Comment
8 July 2024
Several days have passed since Phabeni died. Even having been alongside him on his last night and into the morning, and having seen the end approaching, it does not feel real. In the moment, I need to do whatever it takes. I need to be there for Phabeni, for Stavros, for Liverson, for the other things calling my attention. I cannot think about the pain in my own heart. I cannot think about how it hurts to hold onto hope so furiously and then have to let it go. I cannot let go until the very last minute because I’ve seen orphan calves come back from the brink of death and pull through. We gave Phabeni painkillers and did our best to ease him in the last moments but there is no avoiding suffering. It is part of life.
For the first few days after he died, adrenaline kept me going. But the loss of Phabeni hit us all hard, as the loss of anyone does. We stayed awake beside the little bull, and listened to his breathing. It was all we could hear. Until we could not hear it anymore. Owen was not prepared for the autopsy even though he tried to be there for it, perhaps to offer us support. But it is a brutal thing to go through. Especially considering how close we had become to Phabeni over the months he was with us. We had come to love him. Stavros, Herman, Khensani, Reply, Joshua, Liverson… these men and women were a family to Phabeni. They celebrated when Setombe took him in, they cried with me seeing how the females in the herd allowed him to comfort suckle from them. We were devoted to him every day, with every trying milk feeding, every nap under the reeds, every race to meet his herd, every night beside his sheep.
At first, I thought… what now? What do we do with ourselves now? But I remembered quickly, the herd. We still need to be there for the herd. In a way, they rescued us in this moment of tragedy. Every day we have 23 carers seeing to the health, wellbeing and safety of the herd, in the bush and in the homestead. They may no longer be calves, but their needs are plentiful. Fishan’s leg, Fishan and Tokwe’s colic, Mambo’s sparring wounds, Klaserie’s floppy ear, Pisa’s abscess, Somopane’s cracked skin, Sebakwe’s broken tusk, the maladies come and go, but the herd always needs us. To be needed is a beautiful thing. It guides you, it rewards you, but it can also break your heart.
The odds of survival for elephant orphan calves is low. A report by BBC sharing the loss of an orphan at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust when Dame Daphne Sheldrick was still alive, shared that as many calves that survive, die. There is simply so much against them each step of the way for the first two years of their lives. It is a far easier task to raise rhino orphan calves, since they are able to thrive on a standard milk formula that suits all and does not need to be changed. My time raising rhino orphans was certainly hard work, but not nearly as challenging as caring for these gentle giant babies.
Watching Daphne in the video interview with BBC as she got emotional over the loss of a baby in their care, I can’t help but find comfort in seeing especially a woman in conservation letting her raw and real feelings show. Even the carers show their hearts’ truths. So often in conservation, cold facts and statistics lead. But there is a very real human and animal heart to the stories of the work we do, in the loss and triumph. We battled with Khanyisa over the years, but were able to pull her through. Similarly with Jabulani, Timisa and Kumbura, these little fighters thrived enough to walk alongside the other orphans from Zimbabwe. But the odds claim many.
I know that thousands of people around the world ached with us over the loss of Phabeni. But I’d like to share with you the beautiful words left in a comment by @kat-kess on YouTube: Don’t turn away from the broken places. “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” – Rumi. In a world riven with darkness, Phabeni was light. Where there is hatred, he was love; where there is cruelty he was kindness, affection, joy. Little Phabeni in your short life, you allowed us to see and be all that is Good in this world. Thank you for that rare gift.
Thank you all so very much for all the excellent work you all do for the baby elephants. I’m sure Phabeni is looking down from heaven, with his Mother, on you all with great love and affection. ❤❤🐘🐘🙏🙏
Adine, thank you for sharing your beautiful letter with us and the video from Sheldrick wildlife trust. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to watching baby Phabeni learn to trust and love his beautiful Humans and elephant family. Thank you so much for sharing him with us. The adorable little bull will always be loved and remembered. ❤️🐘🙏
Me n my sister was so upset when we hear the bad news we still can’t believe he is gone but he will not be forgotten i even name one of my pet the same name n we will allways love the heard n will continue giving u guys the love n help u all need God bless
Phabeni was the light and his loss is surreal. He will be missed but never forgotten. Adine I am extremely sorry for your loss and along with all the carers all I can send is love and to remember Phabeni. 🐘🐘❤️❤️
So many smiles given to me (to all of us!) by that dear little boy. Greatly missed…..
Adine and your wonderful family of carers,
I think I speak for all of us on the outside looking in:
We feel your loss and the grief of losing such a precious baby. I couldn’t wait to see Phabeni’s next step each day. Stay strong, your work is far from over. Thank you for all you do.
