In Loving Memory of Lucky, a Beautiful and Inspiring Soul
-
by
scott
With deep sadness, we share the passing of our beloved Lucky, a gentle and inspiring elephant whose life touched the hearts of everyone who met her.
On the afternoon of 4 March 2026, during her regular visit to the river, Lucky suddenly collapsed. Her elephant family surrounded her in urgent concern, their calls filled with distress, and Lek rushed to her side.
Our dedicated veterinary team responded immediately and administered emergency treatment, helping to alleviate her distress while doing everything possible to help her recover. They quickly set up equipment to ensure her safety, using a crane to gently support her and surrounding her with soft piles of sand to cushion her if she fell. Despite briefly regaining consciousness and attempting to stand on two occasions, Lucky struggled to maintain her balance and collapsed each time.
For several years, Lucky had experienced neurological difficulties, including occasional stiffness and seizures. A few months ago, she had a similar episode when she fell in her shelter and injured the tip of her trunk. During that difficult time, her dear companions Thong Ae and Jenny stayed beside her constantly, watching over her with the deep devotion elephants share.
Earlier that same day, Lucky had seemed cheerful and content, enjoying her food and walking comfortably. None of us could have imagined that the afternoon would bring such a heartbreaking goodbye.
Lucky was born in 1985 and spent the early years of her life in a traveling circus. Forced to perform under bright lights and loud music from a young age, her life was filled with hardship. When she developed a severe eye infection as a young elephant, she was still made to continue working until she eventually lost her sight completely. Even after becoming blind, Lucky continued to be used for rides and photographs, before being left chained in a backyard when she could no longer perform.
The Rescue of Lucky
Lucky’s life changed forever in February 2013 when she was rescued and brought to her new home. At the sanctuary, she discovered kindness, safety, and the freedom to simply be an elephant.
She adjusted quickly, joining Mae Bua Loy and Mae Boon Ma shortly after her arrival, and later befriending Grandma Baan Yen. Their friendships played a crucial role in her recovery. Over the following years, Lucky was deeply affected by the passing of her friends at different times. For a while, she remained solitary, mourning the loss of her companions.
Despite her grief, Lucky formed new friendships with Jenny, Thong Ae, and Faa Mai. Though she could not see, she moved through the park with remarkable confidence, guided by familiar sounds, scents, and the reassuring presence of her herd. Lucky especially loved spending time in the river, where she could splash, play, and enjoy the company of her younger friends.
Lucky’s life reminds us of the incredible resilience of elephants and the healing power of love and compassion. Though we are heartbroken to lose her, we are grateful for the years she spent surrounded by care, friendship, and freedom. Sweet Lucky, you will always live on in our hearts. Your gentle spirit will never be forgotten.
