Somsri
Somsri (Gentle Lady) was a 70 year old female who was discovered dangerously thin, covered with sores and fresh wounds, working in a Pattaya trekking camp.
Somsri was also suffering from a serious uterine infection and her poor feet were deeply cracked causing her visible and unbearable pain. Prior to carrying heavy loads of tourists on treks, she spent years as a begging elephant on the streets of Hua Hin. Her owners were deeply in debt and so decided to sell her into tourism to clear their overheads.
When BLES Founder Katherine was alerted to Somsri’s disturbing situation, she sent out a plea to supporters to raise the funds needed to save Somsri. Within 48 hours, the BLES community came together and generated enough money to bring sweet Somsri to a much deserved retirement at the Sanctuary.
In a matter of weeks after the funds were raised, Katherine and her family made the long drive to Pattaya to sign the papers and bring Somsri home to BLES. Before their departure from Pattaya, Katherine whispered into Somsri’s ear that they were taking her home. Clearly she understood something great was in the works, as she climbed straight into the truck without any difficulty and munched contentedly on grasses during her monumentous drive through the night, to BLES.
Upon arrival at BLES, Somsri quickly found her way to the banana hut while the Gossip Girls - Wassana, Lotus and Pang Dow, stood at the top of the hill watching her. Wassana even squeaked a little ‘welcome my friend’ to the newcomer!
Somsri had a long way to go to heal as she required special nutritious foods and emergency foot care for her badly damaged feet. Once Somsri had regained some strength after her rescue, it was decided to transport her to the elephant hospital to receive treatment for her uterine infection.
Our lovely old lady sadly passed away on 13th March 2013, having lost her long battle with chronic infection. Although she was only able to enjoy a few weeks of freedom at BLES, we are grateful that we were able to give her precious moments of peace, freedom and all the fruit her heart desired. She lived and died how every captive elephant should - cared for and carefree.