Thank you for your kind words and support, it means the world to our team.
Having followed Phabeni’s journey, I was so sad that he died, despite his carers and especially Adine working so hard to save him. I can only thank you and praise you for putting in so much effort. Thank you for sharing your letter, Adine. It’s truly heartwarming to see how much love you poured on this little one and how much joy he brought to you and the team. He did not have the chance to live life to the full but I hope you can find a measure of peace in the thought that you cared for him as well as you possibly could. My heart goes out to you, Adine, and the team. I’m sure I’m one of many who feel for you and the team and who also shed tears for this baby elephant as we treasured him from watching his journey through your posts.
Thank you for your kind words and support. The impact he had on the HERD team and our community will live on forever.
It was heartbreaking to lose Phabeni. I loved his fiesty personality. It was also heartbreaking seeing Septombe in mourning. My heart breaks for her. I admire each of you who care for each elephant in the herd. In his short life on this earth, he was loved by each of you and the herd and he was well taken care of by all. For that, I am grateful and find peace in that. Thank you.❤️
The loss of Phabeni has been deeply painful for all of us, Setombe the elephant herd. We will always cherish the memories and the time we had with him.
Beautiful words Adine. We mourn with you, with the carers and the herd. Thank you for allowing us into little Phabeni’s life, it was a joy to watch him and a privilege to add him to my adopted elephant family. Broken hearts do eventually heal and memories bring joy in remembering. You all have a new guardian angel watching over you.
Phabeni het n seer plekkie kom toemaak, n gapende moederhart, nadat my enigste seun onverwags dood is in motorongeluk. My man na hart aanval..dit is iets gewees wat my, n katte liefhebber, se hart snare geraak het. Die Balsem van Gilead het God onse pragtige Bulletjie Phabeni gebruik om my seer weg te neem. Dit het my so geseẽn om Phabeni te Sien.. Die stoei wanneer melk bottels gedronk was, Lammie en Spottie met Nandi ook om Phabeni. Dit het nuwe betekenis in my dag gebring. Ek gaan hom baie mis en stuur Stywe drukkies vir Almal. Julle het alles mens lik gedoen met soveel liefde
love you.
ฉันขอขอบพระคุณที่คุณและทีมผู้ดูแล ช่วยเหลืออและดูแลช้างกำพร้า ฉันเห็นด้วยกับข้อความที่คุณยกมา Phabeni คือความรัก ความเมตตา และสิ่งที่งดงามในโลกนี้
Thank you for the love and for supporting our team during this difficult time.
I too still mourn the loss of Phabeni. Adine, I can imagine how you feel inside with all the worries you described at Herd. I wish you a lot of strength, because you are the deciding factor in everything. I wish the whole team much success in alleviating and healing the herd’s problems!
Thank You for the letter.
Having had to say goodbye to several of my beloved animals, I can feel the pain in your hearts, brings tears to my eyes even though you are so far away. Hugs to you Adine and to Phabini’s other carers who loved him also. Years ago I read a book called Mr God this Anna, Anna described Mr God as being in her middle. I feel Phabeni was in your middle, it hurts so to lose one who is in your middle. Time will heal this pain, sometimes it takes quite a while, but part of him I think will always be in your middle. Glad you all have purpose in life in caring for your other flock to help you, while you are going through this difficult time.
Thank you for your message, it does hurt immensely to lose someone so special. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
beautiful words .all our hearts are with you all .Phabeni brought light and laughter into all your hearts and ours .he was loved by everyone and by the herd .you all at Herd did your best and you could tell he loved his human herd in return
We love Herd and were devastated when Phabeni died. Thankyou Adine, Stavros and your great team for all you do and did for this little orphan boy and the beautiful survivors. We cried with you and Setombe and Allomothers, even little Khanyisa who was such a good friend to Phabeni. You people are wonderful so please continue to give all your special gifts for these gentle giants. What a joy they are to watch – little ones, big ones – just a joy. May God continue to bless you all.
our message means a great deal to us. Thank you for for the love and for standing with us during this difficult time.
Phabeni brought light and love to all of us.
He was a bright light in our lives. We think of his feisty spirit every day.
My heart is broken too.
I watched you and the Herd care for this charming little calf for months. It brought me so much joy.
You do not grieve alone.
Thank you for once again sharing with all of us. We may not be there physically, but we feel everything you do. You all do a great work! If not for all of you, the elephant might no longer exist, or it would be in more danger then it already is. This is the third baby I have watched you all with, and it doesn’t get easier. God bless you all for what you do.
