Honoring Ned
October 10, 1987 ~ May 15, 2009 Read Ned's Story Ned's Wish List Add Your Tribute to Ned... *Note: This is not a blog. This is a place for tributes to Ned. Thank you. Your message will be reviewed before it is posted. Tribute: Name: Location:   2923 messages and tributes for Ned! August 29, 2010 Ned, You were absolutely beautiful!! I must ask the humans who'll read this to stop and think, who are the real "animals" in regards to performing elephants? Now go ask someone (who wouldn't come to this site and see this tribute on their own) to really think about this issue. When enough people pay attention, atrocities can be stopped. Do it for Ned. Dee, pa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 29, 2010 At least you were able to live your last years happy and well taken care of. To Elephant heaven for eternity. Love and see you on the other side. Susie, Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 23, 2010 Ned, You are absolutely amazing and a hero you are so truly deeply loved and i am so happy these wonderful people at the sanctuary found you and welcomed you with opened arms. You are now at the rainbow bridge to forever fun free, never have to perform for anyone again, never have to feel any pain...just happiness and you have all the treats and friends you could ever ask for. I know you are happy and that's all that matters. You will never be forgotten. Rest in Piece handsome. Lacie, Alabama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 21, 2010 Ned, what a handsome Elephant you were and my heart sings that you were able to make it to Tennessee. God Bless You for enduring the hardships that you did and I hope the people responsible for your suffering will somehow find themselves in a similar situation and can understand how you must have felt. we reap what we sow). People can learn so much from Elephants, I cannot comprehend any human being wanting to harm such a majestic and precious animal such as Ned or any other elephants. Again, God Bless You Ned. Joy L. Dixon, Bonita Springs, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 21, 2010 you are so so so sweet i love you and miss you. asia, huntingdon tennessee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 18, 2010 Hi Ned, Missing you always. take care and have fun in heaven. :) Shalini, Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 17, 2010 As soon as I saw this elephant, I immediately fell in love. Such a sad story, he's in a better place now were he roams free in great health, with the other elephants that have passed. may you rest in peace Ned. Jordan Weyman, Ottawa, Ontario, canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 13, 2010 Precious Ned, They have finished the second bull elephant barn at PAWS, named "Ned's Barn" in your honor. If only you could have gotten stronger and made it there. But your life and early death will be meaningful in the efforts to save other captive bulls. RIP. Lee, Anchorage Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 13, 2010 Perhaps your loving friends at the sanctuary have heard of the chimp, Lucy, who also had to trust human beings. Forgive us. Willi Wisconsin , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 7, 2010 It breaks my heart to see how young you were. Most there were born so much earlier than you and lived much of their life when you were born. I pray your life was great when you got to the sanctuary. I know the end of your life was great, which make this heavy heart not so sad. Amy R. , Dickson, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 7, 2010 I am so sorry on behalf of humankind for the way you were treated. You looked so broken when you arrived at the sanctuary. I hope in your last few months you experienced friendship, comfort, and love. I hope you are at peace now. Astarte Astarte, UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 30, 2010 bless your pure heart and pure soul...I am so thankful you got to spend your last days in the Elephant Sanctuary.....and I hope whomever mistreated you will be severely punished.....You are sooooooo beautifully sweet....sleep long and well with the Angels..... Sylvia Edwards, Franklin NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 26, 2010 Dear Ned, I am sad to hear you lived only a year at the sanctuary, but am glad you spent in a wonderful place. Your arrival made me cry about how thin you were but I know you regained strength and made friends at the sanctuary. Have a good time in Elephant Heaven and eat all the hay you can. I will miss you. Katie, Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 16, 2010 Precious Ned, Missing you so much. Love you. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 14, 2010 Dearest Ned I saw you arrive and my heart wept for you Beautiful proud dear Elephant that you are Your eyes and sweet face shall always be in heart I am so thankful that you got know the love and kindness that some humans have for you and that you got to scratch your back on the trees and feel the grass under your feet I love you precious Ned sarah West, Victoria BC Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 12, 2010 dear,ned we never got to known you but you look,like a very neat elephant shawn,and jane atchley , waynesboro tn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 12, 2010 I love you Ned! Denise, Columbia, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 23, 2010 why do people do this to such beautiful animals it hurts my heart jw, nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 22, 2010 Forever in my heart Sweet Neddie. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 22, 2010 You were a noble and mighty male. We were honored to have you walk among us. I am pleased that you had a happy ending to your life. May your spirit guide many. Kate Monteleone, Chelan, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 18, 2010 Take care of Babe, Neddie, as Bunny took care of you. My love always, Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 12, 2010 Dear sweet Ned, I know the pain and suffering you went through. I thank God you spent the last months of your life at the most wonderful, caring place for elephants on this earth. I will still say my prayers for you as I did when you were alive. You were a gift to all who met you and to those, like myself, met you via on-line. I wanted to come to the Sanctuary to meet you and I'm sorry I never got well enough to do so. Love, Tricia Tricia Farrell, Naperville, Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 9, 2010 Goodbye Ned. It's so sad that you left us so soon after we began to know you. I'll Always think of you! RIP S, US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 7, 2010 Beautiful Ned, I am heartbroken and saddened to hear about your tragedy, but I am glad that you were in what seems like a very peaceful place in your final days. I'm so sorry for all that you endured. Much love. JA, Copenhagen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 4, 2010 I hope your final days on this planet were peaceful.God bless you Ned.I will do my best to make sure nothing happens to elephants that happened to you See ya..... Bill William Pucci, lake bluff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2010 I feel so sad for Ned and other Elephants like Ned because he had such a short life on earth and that is not fair. Elephants should live to their full life expectancy. Ever since I was a little girl that saw Elephants at a Circus I knew that was wrong for the Elephant and never supported a Circus and refused to go when adults wanted to take me. So in memory of Ned I will forever fight against any Circus that uses and abuses the Elephants for human pleasure and entertainment. Claudia Elliott, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2010 ned was a loveing elephant. he was my favorite. megan, missouri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2010 Ned, you are not with us anymore, but your legacy lives on. It is unfortunate, people did not love you and respect you as they should have, they will have their reward. Thank you Ned for giving us the honor of knowing you, if only by internet. Alicia Alicia, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2010 Sweet Ned, You have lived a hard life. I am so sad that you are gone, but I am also relieved. I am relieved because you do not have to suffer anymore and you were able to leave in such a special place surrounded by friends. God bless you Ned and I love you; we all love you. Sarah, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2010 I really miss you, Ned. Katie, Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2010 Gone too soon. I love you. PJ , Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2010 Ned, The arrival video of you brings tears to my eyes. You were so weak. It is rewarding to see that the short time you lived at the Sanctuary, it helped make you stronger, happier, and more playful. My five year old daughter, Elise, and I wish you the best in heaven. We are thankful to the Sanctuary for taking care of God's most beautiful land animals. God bless to the care givers and the donors!!!! RIP sweet Ned! Robbie Bingham and Elise Brown, Hendersonville, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2010 Dear Ned, Every morning when I drink my coffee, I look at your picture on the mug and think of you. I still can't look at your arrival video without crying. You will never be forgotten-you even have a barn named after you at PAWS,if only you could have made it there. RIP, dear boy. Lee, Anchorage Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2010 Dear Sweet Boy, I read the comments about how you liked to toss food at the caregivers. It brought tears to my eyes to hear of your playfulness. What a little rascal you were. I wish I could have seen you doing that. I would have loved to laugh at you having such fun. It makes my heart lighter to know you were having some well deserved fun and actually knowing you were doing it. Even a year later it still tears me up to know of all your suffering and how short your life was. Rest in peace dear sweet Neddie. My love for you ever grows stronger even after a year. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 17, 2010 I AM SORRY FOR WHAT SO CALLED "HUMAN BEINGS" HAVE DONE TO YOU IN THE PAST. YOU TIME AT THE SANCTUARY WAS TOO SHORT BUT HAPPY. YOU ARE IN YOUR SANCTUARY IN THE SKY NOW BUT I.M SURE YOUR SPIRIT STILL REMAINS AT THE SANCTUARY AND YOU ARE THERE COMFORTING OTHERS D. SULLIVAN, UNITED KINGDOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 17, 2010 Ned gone but never forgotten d, tenn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 16, 2010 Hi Nedster Hope you are enjoying your life in Heaven buddy. Really miss you so much. Already a year since you left us-much too soon. Keep smiling down on us. Always remembered and never forgotten. I love you! Avni, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 16, 2010 Ned A year Longer than the time we had to know you Shorter than the time endured in endless pain Six short months of Sanctuary Twelve long months of missing you An eternity of love. Judy K, Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 My sweet, precious Ned, I miss you so much. I can't believe you have been gone for one year already. Too many injustices in this world and what you had to endure on earth is heartbreaking. I love you and will never forget you. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 RIP Sweet Ned. May you frolic forever in green pastures. Tracy Jablonski, MIchigan City, Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 Dear Nedley, It was a year ago today we learned with great sadness of your passing. I am so glad that you got to live out your final days at the Sanctuary where you could be free to act as an Elephant. You are very much missed. Rest big boy. Michelle, Colorado Springs, CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 Ned, I still shed tears when I think of you before you were able to come to The Elephant Sanctuary. I think, goodness I wish you could have been healthy enough to live a lot longer. Your name, Ned means I fight even harder to free elephants that are trapped in the circus life. Ned, I fight for you! Miss you big boy! Juanita, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 Dear Ned, Sweet Ele-boy, a year ago today, you quietly slipped away in the pre-dawn hours of a Tennessee morning. For twenty one years, seven months and five days, You bejeweled this world with your magnificent presence. And now, this same world is impoverished by your absence. You truly were Amazing Grace. It is hard to express the deep, ever-present pain of missing You, but maybe these verses say it best: "My life closed twice before its close - It yet remains to see If Immortality unveil A third event to me So huge, so hopeless to conceive As these that twice befell. Parting is all we know of heaven, And all we need of hell." This poem was written by Emily Dickinson who died on a same date as you, on May 15th, only more than a century before, in 1886. Forever buried in my heart, Rest In Peace, Sweet Love, Darling Ned Always Beloved Elephant. B.,, New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 I still remember you, Ned. RIP. Catherine, Charlotte, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 Sir Ned, I "Greatly" admire you... You're courage & humor... Such a "Big Silly", with that hay on you're head !! I love ya, Mr. Polite Elephant... See ya in Heaven some day & we'll put hay on our heads... T.J. Burns., Colorado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 15, 2010 NED....THINKING OF YOU TODAY....I LOVE YOU....PRECIOUS ELEPHANT BOY Rhonda, Pueblo,Colorado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14, 2010 It's just about a year now, Ned. I think of you every day and bless your dear soul with love. Maureen, Ann Arbor, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14, 2010 Dear Sweet Ned, it is almost a year since you left us. You are always in my heart. I love you, Ned. Namaste, my dear Elephant Man. Love, Liz Liz, N., Oshkosh, WI 54901 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14, 2010 ned your life on earth a gift misused years of neglect, years of abuse at the end of your life you finally knew care friends at your side, food always there you will not be forgotten, as i sit here and cry asking why some humans are so rotten and you had to die? but peace and comfort you found a place in heaven, too fast but in our hearts you are with us forever, steadfast karen lyons kalmenson, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14, 2010 My sweet Neddie: Tomorrow, May 15, is our day, sweetheart--my birthday and the day, one year ago, that you left us to join Bunny on your journey to heaven. I still remember my tears when I read you had gone. You tried so hard to live. I look at your beautiful, sad face each day, and ask why did humans fail you? Only at the end did you know kindness, peace, and love in Tennessee. I miss you, my beautiful boy. But I know that nothing that is loved is ever lost. No creature who has touched a life, who has brought beauty to the world is ever truly gone. My life was blessed by your presence. You are always in my thoughts and forever in my heart. I love you, Neddie. Happy first anniversary in heaven. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 13, 2010 My Nedley, it has been almost a year since you left us behind and soared to your forever sanctuary. Your loveliness and sweet face are forever with us as we remember, honor and just plain miss you!! We were so lucky to know you, even briefly. See how many still long for your gorgeous self to glide by and bless us with your precious light. Always, big boy. Auntie Deb, Sacramento . