Like any elephant advocate, my computer always has tabs open to some of the many stories of elephants in need of rescue, pleas for sanctuary and the hopes of a elephants in circuses and zoo becoming part of the past.

This week pictures of an emaciated, elderly elephant came to my attention from a dear friend.  Lek Chailert, posted these which left me in tears and heartbroken.

Tikiri, a 70 year old female, wasting away to skin and bones.  Her frail, ailing body, hidden from spectators during a holy celebration in Sri Lanka.  No one would question the health of such a creature who was bringing good fortune in the midst of this long standing holy event.

Fortunately, for Tikiri, they were wrong.

The shocking images and story of her health have spread through the social media like a rapid fire and there is no stopping the power of determination to rescue this dear girl.

The news coverage has brought attention to the urgency of care for Tikiri and she has been removed from the parade and returned home for rest and care.

While this news is huge justice, for how long though will this attention protect her?  Sri Lanka desperately needs a sanctuary for elephants just like Tikiri to live the rest of their days away from work, lights and fireworks.  A chance to live the way they were intended to, as elephants.