Sending special love to you all.
Thank you Aidine for your heartfelt words in your beautiful letter.
Please know everyone of you are in my heart during these sorrowful times. Bless you all.
Adine, carers and all who keep Herd where it is.
I was still am heartbroken 💔 at the loss of little Phabeni. The first that I adopted.
I can not imagine what you are all feeling being with him from when you rescued him to his last breath.
We get so attached that it feels like our world has fallen apart, when we loose them.
Every thing was done for Phabeni and I don’t think anything more could have been done.
I console myself thinking…
We are all here for a number of seasons 🙌
Phabeni’s seasons were over and he had to leave this world.
I pray that you find consolation in all the Ellie’s you have helped and are leading a great life at Herd.
Sending much Love and Healing light to all.
Thank you for all you do.
Aurora
We truly appreciate your kind words. Phabeni’s spirit will forever be part of the HERD family and community.
Adine, Thank you for writing this letter to us. This is such a sad time for you and the caregivers at HERD along with us. Phabeni was such a joy to watch and how all the other elephants loved him and took him in as family. We hoped he would grow strong like Khanyisa’s who we adopted and love. Thank you for all you do.
Thank you for your kindness and support.
awww my heart breaks. But you have to be so strong. RIP my darling boy thank you for the smiles you gave us. Cuddle your Mamma
Sweet Phabeni created our ultimate hopes for his future. His heart breaking, short life will always have a loving space in our hearts. This sadness is overwhelming.
Pabeni will always be a warm glow in my heart. I’m a senior and my heart is full of warm glows – love. I send to the HERD team the warmest hugs for the huge hearts you all have that are also full of warm glows.
Thank you Adine for your heartfelt letter, and your courage and bravery in keeping this wonderful herd happy and healthy. Phabeni has left a big hole in your heart, but this is because you loved and cared for him so dearly. Where there is loss, there is pain. You are all in my thoughts at this very sad time xxx
I have grieved two babies with you now since I found your You Tube channel. Please accept my profound condolences to all this little bull touched in a very emotional and loving way.
Your support means the world to us during this time of loss.
Adine and staff– Your model of care for little Phabeni was Christ-like. What an inspiration. What would have broken so many people’s spirits, you and the carers overcame to continue supporting Phabeni in every way you could think of. He was a bit of a rascal. Who knows how he was feeling inside. What you showed us was an example of what the human spirit can do against the most extraordinary odds. We will always support you in our thoughts, hearts, and wallets.
Thank you for your heartfelt message.
Adine I feel the pain of the loss of Phabeni. He was such a special boy. I mourn his loss with u all.
I am having a very hard time trying to put into words just how devastated I feel for Adine, the caretakers and especially the herd. My heart is breaking
The only consolation I can latch onto ie that for a short while we were all privileged to have known and loved Phabeni and will never forget him
We miss Phabeni every day, but his memory lives on.
Adine thank you so much to take the time to send us the world the heart felt message about Phabine,my heart goes out to all of you 💕💕💕💕 I deeply fell in love with Phabine just like the whole world did I am thankful every day Khanyisa made it I know it is a lot harder for you and the carer’s be cause you have to be strong and push on for rest of the hurd, but for people across the world me hurt and cry everyday my deepest regrets go out to all of you Velma Cash
me hiciste llorar.
te envio , les envio a todos un abrazo fuerte y deseo de corazon las cosas mejoren.
phabeni vive con ustedes.
esta en sus corazones
y se , estoy seguro que en otro plano , buscara la forma de regresar…como viento…como agua… como brisa… como quiza otro bebe elefante tierno, noble , dulce y amante de la vida.
cuidate mucho adine ,y gracias por todo tu esfuerzo.
no words, just reaching out to you all with love in my heart we all know you did everything possible for this beautiful but fragile sentient being.
Thanks for this letter Adine. Just yesterday, I was wishing that we would hear from you. I’ve been thinking about how you must be feeling since you were essentially Phabeni’s human mother and loved and took care of his as a loving mother would. I’m heartbroken and in grief over Phabeni. I really loved that little boy and can’t fully accept that he is gone. I thank you and the team of carers at Herd who put your hearts and souls into lovingly raising Phabeni. I know the carers are heartbroken too. Yes, suffering is a part of life, one we have to accept, but we don’t have to like. That Phabeni suffered at the end may be part of life, but I don’t like it and it hurts me to think about it. It may be real, but I think we can still be heartbroken about it. Nobody wanted that baby boy to suffer or die. And just as your heart is broken and you have to keep going on, doesn’t mean that you don’t have to take care of yourself for the pain. I think pain and death of a baby is counterintuitive to human hearts and souls. Hearts and souls don’t care about facts. Especially that suffering is part of life. I’m so very sorry for the loss of your little boy Phabeni and I pray for you to have comfort from your pain. Thank you for everything you do for all the Ellie’s at Herd and for everything you did to try to heal Phabeni and keep him alive.
