There is nothing more touching and precious than reunions. A lot of emotions burst out at that moment. You may cry but cry out of happiness. If you are looking for something that is pure and healing, the video below will melt your heart. A 59-year-old dying chimpanzee is delighted to her old human friend one last time. Her last wish is fulfilled.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
Mama is the name of the old chimpanzee. She was at the very last days of her life. The senior animal was unresponsive, keeping curling up in a ball in her enclosure. She even refused to eat. This scene broke the hearts of the staff at the Royal Burgers Zoo in Arnhem, the Netherlands. They reached out to Jan van Hooff, Mama’s old carer with whom she built a special bond.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
And, the miracle happened. When Mama heard the voice of her old friend, she woke up. The chimp appeared to smile. She couldn’t wait to touch her human friend’s face, hold the back of his neck, and bring his head down to hers. This moment touched the deepest parts of millions worldwide.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
You can watch the emotional video below!
Mama’s old human friend came to visit her. This was probably the biggest surprise she received before leaving this world. And the old chimp died just a week later, in peace.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
“She had an exceptionally strong and dominant personality so that no man who wanted to come to power could do so around her. She also brought consolation when there were tensions and mediated conflicts. She will be sorely missed, also by me, because I have rarely seen such an admirable character in both humans and apes.” said Frans de Waal, a behavioral scientist who worked with Mama.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
Jan van Hooff is an emeritus professor of behavioral biology at Utrecht University and co-founder of the Burgers colony. He first met the chimpanzee in 1972 and took care of her for a period of time. A beautiful friendship blossomed between the two.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
When Mr. van Hooff heard the situation of Mama, he didn’t hesitate to visit his old furry friend. At first, the chimpanzee didn’t react as he stepped into her enclosure. When she heard his voice, everything changed. Mr. van Hooff and the zoo’s staff could see the very first smile on Mama’s face. The senior animal was so happy to meet her human friend again.
Screenshot: Jan A R A M van Hooff
H/T: Independent