Meet Layla
On January 22, 2022, a tiny miracle named Layla came into my life. Weighing just 93 grams, Layla was found clinging to her mother's back, as she went searching for food. Tragically, a heartless driver hit her mother, amputating her leg. The driver didn’t stop, continuing on his way, indifferent to the two lives he had just destroyed.
That afternoon, a kind gentleman spotted the injured mother and her baby. He gently picked them up and brought them to me. Sadly, Layla's mother succumbed to her injuries on the way, leaving Layla orphaned but not alone. The gentleman told me Layla was named after his niece, and with that, I welcomed little Layla into my heart.
Raising Layla was a journey filled with both joy and challenges. Her tiny nose and delicate hands brought smiles to my face, even on the toughest days. Layla didn't take to the bottle, and lapping wasn’t an option for her yet, so it required patience and perseverance to ensure she received the nutrients she needed. Grapes, skinned and juiced, became her favorite treat. I had to be cautious not to give her too much fruit to avoid bloat and its fatal consequences.
Layla progressed through the stages, moving from indoor care to her final stage before release in a large enclosure. She was such a mummy's girl, always seeking my presence and affection. Dehumanizing her was a real challenge for me, as I had to gradually decrease my visits to help her prepare for a life in the wild.
One morning (29 December, 2022), as I walked into her enclosure with her browse, I couldn't find her. Panic set in, and my eyes darted around until I noticed her lifeless body on the floor. How could this happen? Why did it happen? When did it happen? So many unanswered questions flooded my mind. I burst into tears, overwhelmed by the loss of another precious life.
Layla's short but impactful time with me was a testament to resilience and love. Though her life was brief, the joy and connection she brought into my world will never be forgotten. Another precious soul, lost too soon, but forever cherished in my heart.