Warm regards, Jean
Thank you for your heartfelt message. The loss of Phabeni has been very difficult, and it will take time for the HERD community to recover. Thank you for for the love and for standing with us during this difficult time.
I thought I was all cried out until I read this letter…
If animals and humans met in heaven, Daphne Sheldrick would be greeted by every new elephant’s arrival for what she has done. It’s taken me a lifetime to understand why an animal’s death hurts my heart more than a human’s. It is their innocence. Life will continue and we can only hope that the HERD and other rescue operations never give up.
Thank you for sharing the lovely thought, Andrew. We miss Phabeni dearly.
Adine, I cried while reading your beautiful letter . Just yesterday I was speaking with my sister on the phone and told her about your phenomenal work. I mention Phabeni’s death and how it left a hole in my heart.. I share your sadness. . I also told my sister, that possibly I missed my calling, and that I wish I could take care of elephants. I am so inspired by you, and all of the carers. You did everything possible to save baby Phabeni. Thank you all for your dedication to one of God’s greatest creations. May peace be with you , and may you recover from this tragedy. All animals go to heaven, and who knows God may have big plans for Phabeni. God Bless you all.
Dear Adine and all the carers,
A beautiful letter from you. Thank you for sharing Phabeni with us. He, like all the elephants & animals in your care, was blessed to have you all caring for them. Just wish it wasn’t necessary and that all animals were allowed to live their lives in peace.
Sending heartfelt love to you all at this tragic time.
We are so grateful for your heartfelt message. Phabeni’s legacy will continue to inspire us.
Thank you for this beautiful letter. May you and all the other carers be strong and continue to provide love and comfort to all the elephants there. Phabeni will live in yours and all our hearts forever 💙🩶🐘🙏🩵💜🌈
I salute you all, just watching from afar has been so heartbreaking. Everything you guys do matters, you did your best, but it was not to be. His spunky little soul will never be forgotten. Strength to all involved.
We truly appreciate your kind words. Phabeni’s feisty spirit will always be part of us.
My heart still hurts for this loss though I am accepting it a little more each day. I try to learn everything the elephants share through their experiences. Adine you explain things so well and it helps me even when my emotions are so strong. Phabeni went through do much in his short life but the main thing is that he knew love and happiness. He gave so much to all of us which I will always remember. RIP littlle guy. Our love surrounds you as you go on your journey. Thank you Adine, all the carers, Dr. Rogers and especially the elephants.
Your kindness is deeply appreciated. we are glad your found comfort in Adine’s words. We miss Phabeni every day, but his memory lives on.
I have been watching the journey of Phabeni and all of you. My heart is broken with you. I so loved the videos of that little bull. The work you do is so important and I have learned much about elephants thanks to Herd. Much love friends. 🩵❤️🩵
Adine–I love you and all of the carers of the HERD elephants. I have cried for the losses but I rejoice in the possibility that they are together. Thank you for being strong and remembering what your goals are and taking care of everyone.
will always remember you Phabeni with love and joy. and I promise you I shall remain a faithful part of your herd and do whatever I can for the health and happiness of all your family
Rest in heaven little man, I will miss you terribly, now you can be truly free.
May Love give you the strength you need to withstand these strong winds blowing across your lives with the loss of precious Phabeni. May Mother Father God take him up into the Highest Realms of Light and Love. I’m so so sorry. You did your best for him every moment.
My heart breaks for all of you and the herd but thank you so much for all you do in caring for these amazing and beautiful creatures.
I loved watching Phabeni’s life unfold with the loving carers and the herd. I am very sad about losing him, and very sad about all the losses the beautiful creatures have. He is just one sweet example that we could all embrace. Sending love and light.
I’m grateful for having had the opportunity to share in the ups and downs during Phabeni’s short time at HERD. It’s life.
I rejoiced when I would see a video hurrah-ing Phabeni for polishing his goat milk bottle. Seuntjie was getting his nutrients!!! And I would send loving thoughts his way if I didn’t see an update.
No matter what, I knew that the team at HERD was pulling out all the stops to ensure Phabeni’s health and safety.
Beautiful Seuntjie captured my heart! And so have the others!
Thank you, Adine ♥️
Thank you for your support. The impact he had on HERD and our community will live on forever.
