula but stop at the Marloth Park Info Centre to see Louise and Danie for a few minutes. We won’t be going to Jabula on Saturday night since we’re invited to a braai at Daphne and Neville’s home, our teammates on Tuesday’s Quiz Nights. It will be another fun weekend.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, August 22, 2015:
