And, even if Grandma Somboon’s story begins tragically and viciously, let us choose to focus on the positive today.

After being removed from her natural habitat as a newborn calf, this elephant worked diligently in the tourism and logging sectors for over 80 years.

Like many other elephants, she spent years performing in shows, begging on the streets, and giving rides after losing her children.

She labored on her feet all day, carrying visitors, and worked long hours when she could have been enjoying her independence. It’s disputed who is to blame for this craziness, but it’s vital to recognize that tourist demand fuels the terrible cycle of cruelty.

In any event, when the Save Elephant Foundation in Thailand learned about Somboon’s situation, they recognized they needed to take all possible measures to save her.

“We’re on a rescue mission to protect Somboon and transport her to her final true home,” the rescue said on Facebook in January, adding, “It’s time for Grandma to be well cared for and allowed to rest.”

In January, the organization successfully rescued an 87-year-old mistreated elephant.

She had spent her entire life working continuously, but now she would be able to relax and be free. Somboon was in poor health when she arrived at the Elephant Nature Park shelter. The elephant had hazy eyes, was emaciated, was missing a tooth, and was very dehydrated. The fact that she was now safe was more important than the fact that her skin didn’t look good.

According to the rescue, many new elephants take weeks to settle in after arriving since they are still paranoid and distrustful.

However, Grandma Somboon deviated from the norm. She promptly found the sand mound that had been made for her, napping quietly despite the bustling activity all around her, fatigued from her journey and a lifetime of misery.

Somboon’s need to lie down and relax was unsurprising given that she had spent her whole life standing. Especially if they are ancient and have weak ankles, elephants cannot sleep on a concrete floor with their feet attached to a short chain.

When Somboon arrived at the sanctuary, she fell asleep fast and deeply, making it practically impossible for her caregivers to rouse her.

Somboon struggled to get back on her feet after her lengthy snooze. But she made it in the end! Somboon has adjusted to her new circumstances better than the rescue team expected, which is natural. Every rescued elephant receives comprehensive care, including soft sand beds, food, and water.

Somboon continues to require care and attention for most of the day, but she improves with each passing day. She must be relieved to be free of her difficult task and treated with the dignity she deserves.

Somboon’s tale serves as a reminder of the fortitude and spirit of these incredible animals as she continues to recover at the Elephant Nature Park sanctuary.

Somboon has found comfort and care in her new surroundings, where she may finally enjoy the freedom and peace she deserves, despite her previous trials.

More information about the Save Elephant Foundation and its work to protect endangered elephants can be found here.