Dear Adine and all at Herd
Thank you for this heartfelt letter you have shared with us. I still find it hard that Phabeni is left us and so miss seeing him running along with the Herd in the bush. I think of you all so very much as you carry on the wonderful work you all do for these beautiful animals. Sending you all love and hugs. Bev
Please, you and we MUST find a way to bring more elephant calves through this process to survive to adulthood. There is always an answer to every question and/or problem and somehow we must find it. I personally am too raw emotionally at this time to speak more of this now. I know you all tried everything to bring Phabeni through. 💐💐💐🙏🙏🙏 I am not one of those people BTW who can be eloquent whilst upset.
I started watching your channel shortly after Khanyisa arrived. Watching her overcome the odds has been beyond description. She’s a beautiful young lady with the spirit of a warrior. Phabeni was such a beautiful little fellow. Loved his feisty spirit and his accomplishments. And heart broken with every setback. His loss is hard to take for me and many other viewers, yet I can’t begin to understand what his loss is to you, the carers, and more over, the herd. With all that, I’m glad the herd has you all and that you all have herd and that we had the chance to meet Phabeni while he was with us all. Thank you
great love brings great pain
thinking of you all 😭
Thank you Adine for your beautiful letter as a souvenir of little Phabeni. Your love and despair show through your words, but your hope too. Your baby Khanyisa is still with you, beautifully grown up thanks to your care. May you find comfort and relief in the herd, in the friendship of your carers. May Phabeni’s soul accompany you and guide you throughout your life. He was an amazing little fighter ! His loss affected so many people around the world, so I can’t imagine your sorrow. You did your utmost for the little bull, and he did his best to survive in your arms. He loved you until his last breath and offered you his soul. What a gift from him ! You were so lucky to know him. He was your baby, Phabeni is your baby forever. You may be proud Adine.
Rest easy sweet angel. 💕🐘💕
Your support means the world to us. Thank you for keeping our team in your thoughts.
I can’t imagine the pain all of you must be going through, because my heart is broken. I cried so much, not just because Phabeni has left us, but also because the other elephants must be feeling so sad and confused. I want to thank you, all of you, who took such good care of him over the last year; Adine, the carers, Lammie and Spotty, and everyone who touched our hearts. I hope that you will all heal and help the herd heal. I know that they must be grieving too. I wonder how they are grieving. Do they know that he is gone? Phabeni, little boy, so sweet and headstrong, we will never forget you. We all grieve, we all hurt, we all love you and we will always have and keep you in our hearts. Fly high with your mama.
Your kindness is deeply appreciated.
Lundi investigated the smells on the ground closest to the orphanage. Phabeni’s adoptive mother, Setombe joined in the front to trace the scents and detect signs of her baby. Among the elephants here were: Tokwe, Lundi, Kumbura, Fishan, Jabulani, Setombe, Bubi, Zindoga and Klaserie.
During Phabeni’s last night, and in the morning, during his passing, the herd stood outside the orphanage gate. They gathered there. After a while, they turned around and went to the stand under the homestead roof, waiting for the carers.
The day after Phabeni passed away, the females were in the bush and turned back, and came to the gate. We are not sure if they were looking for Phabeni, but it appeared as though they were coming to pay their respects, as you would at a funeral.
A beautiful letter from a beautiful lady and career’s, he will be in our hearts forever
Dearest Herd family,
Greetings from Melbourne, Australia!
God loves Phabeni first…. he is in the good hands of the Author of life. Thank you for all the love you shared since day one. Be courageous.
Your love, and devotion, and dedication is unbelievable!
Thank you for sharing this!
Oh Adine! You are the strongest woman I’ve ever met! When I first stumbled upon your channel, I was so delighted to see you and your HERD. I’ve loved & been drawn to elephants since I was old enough to know what they are. Over time, watching you and the carers taking such wonderful care of them is absolutely incredible. I’ve grown attached to each and every member of the herd and I love each and every one of you who so tenderly love & care for all of them. There’s a saying I heard long ago “What doesn’t destroy you you makes you stronger.” I think this applies to everyone of you. I w a m devoted to helping you as much as I possibly can. I don’t have much money, but I have a loving & devoted heart for you & the HERD. I am praying for you and I know that in your position there’s not much time for grieving because the others need you. Thank you so very very much for sharing your letter with us. May God keep all of you…hunan and elephants alike…. in the palm of His Almighty hand!
Blessings always,
Betty Feliciano. ❤️🙏✝️
Thank you for your kind words and for keeping the herd and our team in your thoughts.
