What’s in a name? Ellie was such an original. She was funny, curious, and generous. I met Ellie while I worked at the Safari Park. She was a big fan of the amazing ambassadors and visited us regularly. Ellie always carried a bizarre photo of a pig wearing a suit in her pocket. When she met you, she would pull it out and say, “Would you like to see a photo of my ex-husband?” Although I loved her sense of humor, I loved her generous spirit even more. The first time I noticed bandages on her hands and arms, she confessed they were covering scratches from a feral cat she had rescued. She named the cat “Jodie,” and Ellie always referred to her as her “roommate.” Although Jodie never became “affectionate” with Ellie, she did become calm and would often be near her. Ellie was devoted to Jodie having a “forever-home” and treated her with such respect. She even wrote Jodie into her will (which I wish everyone would do for their pets). Jodie did pass away before Ellie. When Ellie passed away, she left financial gifts to her favorite animal charities and a few friends. I thought the best thing I could do with my gift would be to honor Ellie by helping others – animals and people. That’s what my relationship with Ellie was all about. And that’s the spirit of Ellie’s Animal Angels.