Day 70

Every year, I donate to Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue Center because I deeply believe in what they do. Dr. Sheri Speede has done a fantastic job of helping orphaned chimpanzees from the illegal ape meat trade, as well as the community around them. It’s amazing to see how many lives she touches every year, from rescues and medical care to building schools. She is a huge inspiration to me, as I wanted to be a vet my whole life but switched to art when I was 20. Crazy thing, I almost worked with her in Cameroon right before 9/11. But that’s another story. Every year they have a fundraiser in NY. It was at the Explorer’s Club (above) on the upper east side. It’s a bygone era of a place like out of a Wes Anderson film. I highly recommend trying to attend something there. (Beware, lots of taxidermy. Not something they condone at all now.) Stefan and I participated in the silent auction and won a trip for two! We will be going to the rescue center in Cameroon to work up close with the chimps and Dr. Speede next year. Full circle story again! I can not tell you how excited I am to embark on this meaningful journey. One of the most thrilling things you can purchase is a one-of-a-kind, genuine experience. Helping animals will always be a passion of mine and drives my life into unexpected places that move my soul. Donate to the center here if you’d like to help chimps. Their numbers are dwindling significantly every year and every bit helps!

The art director in me can not resist a good photo opportunity. Look at this place!

 

Dr. Speede gives an update on the sanctuary. It always moves me to tears.

Dr. Speede and I chatting after the auction. I was thrilled.

 

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