Beautifully said, and thank you for sharing your deep experience, grief, & love. You all love these beautiful creatures without limit – that’s all we can do with our loved ones, supporting each other (all living creatures) through suffering, illness & death, through which God amazingly brings greater love.
I believe my first knowledge of elephants was as a very young child when we made the trip to Denver to see the circus. I was terrified by the clowns, and awed by the elephants. I never went to see performing animals again. Ever.
40+ years later I watched my first video of elephants being rescued.
They were former circus & zoo animals.
I have grown emotionally attached to every elephant and every carer since. And not only elephants. All animals.
I joined a pitbull rescue until I couldn’t handle the trauma.
I think Khanyisa exposed the world to the brutality, the reality of the ivory trade, and more than any other orphan, gave a connection as a sentient, highly evolved, intelligent and communicative being.
Phabeni has taught us how terribly fragile these babies really are.
My heart goes out to each & every person who works so hard to save every animal everywhere.
Blessed be
Thank you for your message. The world can be an inhumane place, but it is up to us to make positive change, no matter how small.
Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
The life of Phabeni was the first time I’d followed each day an elephant calf. I started at the time he came to you. He truly had special joy and his loss is difficult but much more so for you. His joy and your love (for Phabeni and the others) makes the world a better place.
We are so grateful for your heartfelt message. Phabeni’s legacy will continue to inspire us.
Hierdie brief het my in trane
Phabeni het ons almal se harte aangeraak en hy sal altyd in my en HERD se harte bly voortleef
Rus sag little one
Thank you for your kind message. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
I have followed the Herd Channel from when Baby Phabeni was transported in the van back to your orphanage. That was it, love at first sight, my husband and I have dropped everything to watch each and every video, loved watching him run to the herd and trying to swing and control his little trunk. Watching him with his blankets to keep warm and being so loving to all of you, Adine, and all of the carers. You all offered him so much love and tender care, what dedication you all offered Phabeni and all of your herd. I offer you peace and my sincere condolences, but know you do have others relying on all of you to continue their care and comfort. We have learned so much from you and this channel, and you are all amazing humans. God bless all of you now and always!
Your message means a great deal to us. The loss of our little Phabeni has left a profound void in our hearts, and it will take time for the HERD community to recover. Thank you both for the love and for standing with us during this difficult time.
Dear Adine, It truly does not feel real that Phabeni is gone from us. My little dog, Kody, and I watch your videos daily. He listens and watches attentively. Each of their lives is a precious gift! Phabeni was such a ray of light. We love you all and continue to hope for more saved elephant lives. We learn so much from them, especially about love and family. Sending prayers for you all from Virginia!
Thank you for your kindness and support. Some days, it does not feel real to us either. The impact he had on HERD and our community will live on forever.
What a wonderful epitaph for little Phabeni, Adine. He was such a joy to watch especially his joy at meeting up with the herd outside in the mornings and his interaction with Lammie and funny Spotty. Thankyou to all of you at HERD from me in Sri Lanka for giving Phabeni the love and care during his short life. May he rest in peace
Thank you for your kind message. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
My heart is still crying…Poor daring brave Phabeni. RIP beloved one.
Dear Adine, I can barely imagine what you, the carers and the heard are going through regarding Phabeni’s death. I know my heart aches so much and I am so incredibly sad. And I am from the outside. It must be a million times worst for you. Phabeni gave me so much joy in tough moments the last months. In the beginning when he came to you I didn’t want to allow myself to like him too much because I knew about the high risk if his death. But it was useless to try. I quickly came to love this cheeky and joyful little bull. When your post came last week I didn’t want to believe it. I couldn’t get myself to watch the full video of his last moments. Please know you and the whole team did everything you could for him. He was lucky to have a second chance in life. And not to be alone while dying. I feel with all of you. And I am so sorry for Setombe. She looks so sad in the latest post about her. Thank you for all your work and the bravery to take the pain that comes with it! Love & light for you and the whole team ❤️
Thank you for your heartfelt message. The loss of Phabeni has been deeply painful for all of us and the elephant herd. Phabeni’s feisty spirit will always be part of the HERD family.
I read every word of what you wrote. I identify with your expressions. My personal experience handling animals taught me that there has to be a fierce heart within me to show up whenever tragedy strikes. My first departure broke me so hard into millions of little pieces that when I finished putting myself together, the same as you, I came out stronger and with more knowledge to help others as they came along. Phabeni, I loved him from afar. I dreamed of him turning into a gigantic Jabulani. His jungle fierceness showed and I prayed. But God works in mysterious ways. May love be our guiding force. Send you my love, to you and all the admirable elephant whisperers fervently along your side. As Charles Chaplin wrote in part for his song Smile: Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you’ll just
Smile: //www.charliechaplin.com/en/articles/42-Smile-Lyrics
We truly appreciate your kind words, Ana. Phabeni’s spirit will always be part of the HERD family.
In thinking of words of comfort in this sudden shock.heart broken news that was flashed across the world few days ago of our little bull Phabeni.Our mouths dropped open minds went blank.The words and emotion offered by Kat-kess i guess hits it home. which i totally agree and probably each one of in the human herd family…Dame Sheldrick who was in the conservation business of African wild life for a long time, and whom your parents Adine probably conferred with many times showed us each animal is special helping them grow and love. the lost stays with you forever….The Jabulani crew still needs you physically and emotionally as they are confused and hurt of the lost of their little brother Phaibeni lets step up and continue the journey.This si the best i can do or say right now.ohio united states.
Dead Adine,
I was a Hospice nurse for many years. It was important for me to refuel at times.
I have been,thinking of you and all the Carers, your letter was so heart felt and I appreciate your taking us through your experience with little Phabeni It makes so much sense that you would be
left with this surplus of energy, the energy you were spending on caring for the little guy.
This loss has to have hit you hard, I just wanted to remind you to put the “oxygen mask” on yourself first. Repair, renew your spirit in whatever feels right for you, it could be as simple as sleeping or spending time in nature, just make,sure you take this time caring for YOU, as unnatural as it may feel, it is (as I am sure you already know) vital with the kind of work you do, especially when you experience such a loss. Try also not to think of what you could have done differently, you provided Phabeni with an abundance of love from all areas of Herd, sometimes the body is to fragile to hold on, and in exhaustion, it let’s go. Phabeni was surrounded by support, there was NOTHING you could have done differently, since you provided the most essential piece, and that again was love, Phabeni had it in spades.
So take as much time as you need, breath in that oxygen so at some point you can come back to the important work you do.
Thank you for being an example of the best of humanity, there is plenty of darkness everywhere in this world of ours, and you make such an important difference.
I’ll be making a small donation in honour of Phabeni, and so you all can continue to work on behalf of such an incredible species, the elephant, and all the others like Lamby too!
Best of wishes to you all,
Elizabeth Gibbs.
Your message means a great deal to us, Elizabeth. The loss of our little Phabeni has left a profound void in our hearts, and it will take time for the HERD community to recover. Our team takes it day by day, and we each found ways to mourn and find the best “oxygen mask” to help us. Thank you for for the love and for standing with us during this difficult time.
My heart hurts at the loss of that amazing little bull elephant. Memories come up of him trunk whapping at the world…putting his head down and boogying with Lammie and Spotty down the trail…climbing all over Adine like an adorable mischief maker…He is and will be terribly missed but I pray for the Herd and all the other babies that come along and need your faithful love and support. May Blessings and Mercy come to all God’s beings.
Thank you for your heartfelt message. The loss of Phabeni has been deeply painful for our team, Lammie, Spotty and elephant herd. We will always cherish the memories and the time we had with him.
Dear HERD Trust, I am so sorry for your loss.
I followed Phabeni’s story and came to fall in love with that little fighter spirit he had inside of him, he reminded me of never giving up when faced with adversity. Baby Phabeni will always be in our hearts.
RIP Sweet Phabeni 🙁
Thank you for your message. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Thankyou Adine and all the wonderful carers..Even though I only watch on YT, I feel very connected to the herd and calves, like a lot of us..Phabeni’s journey was way too short, but no less memorable..His loss was shocking to me, not expected..I can only imagine how you all must feel after caring for him everyday..Keep up the great work. 💐
Thank you for your message. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
My heart broke for you who loved, cared for and lost a soul so precious. I have learned through watching your videos the depth of love and how the ellies returned that love in equal measure. The Souls of these magnificent creatures are among the most beautiful of God’s creation. Thank you for what you do and are.
We are so grateful for your heartfelt message. Phabeni’s strength will continue to inspire us.
Thank you for your wonderful and open words. Life is not always easy, but you should definitely enjoy the small, beautiful moments. Thank you for opening your heart to us.
Your kindness is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your support.
My love and prayers to you Adine and to all the caretakers and those who pour their hearts and souls into looking after the beautiful elephants. To Phabeni…fly high and rest peacefully little one. In death, you brought so many souls together in love. That is true love.
Thank you for your kind words. The impact he had on HERD and our community will live on forever.
What a beautiful letter and how devastated all of you who care for these majestic beauties must be. Where there is love there is hope and you all clearly love your adopted orphans. Keep up the good work💕🙏
Thank you for your message. Phabeni will always hold a special place in our hearts.
For Phabeni’s fans it has been a hard loss, but for you who touched him, and cared for him, and spent your days or nights beside him, it must be devastating, especially so soon after losing Kenneth. Give yourselves time to grieve. That can’t be hurried. I think that because of God’s love for us, he sends the animals we loved and who loved us to join us in heaven. So think of Kenneth and Phabeni together there and perhaps that will give you some comfort.
Your message means a great deal to us. The loss of baby Phabeni and carer Kenneth has left a profound void in our hearts, and it will take time for the HERD community to recover. Thank you for the love and for standing with us during this difficult time.
I was thinking who is going to take care of all the babies in heaven. Milk bottles, hugs and rubs, kisses. Then it dawned on me. Kenneth! And of course Nungu the sheep. What a herd up there and Kenneth is in his element. Laughing and keeping all the babies laughing with him.
Hola Adine , me sentí
Muy triste por la pérdida de Phabeni , me di cuenta días después de su partida, yo veo sus videos desde hace tiempo, pronta resignación para ti, y todo el personal que cuida a los elefantes. Los saludo desde Los Ángeles Ca.
Thank you for your support. The impact he had on HERD and our community will live on forever.
I hope the pain gets better but I also know it’s hard to fight for someone and then still lose them. I think of all of you everyday and know the love of Phabeni goes on in your work.
Your kindness is deeply appreciated. We miss little Phabeni every day, but his memory lives on.
I miss him so much😪😪 every morning after I said my prayer I always turned YouTube on to see if there was any new videos of Phabeni and herd. It is still hard to believe he is gone but at least he is up in heaven with a new body and no longer in pain. He and the others that have gone before him will be waiting at the other side of the rainbow bridge for you all. Thank you for EVERYTHING that you do for the elephants🤎🤎 God bless you all.
I was waiting for the right words but words will not be enough. I watched Phabeni from afar right from the beginning. I smiled at his feistiness and repeatedly watched his giant branch video. When things looked grim and you all fought for him I wrote a little song I sang over and over hoping the universe would hear my wish for a day when Phabeni would be the thriving dominant bull many years from now. I cannot imagine the loss for you all when my own sadness is overwhelming and I never met him. The only way to stop from crying at the thought of him is knowing that his rescue meant he didn’t die alone. He died embraced by pure love. Thank you for dedicating your lives to conservation and please hold onto each other as you support the herd in their loss. Much love to you all.
I just heard the news on Phabeni!!! I am so very sorry for your lost!!! It breaks my heart to know that Phabeni, sweet Phabeni, isn’t there anymore!
With kind regards,
Marianne Peuling
Dearest Adine, You are a truly rare human on this planet, and I commend you for all that you are and all you do for Are these amazing animals. I’m crying 😢 – what an emotional raw and honest letter. But I do see light and hope and peace and love like The comment left on YouTube. I will continue to support your organization as best I can. I don’t have a lot of financial fun since I have a severe chronic illness and retired. But I tell everyone I know, and I share your YouTube videos on my social to bring awareness to your wonderful organization your dedication, hard work and most of all the unconditional love.
Thank you for all your best wishes from Frankfurt Germany
I know this comment is coming long after the loss of Phabeni. I watched Adine’s emotional video the other day and all the sorrow over the loss of Phabeni came back to me. I’ve never indulged in watching youtube videos. But I got so caught up in his story. I so looked forward to seeing a new video about him each morning. I’m so sorry Adine, if some viewers questioned if you did everything possible for Phabeni. It is very evident to me that you put EVERYTHING into trying to save that baby. Bless you for all you do. I’ll keep watching. I love what you do for the ellies and the babies.
Thank you for your heartfelt message. The loss of Phabeni has been deeply painful for all of us and the elephant herd. We will always cherish the memories and the time we had with him.
With this beautiful letter, thank you for opening your heart and sharing all the love and pain you have been experiencing. Those of us that loved Phabeni from a distance could only imagine what you and your team went through. I love elephants and have laughed and cried through each shared experience. Thank you for loving and taking care of this wonderful herd and continuing to adopt the sweet babies to give them a chance. 🙏🏻
Adine, your tears and the sharing of your grief over Phabeni was a gift to me….an enabling of my own grief not easily expressed…thank you for that. I missed you while you were away for was it two? weeks, but knew why you were absent…having gone through two major losses all at once. It was not the same without you. Maggie
I shall always remember dear little Phabeni. He brought me much joy and I shall keep him in my heart.