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 6, 2010 hi ned i will miss you liz, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 6, 2010 Hey Ted, I'm Katie! I'm in the 8th grade & I'm righting a research paper on how you & other elephant's got abused & some are still getting abused. :) rest in peace. Katie Haney, Tenneessee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 3, 2010 Oh Ned you handsome boy, nearly one year later, I still think of you. You are the most beautiful elephant I have ever seen, and I take some small comfort knowing that now, you don't hurt anymore, and you can be free with your elephant friends. Melissa, NH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 3, 2010 Hi Ned, You are always on my mind. Shalini, Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 1, 2010 Dear Ned I feel bad your life was cut short due to some careless human. I am sure you were taking away from you mom at young age. I wish people would learn to live next to their surroundings. Circuses or Zoos do not and should not have any kind of animals locked up. The best it can be is that all animal owners should be kept under the same condition as you were kept. I do feel bad about not able enjoy your life longer. I do hope where you are now you are safe and no one can harm you. Kaczor Richard, Szombathely, Hungary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 1, 2010 Dear Ned, I'm so sad to hear of your passing and once again you made tears run down my face. Thank you for being truly special and so gentle. On behalf of all the good humans out there, I want to say sorry for the way you were used and abused for too many years. I'm relieved you found peace and health in the end. You left us way too soon, but I know it was your time to forever rest in peace. Goodbye Ned. Jamie, Melbourne, Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 30, 2010 To the memory of our Darling Neddie Boy. We loved you so much! We continue to love you. We are richer for having learned about you and thrilled to the daily antics your wonderful caregivers shared with you and with us. You will NEVER be forgotten. Neddie, you had the soul of an angel. You found the best place in the whole world to end your days on this earth. God bless you Neddie, as you roam in the heaven you richly deserve! Claudia and Brodie, Pleasanton, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 30, 2010 I will always remember the joy & happiness I was filled with the day you were rescued. You will always be my poster boy for reasons for not using elephants for human entertainment. God bless and keep you my beautiful Ned. nameste Glenda, OKLahoma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 30, 2010 Bless your sweet heart...so glad you are in "animal heaven" now as your spirit soars freely ....many thanks to the Ele Sanct for their care of you....we are truly blessed when an intelligent feeling thinking animal like you is allowed to live and die in peace and comfort. Shame on those who mistreated and neglected you .... Kharma takes care of them .... sylvia edwards, franklin, nc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 30, 2010 I cannot believe it's been almost a year. A year ago at this time I was checking the website every day for updates on Ned. Everyone at the Sanctuary tried so hard to help him be healthy. I'm always sad when I think of the hard life many of the elephants had before getting to the Sanctuary... which makes me grateful for the Sanctuary and the happy life they all have after arriving there. I'm very sure Ned appreciated everyone's love and support and all the many wonderful people at the Sanctuary that cared for him. June, Bellevue, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 29, 2010 Ned, you touch my heart so deeply. I only wish that mankind could have been good to you for your entire life, instead of the last year. You deserve so much more. Thank you for being the majestic, touching creature that you were. You inspire us all. Cynthia Banks, Sharpsburg GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 23, 2010 My PRECIOUS NED....SWEET ELEPHANT BOY!!! I bought your "MUG" from the "OUR GIRLS GIFTSHOP".....with your precious picture on it.I cherish it. I even hug it in my arms.It is my way of hugging and loving you.I get the great privilege of looking at your picture every day.It gives me comfort and I feel like your part of our family too! You are dearly loved and missed. Rhonda, Pueblo,Colorado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 21, 2010 i just fell in loveeeee with your happy couple of the elephant and the dog!!!!! Brosif sNOOKIe sMoIth, jersey shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 19, 2010 Ned looks like a friendly elephant. It makes me sad to know what happened to him before he went to the Elephant Sanctuary. But it is good he spent the rest of his life in a calm place were he is free to do what he liked. Isabella Rosa, Audubon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 16, 2010 Love you Nedster! Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 11, 2010 Dearest Neddie in Heaven, I miss you and think of you often. You should have had time at the Sanctuary to relax and truly enjoy life. Your suffering has been over for a long time, now but you are sorely missed here on earth Pam, Massachusetts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 5, 2010 I think of you everyday. Your picture on my coffee mug at my desk keeps your memory alive in my heart. I never loved an animal that I've never met more than you Ned. I was looking so forward to meeting you here in California. I hope your barn doesn't stand empty too much longer. I just thought I'd check in to let you know that I still and always will love you. Obviously, I'm not alone. xoxoxo Lizzy, in California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 29, 2010 Hi Ned, you precious soul. I am sorry for the way the first inhumans treated you. I am glad the last days of your short life were happy and peaceful and you knew real love. murr, fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 27, 2010 i'm sorryy ned my family loves you dylan, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 26, 2010 Ned, You have touched our hearts along with many others. You will always touch more and more. You are such a special boy! Ashley, Qcy,Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 26, 2010 Hi Ned! I wish I could have known you. I am very happy that you found a good home at the sanctuary. Your story makes me want to help every animal I can! I love you Ned. Ashley, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 26, 2010 Sweet Neddie: I just heard from someone who is attending the elephant summit at PAWS and guess what! Pat and Ed have said that the barn that PAWS built for you will always be called Neddie's Barn in your memory! It will give another pour soul a haven of safety, peace, and love. How great is that, sweetheart?!! You are always in my heart, my beautiful boy. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 24, 2010 Ned, You have touched our hearts. So glad you made it to the Elephant Sanctuary where you were obviously loved very much. AP, Oklahoma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 23, 2010 Ned, You are missed big boy.Is Heaven as beautiful as you were? NC, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 23, 2010 My sweet Ned' Take care of our loving and giving Carol as you look down upon her tonight.YOU will never forget what a BIG heart she had for you and the "Girls".Stand tall Ned as she does in these trying days. Nana, Pembroke Pines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 22, 2010 I am so grateful to those of you who take care of these great animals. Your efforts are so appreciated, especially by the elephants for which you care. Thank you for being there and having these wonderful video stories of these precious creatures. Ned, you were such a magnificent elephant! I am so glad your last months on earth were at the sanctuary. Til we meet again. Sheryl, New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 21, 2010 Peace is with you my brother. God bless all the elephants and all the animals of this wondrous planet. God bless the Elephant sanctuary and all the people whose hearts are touched to give such care and kindness. I love you anonymous, Louisiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 18, 2010 Big Ned - simply this: I love you Dan, Vancouver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 15, 2010 Sweet precious Ned, Missing you so much today. Love you. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 5, 2010 What a beautiful, sweet elephant. I have fallen in love with Ned and would love to just give him a hug. I got tears in my eyes when I saw him arrive at the sanctuary and step off the truck. I am so glad that he is now being taken care of. I wish I could meet him. susan , chicago, illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 5, 2010 R.I.P forever Ned Aaron Bloom, Clifton,New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 4, 2010 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 4, 2010 Just checkin' in, Big Guy, as I do each day to say good morning to you. Want you to know I'm still trying my best to get Queenie/Boo to safety. A lot of us out here are doing whatever we can for her, so she will not suffer as you did. I love you, my Neddie. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 3, 2010 They say an elephant never forgets, I hope you only remember the happy times and not the obvious neglect you endured prior to your days at the sanctuary. R.I.P. dear boy. Vickie, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 28, 2010 I will see you there, later.... all my love. Lynette Dumont, Golden, Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 28, 2010 G-g-g-g-goodbye Ned :( I'll miss you 4-ever!Bye Adam Bell, Pine Hollow,Minnesota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 25, 2010 Ned clearly enjoyed the best time of his life at the Sanctuary. What a fantastic gift he received of love and care. God bless Ned and all other elephants like him. Rebecca, Midwest USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 24, 2010 What an angel! He was so happy at the sanctuary. It showed in the photos. Stacey, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 23, 2010 A year without you Ned but you are forever loved and remembered... Meg Meg, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 23, 2010 Ned, you were so brave. I hope you had a great time in your lasting days. You were a real here!I love you! <3 Sarah, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 22, 2010 Precious Ned, I haven't forgotten about you. Just wanted to say I love you. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 20, 2010 i fill sorry for you and you are really pretty and you are so big... PS: you are sure are pretty. MIKAYLA BLAKELEY, CADIZ KENTUCKY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 18, 2010 you are a great looing animal and i hope you are having a great time in heaven and i would also like to say u were very handsom it is good that ur not suffering anymore GJLB=11, georgia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 28, 2010 ned you are adorible i will miss you katie P.S. you are my favorite elephant. katie, victoria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 25, 2010 Hi Ned, Remembering you a lot today. Hope you are having fun. :) Shalini, Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 24, 2010 Hi ned, this is amy from the united states um i love elephants so much i read bunnys profile and yours and alot of elephants i love reading about you and other ones cause i like to find out.when i was reading it i saw that you passed away and i want to say they loved having you with them. i miss you a lot and i hope you had a good life. Amy, united states . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 22, 2010 such a young boy, thankfully Ned got to experience love and a peaceful time filled with kindness at the end of his days..so fragile and precious..lets work towards giving all elephants a release like this... janette collins, australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 21, 2010 Hi Ned, I was thinking of you today. I hope you are resting peacefully. Many of us still miss you. God bless you. Terri, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 20, 2010 What an elephant, from a circus to a life saving sanctuary. Love you always Ned <3 .xxx R.I.P Sian, United Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 16, 2010 Dear Ned: I am glad you are resting peacefully in heaven and you had a chance to enjoy life and have some good food and frolic with the other elephants. You deserved it after a life of torture. You look great in this picture. I am so glad you at peace. Cindy Wines -www.freetheelephants.com, Tucson, AZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 14, 2010 My name is Sarah and I am 8. I hope you had a good end to your life. RIP Sarah, Massachusetts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 13, 2010 Ned is a very kind and gentle souled elephant, it's a shame to see him leave, he is in my prayers. Ned was the elephant that caught my eye and always will be. Melanie, Kingston Ontario K7K7L5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 10, 2010 My name is Noah and I am 4 years old. I had to pick an animal to learn about for my AWANA clubs and decided on the elephant, so my Mom helped me look for elephants and I found you. I really liked your story and was happy to learn about your life! Thanks! Noah, Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 9, 2010 Happy New Years Ned. We know that your spirit still remains with those who loved and cared for you at the sanctuary. Seeing the video of your arrival still brings tears to my eyes to think that such a gentle giant was so horribly mistreated. I think you were finally able to realize that not all humans are like circus people. You were able to leave this earth in peace. RIP Ned! Char , Arkansas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 8, 2010 Ned, You were a good elephant...now you rest in peace buddy. Liz, Minnesota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 8, 2010 R.I.P. gentle giant. KV, Allentown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 7, 2010 We Miss You Ned Rest In Peace Anonymous, USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 6, 2010 Ned, your time on earth was to short and your death was devastating. Your bravery was very inspiring. You will be very missed ned. RIP ned darling We love you Dorcas, Kalamazoo Mi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 5, 2010 I miss you so much Ned!! Emma, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 5, 2010 ned i loved watching your videos you are sooo cuteeeee and i wish you were still around i would have come to see you! will poling, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 4, 2010 I never met you, but I see and feel your gentleness and tenderness through your pictures and videos. I'm sorry humans were so cruel to you, but thank God that your last days were filled with love from people at the Elephant Sanctuary. I hope to meet you on the other side of the rainbow bridge one day. You are so greatly loved and missed. Kristen, Toronto, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 4, 2010 Thank you for your inspiring spirit Ned! I am so happy that you got to spend the end of your life in a place full of people who respect you for the magnificent creature that you are! I hope I will meet you in heaven cause I'd like to give you a big hug! Melanie, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 2, 2010 Dear Ned, I cried when I saw how thin you were and I cried when I saw that you were finally getting the care that you deserve. I hope you felt the love and connection before you passed. Leslie Sagara, Toronto, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 1, 2010 Another new year Ned. Missing you so much. Love you! Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2009 I'm glad Your final days were happy. Darlene Schueler, Estill Springs TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2009 Ned, Even though we miss you, your in a better place now. I hope you know how much people really cared about you and loved you. See you in heaven. Angie , Butler, Pa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2009 Each year brings the loss of good friends. Some on two feet and others on four. At first I cling to memories and don't want to let go. But on New Years Eve as the sun goes down I know it is time to say goodbye and make new friends in the coming year. So Ned, I feel happy to have seen and written to you, and tonight I am at peace with your moving on to an even brighter place this year. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2009 You brought tears to my eyes the day you came to the sanctuary when I saw you for the first time and tears when you passed. You bring tears now because you are missed. Enjoy the new geen pastures with all your ele family. You will always be remembered! Peace dear Ned. Dana Icenhour, Defuniak Springs, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 31, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope you have found peace and that your last months were happy. Angela Black, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 29, 2009 Ned- I remember when you first came to the sanctuary and I was so excited. After a while I stopped coming to the website but i did today and i was devastated to find out you had passed away. I hope you had a good life. RIP ned and Happy Holidays. Charlotte, Mercer Island Wa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 25, 2009 Merry Christmas, Ned! You are always in my thoughts my dear friend. I love you! Liz N., Oshkosh, WI 54901 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 24, 2009 Merry Christmas Nedster! Still miss you so much my dear special friend. Avni, Kitchener, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 24, 2009 Merry Christmas sweet Ned. Love you! Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 24, 2009 Christmas Eve Ned. The night animals can talk. I always fell asleep waiting for my housepets to talk to me, but I know they did. I hope your spirit will be back at the Elephant Sanctuary tonight speaking to all of your girls. Merry Christmas to all. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 22, 2009 Merry Christmas, my sweet Neddie. Forever in my heart. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 22, 2009 I'm choking back the tears. You magnificent soul. I'm crushed that some of us did this to you. I'm so angry and so sad. Peace be with you as you continue your journey Ned. I know you forgive us even when we don't deserve it. Namaste David Cook, Pensacola, Florida USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 21, 2009 Ned, It isn't like last Christmas. After reading Scott was leaving I quit coming back to read every day because it was another sad loss for the sanctuary and I couldn't take it. Today I read he will stay longer. Thanks for swaying him with your spirit. They didn't admit the girls were sad and just wouldn't allow him to leave. They must have cried a lot, like me. Thank goodness! Anne, pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 15, 2009 Precious Ned, I love you and miss you so much. You are my special ele-angel. Ushma, Kitchener, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 14, 2009 Ned, You are not forgotten... We remember you with love and fondness. May you rest in peace. A Wetmore, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 12, 2009 Oh, Ned, dear sweet Ned; I just watched the Dec video from last year. It's bittersweet. Looking at you is painful. No elephant should look that gaunt ever. Sending peace and love to you, Ned Namaste Anita, Calgary, Alberta, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 9, 2009 Neddie.....I can't think of you without getting a lump in my throat and a pain in my heart.... maybe it wasn't meant for you to stay here, but to inspire all of us who fell so in love with you to move into massive action to do whatever we can to stop the evils that befell your short life and put a stop to animals in circuses period....you'll always be in my heart Neddie donna, kingsport tn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 5, 2009 Hey Baby Boy- You're never far from my thoughts. Missing you and hoping for eternal sanctuary for you. You deserve no less than to smile forever. Blessings upon you. Caite York, Milton-Freewater, OR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 27, 2009 I often think of you Ned and hope you are in heaven frolicking with your other Ele friends. You are missed dearly here on earth but I am glad that you had good times at TES before your passing. Xoxox forever and always Lindsay Flynn, Newmarket, Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 26, 2009 ned was a nice, cute elephant and i hope he is having a great after life. jonny , batavia IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 26, 2009 Today, I am thankful to have known your story and thankful for all of the people who gave you loving care until your end. Blessings to all! Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 25, 2009 Ned... It's been a while since I wrote anything here but you are never out of my thoughts. You are the inspiration for those of us trying to help Queenie. But I am so worried about her today, I hope all Ned's friends will work to get her to a sanctuary, not to the dreadful San Antonio zoo where poor Lucy is incarcerated. Please help both elephants to a better life. Loving kindness to all... Meg Meg Johnson, NW US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 25, 2009 Ned, I still find it difficult to say your name and not shed a tear. One year ago you came to The Sanctuary and everyone near and far had high hopes for your recovery. Unfortunately, your precious life was cut short by severe illness that plague you for so many years. Your name today, means a lot more of us are fighting to get elephants like you to sanctuary. Miss you still Ned. Juanita, Livonia, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 24, 2009 precious precious Ned, Gods precious sacred baby....we love you! you suffered in this life but now your suffering is over and your in the arms of your creator.We will carry you in our hearts and memory forever and we hope one day to meet you in eternity. That hay on your head is very stylish!!!! Your such a BIG SILLY!!! God bless and keep you Ned.We love you forever. Can't wait to kiss&hug you in eternity. T.J. & Rhonda Burns, Pueblo, Colorado 81005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 18, 2009 We will remember you Christian, Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 17, 2009 I will remember you always, sweet Ned. Eileen, Melrose, Massachusetts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 15, 2009 Precious precious Ned, I can't believe that it has already been 6 months since you left. I miss you so much. Sweet Ned, you have made such a huge imprint on my heart and soul. I wanted so much for you to be well with every fibre in my being but it was not meant to be. My heart still breaks for you Ned and I don't think that it will ever stop. You will always be very special to me and I will never forget you. Lots of love to you my adorable and magnificent Ned. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 10, 2009 To Live In Hearts We Leave Behind Is Not To Die. Cj Baker, Orlando, Fl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 10, 2009 Dear sweet Ned, you spent such a short time with us here at the elephant sanctuary, but your time here was amazing. Also I miss you every day. I hope that you are gone off, and free of suffering. My dear sweet Ned, oh how I loved you with all my heart. When I see your pictures I am reminded of all your sweet, dear happiness that spread through all of my heart. I am sure that I am not the only one that feels the same way. So Ned has not been unloved at all, his time here was filled with greatness and I love you so much. Rest in piece my love, and happy Ned! Luz, Chicago IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 10, 2009 Dear Ned, I miss you everyday. I love you still with all my heart. I wish I could have made it down to Tenn. while I could see you, but I am blessed, and happy that there are still many elephants in the world. I miss you my dear Ned and I hope I can be blessed and meet many more elephants like you. I am the biggest elephant fan, and I have only read about a few elephants as sweet as you were. Rest in Peace my love, and I hope I get to see your friends soon. I miss you with all my heart. Emma , Chicago IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 9, 2009 Ned, I still think of you and hope you are in a place free of all the suffering you endured here on earth. I look at your picture here and see hope, I see it in your eyse, you knew your journey at the end. Namaste sweet Ned! Jeannette, New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 8, 2009 One year since you arrived in Tennessee, sweetheart, and one week short of six months since you left us. I seem to cry all the time for you, dearest Ned. I cry whenever I see your beautiful face with your silly little straw hat; I cry for what should have been and never was; I cry for how much you suffered because of what human beings did to you; and I cry for your valiant fight to live. I don't know of any other living being who touched the lives and hearts of people all over the world in just the six short months of your sanctuary life. You must truly be a saint among elephants, to have made so much love among people everywhere. Please help us from heaven to get Queenie to sanctuary. I love you and miss you so much, my Neddie. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 29, 2009 May love remain with you forever oxox Love Nora B, Seattle, Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 26, 2009 Hello Neddie.....always in my heart... donna, kingsport tn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 26, 2009 Ned, I am sorry that you had to pass away. Especially on my birthday. But i am sure that you are in a better place now. Tauri, RI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 24, 2009 It broke my heart to see the evidence of all that Ned had endured. I am so thankful that the end of his short life was spent in a safe place where he was loved and cared for. Jean, Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 24, 2009 Beloved Neddie: You must be working from heaven to get Queenie her miracle - the USDA has filed official charges against her owner. Details of the charges and how everyone can help get Queenie to safety are on the website of In Defense of Animals. Please - everyone who loves Neddie - do what you can to help save her. We need to make one final push to get Queenie her miracle. I just know that Ned will help us to save her. Thank you, everyone. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 23, 2009 Ned, You have touched me like nothing I can explain! I have followed you since you were brought to TN. My heart breaks but I know that you are in a better place and that brings peace to my heart. Love always, Trish Trish Hankins, Tampa, Fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 17, 2009 It is amazing how many hearts Ned touched in his short life, as the tributes to him keep coming in and bearing witness to all the love we feel for him and sorrow at his loss. Hopefully, Ned's story will help his half brothers and other eles in the circus industry gain sanctuary. I saw a UTube video of Ned's half brother Benny. It is called BennyMexico 0002, posted by PAWS. PAWS is trying to get through the mass of paperwork to bring Benny back from Mexico and put him in Ned's barn, which stands empty and waiting. Lee Holen, Anchorage, Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 15, 2009 Sweet precious Ned, Your passing still breaks my heart. Something in me connected to you forever when I first saw your arrival video at the sanctuary. I will always love you. Time goes on and yet the hurt still remains. Missing you so much. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 14, 2009 My honest and sincere heartfelt apologies for for your suffering at the hand of mankind. I know you will have understood the 'understanding' and hopefully kindness you were shown in your last days and not have felt fearful of humans. So enduring, so painful. My apologies and my love for you and your species/sub species. , England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 12, 2009 Dear Ned, Happy belated birthday! I am glad that you had peace in your final days. I think of you often. Say hello to everyone in elephant heaven. Love, Liz Liz N., Oshkosh, WI 54901 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 11, 2009 Beautiful Ned, humanity did not do right by you. Thank God for the elephant sanctuary where you could find freedom in your last days. Fair winds, Ned, always fair winds. A, NM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 10, 2009 Happy birthday sweet Ned. I still miss you but I know you are not in pain now, and that Bunny and the other girls are looking after you. Jackie B, Arlington, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 10, 2009 You Dearest, Darling, Beloved Elephant! Today is twenty two years to the day when You were born. On October 10th, 1987 You arrived into this world a small Elephant calf. It was a Saturday like it is today. You must have been as adorable then as all the days of your life. They named you Ned. Dear Ned, I wish you were here so that I could wish You a Happy Birthday. I am bittered for the rest of my life knowing what your Life was like. Knowing what was done to your Self and to your Life. People fought to get you away from the bad but it didn't happen soon enough. Towards the end, Carol took you in and eased your sorrows. I watched every video posted on the Sanctuary's website starting with the one where you arrived to Hohenwald and ever so hesitantly stepped out of the truck. Later on in the Sanctuary there is a picture of you coming down a path with autumn foliage in the background which is particularly dear to my heart. When I look at it I see so much goodness in your eyes, in your sweet face. Dear One. You have been on my mind ever since I learnt of your fate and always will be. Every day. I will do everything I can with all my might to stop the evil of circus. But Today, I will quietly remember You through tears and imagine how it might have been on that 1987 October day when, for the first time, you saw the Sunshine Ray. B., New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 10, 2009 Hi Ned, Missing you. You will always be in my heart. Shalini, Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 9, 2009 Just watched your slide show *again*, crying *again*! But I have to admit Ned, that you are not the only elephant I cry for. I cry especially for the orphaned elephant babies at the Sheldrick Trust in Africa. Poaching is rampant again since CITIES opened the ivory stockpiles in South Africa. My heart cries for elephants and their plight every day. I wish there was Sanctuary for all of them! Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 8, 2009 Thank you, Ned, for being the beautiful symbol of dignity, courage and trust for all of us humans. Rest well, sweet boy. jinna and tyler jinna and tyler, denver, co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 5, 2009 My Dear Sweet Neddie!! It has been so long since your passing but it seems like just yesterday. It is still just so painful to realize that you are gone. What a handsome boy you were. Forever in my heart dear boy. Miss you terribly. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 1, 2009 Here we go again Ned. This time it is Cole Bros Circus coming to town. Don't worry, I'm working with Divine Intervention to voice my opinion, again! I'm getting the message out with your story. They said the Elephant Sanctuary had much needed rain this year. I knew it would rain blessings from you! The girls thank you! Love & miss you still & always. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 1, 2009 My sweet beautiful ele-boy I still think of you many times each day and night. You somehow reached deep inside my soul and the souls of countless others. You had so much suffering in your life but thankfully you ended your days in the one place on earth where you were able to know true tenderness and love!! I can see it in your eyes even though you were worn out in body. There was a gleam in your eyes sensing something better to come in the next world. You were ready to move on to that next world knowing what true love is thanks to TES and all of those who truly cared about you. Namaste my dear one. Carole Lorraine Sipos, Marina del Rey, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 1, 2009 I love you, Ned. I noticed that a star has been added for you and one has been added for Bunny on the homepage. 2 more stars in heaven. Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 30, 2009 Dear Ned, I had a dream last night that Judge Emmett made his decision and that he decided in favor of the elephants! What a wonderful dream it was. I can only hope that the judge has mercy in his heart, that he will see that the circus is inherently cruel, and that he (as well as the appellate court members, when the expected appeal review occurs) will effectively put the circus industry out of business. How I hope and pray that this happens! Thank God for PETA who published the recent video footage on youtube of Ringling "handlers" and what really happens behind the scenes...that video was heartbreaking...to see such a majestic creature cringe at being struck with a whip in the face, to see the constant use of the bullhook, to see the hopeless faces of those poor elephants, to see the constant rocking back and forth, to see them going mad before our very eyes...Ned I know you went through all that and died because of it. You, being male, were treated even worse because of your size and male disposition. I am sorry humans were so bad to you. Maggie, Saratoga Springs, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 29, 2009 I love ned he wus a grate elephant love gaetana (7yrs.) the Krok Family, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 28, 2009 God bless the Elephant Sanctuary i love your work and stand with you in the fight for elephants love always, (and for all the elephants in your care.) Bella Bella Kwahaes, tampa florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 28, 2009 Rest in peace my friend. my love never leave you. may your pastures be green and may you see the glory of god. Nora B, Seattle, Washinton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 25, 2009 The first and most striking thing about Ned is his utter magnificence! I loved the video clip where he is enjoying the earth beneath his feet & is engaged with his new surroundings. How sad Humans let him down for so long. Ned says: "It went well for me (at the Sanctuary). I could not have been more pleased." Thank you beautiful spirit for gracing us with your presence. MaryAnn, Denver, CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 24, 2009 For all who love Ned and who helped to get Tina and Jewel to a better place, I just got this news from San Diego zoo: Both Jewel and Tina have increased their weight since their arrival," said Ann Alfama, lead elephant keeper. "They had a little bit of weight loss last week but now it is up again and they weigh more than they did when they got here." The animal care staff at the Elephant Care Center weighs the two large pachyderms on a weekly basis. Jewel weighed 6,407 pounds when she arrived at the Zoo. Tina weighed 7,381 pounds at that time. The elephants are weighed by asking them to walk onto and stand on a large platform scale. Today Jewel and Tina weighed 6,591 pounds and 7,627 pounds respectively." Isn't that great news? Let's hope these two lovely ladies continue to improve and grow in happiness - all thanks to Ned. Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2009 Ned, You will be missed. you friends will never forget you. you remain in their hearts forever. many loved you, none will forget you. rest in peace. may you find your family and love your life in heaven. may your troubles be gone along with your pains. May love always remain with you forever. Love, Nora :) Nora B, Seattle, Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2009 Dearest Ned Just got the Ele newsletter with your story in it. The picture of you is stunning - you were the most beautiful elephant and your great-hearted soul shines out from your eyes. Thanks to you, Tina and Jewel are safe and growing fitter and stronger in San Diego. There's a new video of them being weighed on the zoo site. Love forever Meg Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2009 Dear Ned those who loved you will never let u go you will be missed rest in peace lots of love xoxox Bella Kwahaes, Florida, Tampa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2009 God Bless You Ned for all the love you gave. Rest in Peace in Heaven BB, NYC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope everything is well in heaven!!!! I am at school right now. I hope that you are happy. I am missing and loving you very much. My guinea pig died and maybe you have meet her!!!! I love you so much and I miss you. Have a nice day my sweet NED!!!! Take Care, xoxoxoxox Love, Hailey Belyea - Taylor, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 22, 2009 Ned, The light of your soul shines bright. My heart hurts that you are gone, but I am glad that you had so many that loved you. steph p., oregon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 22, 2009 ned, you are in our hearts. I love ned he is important to me love gaetana.(7) i love you. love aleric(5) you have touched the hearts of my children and so deeply. it's sad that such beauty is abused. we all love you Gaetana, Aleric, baby Danica and Kimbirle Kimbirle, Gaetana, and Aleric Krok, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 16, 2009 Really made me cry. A very cool elephant. The big guy was treated like crap. At least he was given some peace at the end of his life. People should be kind to animals, as they make us human. mike, boston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 15, 2009 Precious Ned, Missing you so much today. I love you. You were a most special elephant on this earth. Sweet Ned, when there is so much wrong in this world and my thoughts turn to you, I feel comforted. You are free from all your suffering. Love you always. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 14, 2009 Oh Wonderful Ned, Your body was worn and tired but in those beautiful eyes, that elephants have, you can see that you had finally reached a place of peace and happiness. I pray that MAN can some day come to realize how amazing Elephants are. You can see so much wonder in an elephants eyes. Rest In Peace to you and your family and friends. To the Elephant Sanctuary - your are wonderful Laura J. , Newport, KY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 13, 2009 How can anyone be so cruel to such majestic animals? Thank you Elephant Sanctuary for existing and making Ned's last months as comfortable for him as they could be. I'm guessing he died of a broken spirit. S. Matson, Amsterdam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 12, 2009 Thinking of you today Ned, and missing you lots. You really deserved more time! Peace be with you now, no more hurting now. Run with the wind with your brothers and sisters up there in ele heaven. I will fight for others like you! JCE, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 11, 2009 NED!!YOU WILL NEVER BE FOR GOTTEN!! edge, PORT WASHINGTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 11, 2009 I have been crying for 2 days after finding this site !!!Thank you !!!ELEPHANT SANCTUARY FOR GIVING NED!!SOME PEACE AND LOVE HIS FINAL DAYS ON EARTH GOD BLESS THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY!! edge , port washington ny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 11, 2009 Me, too, Emma in Georgia. I miss Neddie so much and want him to come back to us. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 i miss you so much im crying!!!! please come back emma, GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 You beautiful baby. You did not deserve the treatment you received in the past. I thank God you had some freedom and love from these wonderful people. You touched my heart deeply. I am saddened by your death but your are now in a better place with our creator. Deborah Freed-Fishelman, Baltomore, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 Ned was a beautiful creature. Max, westvirginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 Thank you for such a wonderful story on Ned. It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing him to live his last days as free as he could be: unabused and with loving caretakers. I admire what you all do so very much. Rhonda D, San Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 God bless dear Ned. His life was so hard and painful but I'm so glad to know that his final days were spent in peace at The Animal Sanctuary. I would have loved to know Ned. Thank you for sharing his story. Margaret Case, Pasadena, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 10, 2009 What a grand animal you were - to be taken so selfishly by humans and forced to submit your mighty will so that we were entertained breaks my heart. May you find the peace in heaven that you never got here on earth... RIP NED Joey, Athens,Al . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 7, 2009 Although you have passed from this place, you have made a lasting impression on my 7 year old daughter. "mommy, how could someone be so cruel and mean?" she asked as we cried over you together. I had no answer good enough. I told her to find the good in it, you spent your final time in a place of love and serenity where people loved you. You were so beautiful, your eyes told your whole story without a single word. It hurts my heart to see how you and others have been treated. No animal deserves cruelty. Despite your passing my children and I love you and all those like you. May you rest well and at peace. Know that there are three more people, myself, my daughter and my little son who ache for your treatment. Bless the elephant sanctuary for helping some to survive, and some to just pass in a loving environment. Good bye beautiful Ned...you are now in our hearts. Kimbirle, Gaetana, and Aleric Krok, cortland, ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 5, 2009 Dear Ned, if you see a little gray cat named Pharoah come strolling across the rainbow bridge, please welcome him. Pharoah was perfectly healthy, or so we thought, and then suddenly his legs were paralyzed from an embolism and he died. We will miss him but my heart is a little comforted knowing that you might be there to greet a fellow citizen of the earth. I still miss you lots, Ned, and just wrote a letter to the Los Vegas Circus about your brother Bo who you never knew. Maggie, Saratoga Springs, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 4, 2009 Another of Ned's brothers needs our help. From PAWS: "ANOTHER CIRCUS TRAVESTY BO, THE ALL AMERICAN ELEPHANT" "The Shriner's Circus is coming to the South Point Event Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, September 17th through 20th. They are featuring Bo, a young bull elephant who is half brother to Ned....Bo, like Ned, Benny, Luke and Mickey was captive-born, sired by Vance, a breeding bull from the circus. All of these young bulls were taken from their mothers before they were a year old and performing when they should still have been nursing." If you go to the PAWS website, there is information to protest with Shriners, Las Vegas, and a live protest on Sept. 19. Lee, Anchorage, Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 30, 2009 My sweet Neddie: When only Tina and Jewel were confiscated by the USDA/USFWS - precious Queenie was left behind with Davenport. She became "the forgotten one, the one left behind." I could not stand the pain for her. But now In Defense of Animals says there may still be hope to get her to sanctuary, or else reunited with Tina and Jewel. I have posted below the recent update on their website. All of us who love you and wrote letters and made phone calls to help save Tina and Jewel must now re-group for a final surge to get Queenie saved. EVERYONE - PLEASE DO NOT LET HER LIFE END WITH DAVENPORT. We must now go by the code of our United States Armed Services: NO MAN LEFT BEHIND. If even the smallest hope exists for saving Queenie - we must do everything we can for her. Please see below for IDA's latest update from their website. QUOTE: THE FIGHT GOES ON FOR QUEENIE: We are encouraged by recent news from the USDA indicating that there is still hope for this elephant, who has suffered at the Davenport family's hands for decades. Earlier this week, IDA asked our members to continue to write to the USDA on behalf of Queenie, who was left behind when Tina and Jewel were confiscated. On that day, August 20, Will Davenport voluntarily surrendered his USDA exhibitor's license. According to the USDA, this means he cannot legally sell, trade or exhibit Queenie, nor can he transport her anywhere. Unfortunately this also means that, for now, the USDA has no jurisdiction over Queenie's care. But the agency has confirmed that it continues to investigate Davenport's activities prior to August 20. Thanks to his refusal to cooperate with the USDA's first confiscation attempt on August 15, these activities include not only abusive and negligent handling and care of Queenie, but also defying a federal order and interfering with the USDA's official enforcement activities, subjecting him to the possibility of both civil and criminal penalties. We (IDA) are exploring all legal options to secure Queenie's future at a sanctuary. END QUOTE Please, everyone, write to the USDA and your legislators (see IDA's website for contact information). If we can help get Queenie to a new life, our Ned will not have suffered and died in vain. I love you, Neddie. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 29, 2009 Darling Heavenly Boy, Neddie, We still miss you and think of you often. You are off running and trumpeting with all those who have preceded you. We love you and thank you for all that you brought us while you were on this earth. Love to your earthly caregivers and especially Gracie, we love you all too! Claudia and Brodie, Pleasanton CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 29, 2009 It fills my eyes with tears to see such magnificent beings being ill treated for the sake of 15 minutes of circus amusement. Elephants need fresh vegetation as food and not dried hay. What you guys are doing is really worth appreciation. RIP Ned. Ritwaj Ratan, Raleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 29, 2009 Ned, it is great to know that Jewel and Tina have been rescued, now if you and the girls with you could help poor Queenie be rescued too. The sanctuary would be perfect for her as it was for you and the all the girls karen, mn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 28, 2009 Hello Ned- I just watched the video of Tina and Jewel at San Diego zoo getting their first medical exam. What sweet ladies they both are! Jewel is very sick and so she is where she needs to be as the zoo has extensive, state-of-the-art veterinary care available for her. And her long-time friend Tina is with her which must give her great comfort. Let's not forget Queenie though who needs a sanctuary and ele-friends too. Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 28, 2009 Dear Ned: I still can't believe you are gone. I feel such empathy for your years in captivity and your obvious suffering. It should have been different for you. I am so glad that you got to spend your last months on earth in the care and love of the Elephant Sanctuary, and I along with too many people to count will miss you very much always. Diane Kluttz, Phoenix, Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 27, 2009 I'm glad Jewel and Tina were rescued but I was hoping they would go to a sanctuary. What about Queenie? Maybe she can come to the elephant sanctuary. Catherine, Charlotte, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 27, 2009 Sweet Neddie: If I were an artist I would paint the picture I see this morning on the Elecam: The sanctuary's fields enveloped in mist, with one tall evergreen tree seen in the distance and a bright light shining down from the sky. I always wonder, when I see a field, if it's where you are resting. I love you, my beautiful boy. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 25, 2009 I think it's wonderful news that Jewel and Tina will be at the San Diego Zoo. If it has to be a zoo, San Diego is one of the very best. But let's not forget Queenie who must be in deep distress without her friends... I am just so happy that Ned's life wasn't in vain and that so many people are now working for the improvement of other elephants' lives. What a wonderful tribute! Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 25, 2009 I, too, was bitterly disappointed that Jewel and Tina were not taken to sanctuary. Here, however, is what Pat Derby at PAWS says: "All zoos are not bad, and our sanctuary is far from being perfect. PAWS has always welcomed the support of zoos and caring keepers in alleviating the suffering of animals living chained in trucks and railroad cars. Personnel from San Diego Zoo spent four days without sleep assisting in the rescue and safe transport of Tina and Jewel. They fed, watered and comforted the two animals non-stop until they arrived at the zoo. Their reports that the two were traveling well, eating and drinking voraciously, and were "two sweethearts" made me realize that caring about animals is not limited exclusively to animal rights activists. When Tina and Jewel arrived at the zoo, their life changed from the horrible existence of standing on three feet of chain and waiting to be fed once a day, if they were lucky, to having food and water available all the time, freedom to move about and elephant companions with which to socialize. No chains, no bull hooks, no filthy, hot trucks and no tricks to perform. To Tina & Jewel, the zoo is their sanctuary." PAWS is going to post an up-date about what can be done to free Queenie. It was helpful for me to hear how much better T & J's lives will be, even though we know not as good as at TES or PAWS! Lee, Anchorage, Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 24, 2009 Dearest Ned, You did not deserve what the circus and circus trainers did to you. I am very saddened by your passing, but am very grateful that you got to experience loving care from the wonderful people of the Elephant Sanctuary. We all miss you so much! Liz Liz, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 24, 2009 I find myself missing you everyday. Your story in PAWS Summer 2009 about your empty barn breaks my heart. I hope that Benny and Luke will be set free and arrive here in California in your memory someday. I will always love you. Still Broken Hearted in California, Proud to be a NedHead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 23, 2009 He is so CUTE!!!! Makenzi Brewer, Tennessee, Big Sandy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 22, 2009 Dearest Neddie, How time is flying by! But your memory won't ever fly away from those who love you. You and Bunny and all of your species have helped to secure the release of sisters Tina and Jewel! Because of your life and your suffering you have brought awareness to the USDA and to people in general. Elephants are on the move to better places. But in the name of all that is right, why did the people in charge not send ALL THREE girls (Boo, Tina, Jewel) to a SANCTUARY with enough acres to roam and to choose their friends properly? I am happy that things are changing, but sometimes I think it's two steps forward, one step back. At least it's moving forward Ned. Always thinking of you. Marie L., North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 21, 2009 My Neddie: We got two of them, Ned - the USDA yesterday confiscated Tina and Jewel!!! You and your sisters and brothers in heaven must be so very happy!!! But we still need all your help from heaven to get Queenie saved, as well. Please help us, Ned, and we all we do everything we can from this end to get Queenie reunited with her beloved sisters. We got a miracle, Ned. We just need one more for Queenie. I love you always. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 20, 2009 Ned I have been thinking about you lately because of the battles to confiscate three elephants, Tina Jewel and Queenie(Boo). I hope that when they confiscated you they set a precedence. I have contacted the powers -congressman, head of USDA and even the President to confiscate all three elephants. I love this picture of you and know that when you got to TES you were happy. Hopefully these other three elephants will get to TES soon. Love you always. Erika Simmons , Hamilton, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 20, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 20, 2009 Way to go, Ned! It looks like, due to the love people have for you, that the battle to save Queenie, Jewel and Tina is almost over. I just read that Will Davenport is willing to give up all three elephants to the USDA. Rejoice in heaven, Ned! Love to you forever! Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 19, 2009 Dear Ned, I just read this in the Houston Chronicle dated August 19, 2009, "HOUSTON” A Texas man who has battled federal authorities over the three elephants he keeps in a barn behind his traveler trailer is ready to give up, the Houston Chronicle reported Wednesday. After hiring a Houston lawyer, Davenport said he can no longer afford to fight and will turn over the elephants." Ned this means that Tina, Queenie and Jewel have a chance. I am so excited that I can hardly contain myself, if I could trumpet with joy I would, I feel so silly right now I may try. CJ, Perdido Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 19, 2009 Oh Ned, I got the S.O.S.and have been feverishly reading everything at IDA and writing to the USDA to encourage them to take Tina and Queenie when they go back for Jewel. I also wrote the local newspaper where Will Davenport lives, defending the USDA's right to remove these elephants, Davenport says his Veterinarians can't find anything physical wrong, well, something is wrong, their weight loss continues, I am not a Veterinarian but if you know anything about elephants you can see these elephants are suffering from long-term stress. If they aren't freed soon,it may be to late, I fear they will give up all hope of being rescued and die. CJ, Perdido Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 17, 2009 Dearest Neddie: I am sending an S.O.S. to everyone all over the world who loved and prayed for you - the USDA has attempted confiscation of Jewel and has been defied by her owner Will Davenport. Please everyone go to the website of In Defense of Animals and read their bulletin on what happened and how you can help. We must save not just Jewel, but Tina and Queenie, as well, and get all three to sanctuary. Please go to the website and read how you can help. Please do it for our beloved Ned. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 17, 2009 I am embarrassed by and ashamed of the humans who caused Ned to be in the condition he was in when rescued. I am grateful and thankful for all of the people who participated in Ned's rescue, and glad that he had a few months when he could feel comfortable and not afraid. Elephants are such social creatures. William S. Byles, Southern California near Los Angeles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 15, 2009 Dear Ned, I am so sorry I haven't written in a while. SO sorry. I love you lots and I really want you to be ok. I miss you more than anything. The world made an amazing elephant! You deserve a lot of credit having to put up with circus acts! I am doing the best I can to help all kinds of elephants in the world! I love elephants and I couldn't bare to lose elephants in our world. They are the best animals that we have! Thank you Ned! Your a real hero!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Take Care Ned! xo Love Hailey Belyea Taylor, Ottawa ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 15, 2009 The zoo in my area is closing tomorrow. Divine intervention. Thanks Ned! My heart still hurts when I think of you. It has been a long three months. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 15, 2009 When will people learn animals have rights? God did not create man and woman to exploit or profit from his divine creations. Its time we put an end to animal suffering and abuse in this century! God bless Ned and all of God's other creatures. J K Kurkson, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 13, 2009 Beloved Neddie: Your suffering and death will never be forgotten by so many of us who love you still. You will always live in our hearts. A lot of us are continuing our efforts in your memory to save your sisters and brothers in circuses and zoos. I'm doing all I can to help save Tina, Jewel, and Queenie, who have not been seen in public since being turned away from Idaho Shrine circuses in mid-June. They are supposedly still in their home base in Leggett, Texas. Have just written to the brand-new Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, forwarding him a lot of letters and emails about the tragic lives of TJQ - and also attached your photo and the story of your painful life and death - to ask him to please make it one of his first actions as new Director to save Tina and Jewel under the Endangered Species Act due to their illegal sale by Cole Bros. to Davenport (currently still an "open investigation" by USFWS) - and hopefully somehow Queenie will also be able to be saved. I cannot believe, Neddie, that government agencies don't act when it is in their power to do so. They sure must be gettin' sick of hearing from me, sweetheart! But I will continue the fight as long as they ignore the suffering of your sisters and brothers, as they ignored yours. My love always. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 12, 2009 Dear Ned, There you are lurking in my thoughts, I remember how abuse left you a shell of yourself, makes me realize we all must do more to stop this abuse, memories of you are behind everything I do and say in defense of all mistreated elephants. Wish I could have made a difference in your life, but instead will make a difference for other elephants in your death. CJ, Perdido key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 11, 2009 Rest in Peace sweet Ned Eileen Beniest, Breaux Bridge, Louisiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 8, 2009 Dearest Ned, Oh, how much I miss you, sweet boy. You touched so many hearts while you were at the Sanctuary. And now, you are still touching many lives and making people aware of how so many eles need our help. I take comfort in the fact that you are no longer in pain and are at peace. I will never forget you, dear heart, and will always love you. Connie, Renton, Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 7, 2009 I hope you enjoyed your final days in the Sanctuary Ned. I'm sure you have touched alot of lives being one of god's most beautiful creatures rest in peace buddy. Carlyie, Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 6, 2009 It is truly an honor that you bless this earth with your presence. I am ashamed that any human would ever believe that they have the right to possess you in any way. You are magnificent in every way, and I am sorry for the life you had to live. I saw the pain in your eyes, and I saw the joy begin to return. It is unfair that you only had a few short months of happiness again, but I know that you are in heaven and there is no room for pain. Bless you, and I am glad you will rest in peace. Always know that there are many who will continue their efforts to help the gentle, wise giants that all of you are. Marla, Vancouver, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 6, 2009 Rest in peace you big, beautiful, wonderful, precious, kind, innocent creature of God. I love you. Kimberly, Oakland, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 5, 2009 Dear Ned, thinking of you and all the lovely ladies in TN as I write a letter to Mexico to help rescue the brother you never met, Benny. And we all know there's no shortage of others that need to be rescued, including Queenie, Tina and Jewel. Maggie, Saratoga Springs, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 3, 2009 Hey sweet pea- Still missing you and wishing I could read your progress page. Reading your tributes is bittersweet. I hope all your brothers and sisters find sanctuary. Working at the primate sanctuary helps keep me busy so I don't dwell on our loss too much. Love you tall, lanky boy. Please say 'hi' to our girls in ele-heaven. Tell Bunny and Jenny that Shirley is doing well. Tara has become such a wonderful little sister. They and Joanne would be so proud. Many hugs and kisses Caite York, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 2, 2009 Thank you, Lee in Alaska - you are right! No greater tribute to our dearest Ned than to have one of his brothers live at PAWS in what was to have been his barn (and always will be Ned's barn for me). Neddie will be so proud of us from heaven if we can help accomplish that. And please everyone remember that Tina, Jewel, and Queenie still need our help - we must get the USDA to confiscate them and not let that agency fail them the way it failed our beloved Ned. In Ned's memory - we must work to save them. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 1, 2009 Help Fill Ned's Barn. On the PAWS website, Save the Bulls campaign, they indicate that Ned has several half brothers by Vance--Mickey, Benny, and Luke, all of whom need rescue. Benny apparently was sold illegally to a zoo in Mexico, and PAWS seems hopeful he may be returned. They have addresses and contacts to officials to write for the release of Benny to PAWS. The thought of Ned's barn empty breaks my heart. Despite TES's heroic efforts, he never recovered to go to his permanent home. What better tribute than to try to save one of his brothers? Lee Holen, Anchorage, Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 31, 2009 My precious Nedley. I am still here, still remembering you every day with tears and sometimes even with smiles. Your face is etched in my heart forever, your story remains a turning point for my life. Oh, how I miss you!! Sweetest boy, I will love you always, cherish the lessons you brought to so many. You started something amazing, and it will be carried on until all who need sanctuary arrive in the wondrous green valley that is TES. Auntie Deb, Sac, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 31, 2009 My Dear Gentle Giant. It seems ages since we lost you and still I cry for you and for all of your misery that you endured. How blessed we were to know you for just a short while. How these horrible things could have happened to you still angers me. But I must let it pass and pray now that you are happy and never will you be in pain again. You are so dearly missed. How could any of us possible forget you. What a beautiful boy you were. I hope you knew the love we all had for you before you passed away. I shall forever miss you and hold you near to my heart. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 31, 2009 Still crying, my beautiful boy, for what should have been, but never will be. I love you always. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 30, 2009 I still look at your pictures every day Ned! You will always hold a special place in my heart... Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 30, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 29, 2009 We followed your story and we love you Ned!! Rest with the angels! Sarah & Stefani, Ky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 25, 2009 Dear Ned, I don't know what it was about you that stole my heart, but from the moment that I saw you step from the trailer onto the ground of the Elephant Sanctuary, (with tears in my eyes) I loved you!! I'm so thankful to them for giving you the best care during your last months here on earth. I watched you change from a sad elephant to a happy one, playing and doing what elephants are suppose to do. I haven't been able to write a tribute to you till today, it's just been too hard for me. How I can be so upset over an animal that I've never seen, I don't know, but you were special. I'm sending you lots of hugs and kisses, and I know you're happy in your new home in heaven. Rest in peace, my friend:-) Sue, L. I., New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 22, 2009 Dear Ned, How are you. I am missing you lots and I am also worried about you. Everything that happened to you is so tragic. I wish I could make every single bad thing in your life and in the lives of all elephants better. It would make everything and everyone so much better and happier! I am so sorry you had to go through with being in circuses and goig throu bad people. You arrived sick already at the sanctuary. Isn't that just awful. I need you to be alive and your an amazing animal. Your awesome. Your my hero. Keep holding on up there!!!!! I love you so much and I miss you to death. One day we will meet eachother in the wonderful place your in now!!! Take Care my dearest Ned! xoxoxoxo Hailey Belyea - Taylor, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 18, 2009 Beautiful Majestic Ned! May you not only Rest in Peace, but watch over your beautiful companions here on earth. ZiZi Wells, Reno, Nevada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 16, 2009 In your honor Ned, I went to PAWS website and signed the petition to be sent to the USDA on behalf of Tina, Queenie, and Jewel. The few minutes it takes is the least we can do to try and save these elephants. Also wrote another letter to Senator Bill Nelson of Florida requesting that he contact the USDA NOW! On behalf of all abused elephants waiting to be saved. I am ashamed that my state harbors many of these abusive circuses, make no mistake I am on the side of the Elephants, and will continue to try and stop this abuse in Florida and every where. I have spent the past week reading current and archives news about the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Africa. https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/index.asp I learned volumes from reading about their efforts to raise orphaned baby elephants and return them to the wild for almost 50 years, these orphans are from 8 to 10 years of age when they are able to rejoin the wild elephants. Reading the stories about how some of the adult orphaned elephants who went to live with their wild brothers and sisters came back years later to visit the orphanage compound was heart warming. These young orphaned elephants have been observed over the decades as they formed a new family units, much like the Elephants who have come to live at TES. CJ, Perdido key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 15, 2009 Hi Ned, My heart is still full of so much love for you. I miss you alot my friend. I think of you everyday especially when I am out in the garden; there are some special flowers I planted just for you. You will never be forgotten Nedster. I love you always and forever. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 15, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope you are having a good day today. I found out from the people that took care of you what was wrong. I am so sorry Ned! It is no fun to have to suffer like that. But you were in good hands of some of the people that love you! Which is always a very good thing to have! Ned I hope everything is alright and that you are happy! Take care! I love you and miss you so much Ned!!!! xoxoxoxo0xoxoxo:):) Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 15, 2009 Two months you've been gone. I still feel the twinge of sadness when I sit down at my computer knowing there will be no news on your progress. But I know it was the best possible ending to live at The Sanctuary. I'm just having a difficult time loving another elephant as much as I did you. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 15, 2009 My Neddie: What beautiful letters you received from Hailey. I am so very sorry you could not be here to know such tremendous love from such a wonderful young lady. I pray that you are smiling down on her for all the love she has for you. And I also pray you are happy about what we are doing here, in your name and memory, continuing our efforts to save Tina, Jewel, and Queenie. I am happy to report that there are now 461 signatures on PAWS' petition to the USDA to free them to sanctuary. A lot of them are for you and in your memory. And I am so very proud that one of my CT senators is now working on their behalf, and has contacted Secretary Vilsack to get them help. I pray that you will work from heaven to get them to Tennessee, to end their lives of suffering. I ask once more for everyone to please not forget that these three precious elephants still need your help and that everyone please continue to write the Secretary of Agriculture, the USDA (Ann Wright), and your legislators that they must save Tina, Jewel, and Queenie before its too late. I love you always, my sweet boy, and will continue my work to save other elephants in your name and memory. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 14, 2009 Missing you so much today precious Ned. Love you so much my special ele-angel. I will never forget you. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 14, 2009 I miss you and love you lots! I need you to be ok in heaven ned!!!!!!! Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 14, 2009 You were rescued too late! The damage was already done. The only solace we have with your passing is that you got to spend your few last months in the open air - free to roam, wherever, whenever. I love you. I'm so sorry for what you went through - you beautiful creature of God. Shannon , Phialdelphia, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 13, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope you are having a good day today. I love you so much! I miss you. I hope that everything up in heaven is going alright! If you want to can you please give a big shout out to all my family living up there. Ned you are one of my family! I need you here still!! Have a wonderful day Ned!!!! I love you and I miss you lots and lots! Take care Ned!! xoxoxoxo Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 12, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope you are having a good day today. I am thinking of you lots. I am very excited because tomorrow, Ned, I am going to type up my story about elephants. In fact I dedicated it to you and all the other elephants at this sanctuary! My book is going to be called Gentle Giants. It is a book about elephants. It is not a very big book and I am not going to put it in stores, it is just for fun! I enjoy making stories about thins I like and love. I have made many in the past! Oh Ned! I am dearly hoping that you are having a good day today! Have a nice one my dear Ned! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo I love you lots and miss you lots!xoxo Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 11, 2009 Dear Ned, I am taking action against circuses. Recently I just did a speech in front of my class about "Why Elephants Shouldn't Be In Circuses". I felt proud of myself for sending a very important message. Then out of all the students in my class, I WON! I had to present my speech in front of almost everyone at my school! I did it. Those were the finals. But I did not win that one. I actually researched a bit on you and all the other elephants at this sanctuary for my speech. The ones that were in circuses that is. I fell in love with you! You provided me enough information about circuses that it finished my speech! Thanks! I bet you are the one that made me lucky! I miss you so much NED! Wish you were here much NED! Take lots of care in heaven! Love you lots! xoxoxox Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 11, 2009 Hi Ned! I have made a little head stone made out of paper for you today! I put your picture on a piece of paper and put it in place. When I walk into my room the first thing I see is that paper little headstone. I am planning to talk to you at least everyday. At my house we are remembering you lots! I have named a WWF stuffed elephant when I adopted an Asian Elephant( i just donated money!) called the most wonderful name for any elephant! NED! Boy do I cozy with him all the time! I rub my head against him. It makes me think of you when I do it! And I love thinking of you. It makes tears come out of my eyes. People ask " Why are you crying" and I just say, My little angel died and I love him to pieces! I need him to pieces. I need to see him and I need to love on him. So when I love on my stuffed NED i think of you. Actually, it very nicely looks like you to. I wish it was you! I miss you NED lots! I love you! Have a great day today NED! xoxoxoxoxoxoxo Hailey, Ottawa, ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 10, 2009 Silly Ned with grass on your head; I miss you, sweet elephant. Jenna, Vancouver, BC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 9, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 8, 2009 Dear Boy, You will ALWAYS be loved and missed. You are my favourite elephant. You are a very lucky elephant to be able to live at this sanctuary! I will always miss you and you will always be in my heart. In heaven at least your there with millions of other elephants including, Lota from this sanctuary that has passed away. Always know that I love you so much. And always know that I'm not the only one that love's you. Everyone does. I cry everytime I see your videos. Especially the one to freedom at last! Now rest in peace my sweet little angel. I love you so very much and I miss you! Take Care! Hailey, Ottawa, Ontario, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 8, 2009 Bless you Ned. I hope your short time at the sanctuary was remarkable and a happy time for you. May you rest in peace. Mark Emery, Lindsay, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 8, 2009 Dearest Ned, Please watch over the new baby girl elephant who was born at the Memphis Zoo on Monday. Her death was an accident but I am worried about her mother now. I try to remain calm while writing a letter on her behalf but it is so hard when my heart is breaking. There are million letters to write about captivity breeding, all in your memory and for the future of your kind. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 8, 2009 Nedly, I was doing pretty well with my grief process, and then I saw a photo of you from before you were rescued and brought to TES, all emaciated and performing in the circus. It's actually good to be reminded of the unbelievable cruelty that human greed fosters, so we can keep fighting the good fight for you. I will love you always! NedHead Ginny, WA State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 7, 2009 My Dear Sweet Boy. I still cry when I think of you and your tortured soul. I will never get over your loss. It all still seems so unfair and it is a burden I will forever carry. Love You Neddie!! Miss you Neddie!! I can only hope you are happy now and are feeling no pain and know of the love that everyone here still feels for you. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 4, 2009 Just writing in again to say how much you are loved and missed. Rest in Peace knowing that in the end you were truly loved <3 Still crying...... Lisa Koehl, Brooklyn, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 3, 2009 Oh, my precious Nedley, I have watched your tribute here on the sanctuary site and to see you again was so wonderful! You are nice and BIG on the video and I can almost reach out and kiss that gorgeous face! I still cry for you, honey, I still have so much pain that you are gone from us. But you have changed my life. You have prodded me from complacency and directed my path toward making certain that no other brother or sister suffers as you did. This I will continue to work for, in your name, in your honor, in your memory. I love you, sweet boy. Auntie Deb, Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 3, 2009 What a beautiful sunrise on your Tennessee fields this morning, Neddie! On PAWS' website yesterday, they showed a picture of "Ned's Barn" - I haven't stopped crying since I saw it. I pray that someday very soon, another precious bull will be living there in freedom and peace. But to me, sweetheart, it will always be "Ned's Barn." Also on PAWS' website is a petition with a letter to Dr. Gibbens of the USDA, requesting that the USDA take immediate action to confiscate Tina, Jewel, and Queenie. There are now over 300 signatures. A lot of them, Neddie, are in your memory. I am asking everyone, all over the world, who loves you so much to please go to the website and sign the petition - please do it for our precious boy who never got to California. I love you, Ned, and always will. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 2, 2009 Ned, I still miss you so much. Still tear up when I see your picture. You will never be forgotten! Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 2, 2009 You with your grass hat, this picture always makes me smile - even through my tears! Miss you and all the good stories about you, oh neddie boy. Wishing I could pat you on the trunk there between the eyes and truly say goodbye to such a sweet, soft and adorable face. Jennifer Mueller, Las Vegas, Nevada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 30, 2009 Thank you Ned. I am so sorry. Reeves, Asheville, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 30, 2009 Oh Ned, I didn't know until now. ...I am so sorry. Honey, I am so sorry. We are sorry. Thank you for being so brave and so giving while you were at the Sanctuary, trying your best, and living as best as you could. I am so sorry that man didn't take care of you. I am so sorry you were taken out of your home. I hope you are home again, with your elephant spirit and friends. I am grateful for how you were on earth with us. I am so sorry, Ned. ....Please know you were loved. Tracey, Asheville, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 29, 2009 Hi Ned- I had to stay away for a while so I could stop crying long enough to find a job. As I look over all of your beautiful tributes, and at the caregivers and interns at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary where I volunteer, I am struck by how many more women than men seem to show an interest in the plight of captive wild animals. I don't know why this is but feel pretty certain that until more men's hearts are touched enough for them to get involved, our progress toward relieving the suffering of your fellow elephants and other wild animals will be very slow. There are some prominent and beautiful men such as Bob Barker who get involved and are a strong impetus in the rescue of a few animals but, unfortunately, there are not enough of them. There are also disproportionately too many men in charge of agencies such as the USDA. Tom Vilsack is the new head of the USDA. We'll address our concerns to him about your fellow elephants, Ned. Hopefully, with constant pressure from us, he may come around to see and do something about the horrific suffering of elephants such as Jewel, Tina, Queenie, and others. It would be really nice if they would do something before they become totally emaciated and are photographed performing as you were. Even worse for them, they are being kept out of the public's eye and shuffled from one state to the next in secrecy. One would hope that those entrusted with their well-being, the employees of the USDA, would be smart enough to figure that one out. But we can't despair nor give up our efforts. We can only hope and pray and continue on, without ceasing, in your name, Nedly. Warmest regards to you, your sisters, and everyone connected with TES. Let's don't give up the struggle. We ARE gaining ground for their sakes, in their names. Caite York, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 25, 2009 The photo of you holding fresh grass is priceless! It shows how strong you could have been. I wanted you to enjoy the spring, so it means the world to me. I don't even try to quit crying when I see your photos anymore. The only way to recover is to grieve for awhile. I'll bet you cried every day until you came to the sanctuary. You were one sweet elephant for sure. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 25, 2009 I am listening to "Now we are free" from Gladiator - it always reminds me of you, Ned. Now you are free and somewhere your heart is resting easier knowing that we are fighting to help others... Love you Ned forever... Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 24, 2009 I tried to watch your video again today, but still cannot. Maybe someday, sweetheart. In the meantime, though, I am gathering people to sign PAWS' on-line petition, which will be sent to Dr. Gibbens (USDA) requesting the immediate confiscation of Tina, Jewel, and Queenie. Working to get them to sanctuary is all I can do for you now, my Neddie. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 24, 2009 I have just re-cried my eyes out watching the Ned tribute video. I really wish Ned could have lived longer. I miss you big boy! Juanita, Livonia, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 23, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 23, 2009 Such a beautiful tribute!! Thank you TES! I have written the USDA, the President and First Lady and my Representatives. I pray they they will come to the aid of suffering elephants. Stay strong Queenie,Jewell and Tina!! May your life and death not be in vain dear Ned! Karen, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 22, 2009 Dear Ned Still miss you so much my special ele-friend! You have touched me so deeply that I will never ever forget you sweet Nedster. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 22, 2009 My beautiful boy: It's so wonderful to read that AD and CJ are also working, in your name, to free Tina, Jewel, and Queenie. I'm still trying to find out where they are now and where they are going next. I understand that last week they were to have performed in Shrine circuses in Idaho, but never showed up - it is believed that it was due to all the publicity of their horrible condition. Every time I learn where they are scheduled to be, I write to that state's governor, senators, local mayors/council people, even to the local newspapers, attaching the chronological list of abuses they have suffered for so many years and of which the USDA is aware, has documented, and IGNORES. I also always attach your story, Neddie, to show how the USDA failed you, and how they are continuing to fail in their job to protect Tina, Jewel, and Queenie. And, sweet boy, I've also sent your story to our First Lady to show her that we cannot wait for the USDA to act until it's too late, the way it was for you, sweetheart. Someone with very special authority needs to act to save them. I pray that with all of us who love you so very much working together, in your name, we can get these three precious souls to sanctuary before it's too late. I love you always, Ned. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 21, 2009 Dear Carol and Scott, There really are no words to tell you how grateful that I am that you do what you do. I truly appreciate all that you do for the girls, but you both really touched my heart when you brought that sweet soul, Ned, to Hohenwald. It's so hard to think of the terrible things all these creatures have gone through, truly heart-breaking, but I am so happy that Ned spent his last days, with you, here in TN. We are all better for having "met" Ned and hearing his story. Out of that, maybe change will come. I keep in my memory, this picture of Ned, with his "grass hat". What a sweet, funny fellow he was. Thank you again for bringing this boy home and allowing him to have a few months of peace before he passed on. Namaste Ned. Suzanne, Chattanooga, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 21, 2009 Maybe a lasting tribute to Ned will be if we can get the USDA to do their job and help other elephants before it's too late. I too will be writing to senators now, not the USDA who ignore letters and even tell their inspectors that they don't need to inspect circuses in their area. Circuses should be inspected EVERY time they move animals or set up anywhere, not once a year or so. (Steve UK - are you old enough to remember Rosie?) Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 21, 2009 Dear Ned.........I have been reading everything I can find about the documented and recorded treatment of circus elephants, especially Jewel, Tina and Queenie, their continued abuse has been noted and recorded by the USDA for YEARS! Yet the USDA does little to rescue these Elephants or others, if they do, it is to late to save them, as was the case with you Ned. When I have written the USDA on behalf of captive elephants all I get is a form letter back from them, saying nothing, which has convinced me that the ONLY way to get the USDA's attention is to go OVER their heads, that is why from now on I am going to write my state senator and local government representatives, they are the only ones who can come down on the USDA and make them do their job. As long as we continue to let the USDA live in their own little world, and govern themselves,the elephants will lose. This web site lets you look up your own State Representatives and their email address for your state. http://ida.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=electedOfficials From now on, I will be writing my Florida Representatives on a regular bases letting them know about how, for decades the USDA investigates these reported abuses and even when severe violations are discovered, the leaders of the USDA ignore their own investigators findings and turn a blind eye and let this abuse continue. CJ, Perdido Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 20, 2009 Bye Ned, you were the first elephant that I saw arrive, and you were my favorite, I`m glad that you are not suffering any more, sleep well my friend!. steve lyddon, bristol uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 20, 2009 Aw, honey. I wonder when my heart will heal since you left us. I am staying busy working for your brothers and sisters. I am making calls, sending emails and letters. I even went to a circus and took photographs of elephants who need our help to be free and live their lives in serenity, with others of their kind under the watchful and loving eyes of sanctuary folk. I know there must be a lesson to be learned from your death. I just wish I could figure that out. And I wish more than anything you were still here with us. But pain free, Neddie. And that just wasn't possible. So, I wake each day and miss you still. Auntie Deb, Sac, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 20, 2009 Thank you Carol Thank you for Ned. At least he had some peace. Thank you. May God Bless you and your crew. Joanna, Jacksonville, fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 19, 2009 Sweet Ned....I am saddened to hear of the terrible life that you were forced to live and I hope justice will be done to those who hurt you. I am glad, though, that you got to live out your last few months surrounded by people who truly cared for you and loved you.You will be greatly missed Ned. I love you! Jennifer Young, Rockwell,North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 19, 2009 Ned - still think of you every day and try to change things for other elephants - tomorrow is International Day of Action for Elephants in Zoos. Please, everyone, do something for Ned and spread the word. Ned was born into a zoo breeding program, but unwanted by zoos, he was torn from his mother as a baby and sold into circus slavery. Let's work so this never happens again...love to all Ned's friends... Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 19, 2009 I have been following Ned's progress since the start because I am from Florida where he was found in such a bad situation. I am devastated to have not been on here since early in May and be reading that he lost his battle for a long and painfree life. I can be grateful that the care and love showered on him in his last months by all his caretakers was a happy end to his sad and short life. Paula Odom, Clearwater, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 18, 2009 You were a very special boy Ned...and you deserved so much more than what you received in your short life. A life full of fear, sorrow and pain at the hands of money hungry scum who saw you and your brothers and sisters as nothing more than cash makers....I'm so sorry Neddie...you will always be loved and never forgotten and we will fight for all the others until they are free! Rose, Philadelphia PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 18, 2009 So sorry you were pulled from your home in Asia, held captive and didn't receive medical care soon enough... Rest in Peace Ned! Kathleen, Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 18, 2009 The only comfort I get from Ned's passing is in knowing that in the last seven months of his too short life he was able to experience the good side of humans and of life. He had freedom, food, care and love. He learned enjoyable things like playing with his tire, he even had a budding relationship with little Gracie. Ned shows us that years of mistreatment can not always be overcome no matter how much love and care is given. It is up to all of us to continue doing what we are doing, supporting this sanctuary, informing other people about it and ever so slowly changing the way people think about performing animals. Your story touched a lot of people Ned and I hope you are at peace someplace where there is plenty of hay to wear on your head! Vicky , Castleton, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 18, 2009 Still crying whenever I think of you or read your tributes. I will never forget you Nedly! Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 16, 2009 ned, when you meet the ancient herd, you will be able to tell them they're 2 leggeds who are decent. you received dignified care in the end, i wish it were this way in the beginning. thanks for the inspiration. mark fletcher, hazelton, bc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 16, 2009 Wanted to let you know Ned... that I am telling everyone I know not to attend the Circus that will be visiting the Mobile AL area this week. I tell them if you want to see the real life of a circus elephant just check out the video's on the Internet. My whole being weeps for the continued abuse of your elephant brothers and sisters by Ringling Bros and other circuses. I hope this mistreatment will end soon. I am anxiously awaiting the ruling from the Judge on Ringling Bros Elephant abuse trial that took place earlier this year. Ned, a ruling in favor of the Abused Elephants in this case is so important if we want to quickly end the mistreatment of your species. Let's hope this is the beginning of the end of elephants living a circus life. CJ, Perdido Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 16, 2009 Every morning at dawn, when I look at the elecam, I think of you, my Neddie, peaceful at last in the Tennessee earth, beneath the mist with the sunlight sparkling through it, and it breaks my heart. You didn't deserve the pain and suffering of the life you were given, sweetheart. I love you always. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 16, 2009 Oh, my big, sweet, funny Neddie! I am becoming comforted by your memory these days, honey, and not quite so empty. Doing what I can for your kind now, and all in your honor. I wonder if you can feel, even now, the power of your spirit on us all. You got a lot of folks going, Ned! I will miss you always, and never forget your most handsome face. We were all so very lucky to have been a part of your story at TES, and our gratitude is hard to put into words. Thank you, TES, for Nedley. Auntie Deb, Sac, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 15, 2009 Dearest Neddie our Precious Boy, You, who taught us so much about patience, and understanding. You, with your beautiful eyes- having seen atrocious things and still, they could sparkle. You, with the soul of an angel in spite of living through hell- and worse on -earth. Then you came to TES where you had love and fun and respect! You are soaring and free now, Neddie Boy. You are living the life with Bunny and all who went before you. It is we who are the losers because you have departed. You taught us much, Neddie Boy. We ask your forgiveness from the bottom of our hearts. We go on in your name and your honor Precious, Wonderful, funny Neddie Boy! Claudia and Brodie, Pleasanton, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 15, 2009 Precious Ned, How can I ever forget you. In my heart there will always be the memory of that handsome, inspirational, magnificent and most special elephant named Ned. I love you and miss you so much. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 15, 2009 Hey Ned What a wonderful elephant you were. I think of you everyday and still miss you so much. I can't believe it's been a month since you left us. Time goes by so fast but my heart still aches as it did that day you went to Heaven. The flowers I planted for you in my garden are thriving. They are so beautiful; just like you! Say hi to Bunny for me. Please continue to watch over us with your big beautiful eyes. Thanks for being such a special ele-friend. You will always be loved and never forgotten Nedster. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 15, 2009 Midnight Ned, One month since the news of your recovery at the Sanctuary stopped. I've read all of your messages since your arrival and laughed and cried over the memories. I loved reading anything about you. My hope now is that new elephants will come to the sanctuary because of your story and that none will arrive in your condition again. Bye Ned Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 12, 2009 RIP Ned. You will see Bunny. I love you both. Sparklingcolors, Charlotte, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 11, 2009 To Precious Neddie Boy, Now that I can read all of your tributes and look about the site again, I know you would somehow realize how much you meant to millions of us worldwide. Your gentle, understanding temperament, in spite of atrocious mishandling before coming to TES, makes most of us ashamed to be members of the same species as those who brutally mistreated you. You are the victor, Precious Neddie Boy. You, and your sisters and the doggies,have united us in our love for you. I have printed out all of your diary entries that your beloved caregivers shared with us and I will keep it safe with me as I continue to work to fight mistreatment on all levels. You are one of God's finest creatures; lucky Him, He has you back with Him. Namaste, wonderful, Precious Neddie Boy. Claudia and Brodie, Pleasanton, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 11, 2009 You are never out of our thoughts, Ned, and I hope it is giving everyone strength and comfort knowing you are our inspiration and our driving force as we all keep working towards freeing your brothers and sisters... Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 It's still hard to accept your premature death, Nedly. I have such a hard time seeing any creature in pain without falling to pieces inside and succumbing to tears. So many, including me, miss reading about you, hoping that the vets would find out what ailed you and cure it. There is a little capuchin monkey, at Jungle Friends Primate Sanctuary where I volunteer, who lost all of his hair and an eye in a fire. He holds on to the side of his habitat and just sits and smiles at me with his adorable little grin until my heart absolutely melts. Animals are so accepting and wise. Most telling of their wisdom is the fact that they don't kill for the sake of killing or for material gain. On a lighter note, Shirley is coming out of her heavy cloud of grief and is smiling again. Better still, Tarra is spending precious time with her and learning elephant wisdom from our grand dam. I feel certain that you are smiling and playing with your ancestors. Give Bunny a trunk touch for me. We love and miss you, Nedly. Caite York, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 I did not know you Ned, but you touched my soul. I am so sorry that so much of your life was spent in misery, but thankful that the angels here on earth, those at the Elephant Sanctuary, were there with you at the end. Sharon, New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 What a wonderful guy you were, Ned. We all miss you, however, we all carry you through the rainbow bridge with love and light. Sending you healing prayers of love as you journey onward. You light up the world even now, Dear One!! Jackie, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 The dreams of you continue to help me cope with your loss, dear. Each is such a blessing and gives me much strength to accomplish what is now most important to me. Your AD has become a ferocious advocate, Neddie! I believe that you would be proud, because it is all done in your memory. Your gorgeous face is before me with every letter that I write to help those of your kind who need it most. I believe that there will be new girls at the Sanctuary, and lives that we will all watch with wonder as they begin their journey to health in mind, body and heart. In your name, Nedley. I will not stop, ever. The echo of your soul stays with me, and I miss you every day. Auntie Deb, Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 Beautiful One! You have flown with the angels and are at peace, happy and healthy again! Please watch over all of the elephants in captivity anywhere on this earth! May your bright spirit bring them comfort! Namaste Dear Ned! Beatriz Contreras, Oshkosh, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 10, 2009 My beautiful boy: I can't stop crying for what was and what should have been. Your poor, tragic face and emaciated body will live within me always. I have channeled my grief and tears into anger at the abuse that has been suffered for so many years by circus elephants Tina, Queenie, and Jewel, who have received no help for the USDA. And that anger has turned into action, which I pray will eventually lead to their freedom and peace in Tennessee. I ask everyone who loves you so much to please write to the USDA, the Secretary of Agriculture, and to your legislators to gain the release of Tina, Jewel, and Queenie, so that the USDA's failure to protect our Ned will not continue into this agency's failure to protect these three precious souls. I love you, my Neddie, and always will. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 9, 2009 Our Darling Neddie Boy, We have not been able to read about you and Bunny (but especially you, our angel) until today. We think of you every day and our hearts break and our souls ache for you. Your WONDERFUL team of caregivers could not possibly have done more for you. They have also been very much on our minds and how they are managing right now. Clearly you are straight from God, as are they. I wonder how little Gracie is doing. I bet Auntie Deb is not the best either and we have been trying to contact her as what she wrote to you was sheer poetry. We will continue on being better people and doggies because of you, Precious, Precious Neddie Boy. Claudia and Brodie, Pleasanton, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 9, 2009 I cried looking at his emaciated body. The USDA should be ashamed at how long they overlooked his condition before they took action. Ned is yet another example for all the others suffering in zoos and circuses. Hopefully, his case will provoke them into action to retire the other elephants currently suffering. I wish the USDA would do what is right: remove abused elephants from their abusers and punish the abusers. I'm just glad Ned is no longer suffering. Michelle E. Rice, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 8, 2009 Dearest Ned, May the heavens above be granting you, a regal animal the best that heaven can offer. let the grass be so much sweeter and greener for you. May the water be cooler and sweet and clean. May your days be full of peace, love and joy. I know you that realize that many humans wish you could have has better life here on earth, and we have you daily in our love, thoughts and prayers daily. I love sweet Ned....I am so glad that you are no longer in pain...only peace. Love, Pommawolf, Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 8, 2009 Dear Ned, You are still a special force to many of us who wish to help your brothers and sisters. Happiness is a loving pachyderm with a head full of hay and and a big heart. All the best Dear Ned in your new life - we will forever remember you and what you mean to us. L Hall , Sacramento, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 8, 2009 Dear Ned, Though you had such a short time at TES, you at least had the best care in the world for your last 6 months. It's plain that you didn't have much of a chance because you were so terribly ill when you arrived. But, you at least got to feel love and caring. You chose a wonderful companion, in Bunny, to go across the Rainbow Bridge. You will suffer no more. I feel privileged to have known you and will miss you. A piece of me goes with you, dear boy. Namaste dear Ned! shirley walter, ocala, fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 7, 2009 I am so sorry your life was filled with pain. You suffered with dignity. I wish there had been more joy but it seemed you had some in your last months - playing catch, throwing hay, browsing outside. And now you are in a place without hurt. And here we remain, inspired by your example, to fight for abused elephants everywhere. You had a wonderful spirit, Ned, and we will miss you. Maraith, Boston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 7, 2009 WE MUST FIGHT FOR OUR ELEPHANTS! Speak up loud and clear on June 20th- International Day of Action for Elephants! DO IT FOR NED!! We must speak up for those who are voiceless! We must save as many elephant from a life of pain and suffering. Let's do it for our Ned! Ned, if you can hear me I LOVE YOU! The fight is on and we will win!!!! Put our Ned's picture on posters and signs and at least walk around your local zoo and the circus and say "FREE THEM AND SEND THEM TO A SANCTUARY!" Shari, San Antonio Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6, 2009 My name is olivia i am 9. i am sorry for ned. but i am glad he at least got saved. olivia, seymour, conneticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6, 2009 so sorry for what our "species" did to you Ned. Cant say more too upset and ashamed. Namaste Ned. Nicki Munro, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6, 2009 I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. I HOPE YOU HAVE FOUND LOVE, FREEDOM, PEACE AND PAIN-FREE LIFE FAR FROM HUMANS WHO MADE YOUR LIFE FULL OF SUFFERING. MAGDALENA SZASZOROWSKA, GREENFORD MIDDLESEX UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6, 2009 Dear Ned, I wish you were still here, but I am glad you got to spend the rest of your days in a sanctuary. I wish I could have known you. I hope that where ever you are now you are at peace. Kara Barnes, United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2009 Missing you, Nedly. Fly high and free. Kisses for Bunny. Caite York, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2009 Thinking of you today, my precious sweet boy. Neddie, I have dreamed that you wander above healthy and happy, playing and eating all that you want with no belly aches. I am sure that you are at peace and have no more fears and uncertain thoughts. Oh, honey-pie, I miss you so much. TES was a lot like where you are now, isn't it? Only with lots more friends and family to hold near. Always in my heart, Neddie. Auntie Deb, Sac CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2009 What a kind, gentle soul. I am sorry your time on Earth wasn't spent the way it should have been. I am happy though that your last months were filled with love and kindness. I know you are in a better place now. Sherri, New Fairfield, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2009 Dearest Ned, My heart is saddened by your passing, but there is a sense of trust of your timing. Parting from the people who you loved dearly not to mention that furry four legged friend of yours, inspired a quickening, an awakening for humanity to come to terms with the plight of your kind in captivity. My thoughts and my grieving heart is with you dearest one. May you have many more adventures in the great beyond. Love you always, Ned Kit Kathryn McGlynn, Santa Fe, New mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 5, 2009 You poor baby. Before you could get to The Elephant Sanctuary the humans in your life treated you so badly you were emaciated and your poor body suffered untold injuries so severe it was deprived of the ability to respond to even the excellent, intelligent, supremely-informed, loving care at The Elephant Sanctuary. I am so sorry you had but a few meager months at that heaven on earth as the sum total of decency in your life. You poor, innocent soul I cry for you. I am telling my wonderful doggie and cat, who have passed on before you, to find you and welcome you and show you around and help you feel happy in your new home. I never met you but I love you. Gloria, Long Island, New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 4, 2009 Ned, you touched me and my family's heart when we heard of your plight and we are simply heart broken that you have died. There was something special about you; do know that we loved you from afar and miss reading about you and seeing your photos. Laura Y. Brown, Newport News, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 4, 2009 Dear Ned, The circus is coming to town in Mobile next week. They are advertising big time on tv this week. Pensacola is close enough for people to want to attend the circus, so I'm putting a message with your web page address on the window of my suv so people can see what being in a circus did for your life. Small step, but a path to a brighter future for your friends in captivity. Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 3, 2009 Dear Ned, I'm so glad that you got to spend your last days w/ people who love you rest in peace & I hope that where ever you are their is lots of grass for you to eat & a great big lake that you can swim in forever. Lisa, King of prussia, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 3, 2009 Aww I just read a note how TES staff called you Nedly (Ele Notes)! RIP Nedly, we miss you...and will never forget your story. Jeannette, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 3, 2009 Dear Ned Hello my sweet ele-friend. Miss you so much!Just wanted to let you know that I planted some special flowers for you and Bunny in my garden. They are thriving because I know that you are watching over them. I think of you everyday especially when I am watering the garden. You are a very special angel in Heaven. Tell Bunny I miss her as well okay. I will never forget you and I will always love you Nedster! Keep watching over us with your big beautiful eyes. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 3, 2009 Dear Ned, Thank you for your years of suffering so that we may get to know you, even if only for a short time. You are an inspiration; your legacy a step toward change. Though you may not know it, your successes are many--the first was to unite the extraordinary efforts of the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee and the Performing Animal Welfare Society in California lovingly on your behalf--one providing expert hospital care and the other offering a permanent home, even though you were too frail to move. We understand why you had to leave. While your tall, feeble body haunts our minds, the photo of your smiling face with your handsome hay-hat helps us to cope with your loss. Thank you for the generosity of the Elephant Sanctuary--through their eyes and writings, we felt hope and saw love. Via the "Ned Tributes" section, the Sanctuary allowed us to share our love, fear, outrage, sadness, and hope. We came to know you, to be with you, while honoring your privacy and dignity. As you see Ned, we didn't have to physically meet you to love you. To Auntie Deb: in one entry, you asked what will do every day now that Ned is gone? Your daily eloquent message of gratefulness, hopefulness and healing energy have been treasured. You captured my feelings and shared your heart. As our tears for Ned slowly begin to dry, I hope you continue to use your amazing writing gift to help bring other solitary zoo or abused circus elephants to Sanctuary. Lucy needs you now, as does Lucky, and Tina/Jewel/Queenie, and what about poor 2-year old Scotty who seems destined for the misery Ned faced in circus life? We hope we haven't heard the last of you Auntie Deb, we have much left to do in Ned's Honor. Namaste dear Ned. Rochelle, Romeo, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 I know you are in a better place, and you had a wonderful place to be in the final months of your life. You were a special boy, and I know God has you in his embrace. Abby Graham, fort Wa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 Ah, Ned. Sweetest boy, I have begun to put my grief into doing more for your sisters and brothers who still live in horrendous conditions worldwide. I am doing this in your honor, sweetie. You somehow have had the power to move mountains of feelings into action. I still cannot watch your videos, honey, but that will come in time. I still think about you every....single....day. Peace to your lovely and gentle soul, my most precious angel. Auntie Deb, Sac, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 I feel so sad about you having a long term illness. I hope your spirit is watching over all the other elephants that are living and aren't living too!!!!! macy, in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 You had such a tragic short life, words can't express how angry it makes me feel to think of what you've been through in your short years. I'm so pleased you at least got to know love, kindness, patience and freedom of choice before you had to leave us. A huge thank you to the Elephant Sanctuary for being there for you, to give you the love and compassion you should have never been missing. My you be free and wild once more in your passing. In you're honor, I have named a recent arrival to our household after you. Although this rescued critter is very much smaller than you, and thankfully his story nowhere as tragic, I will think of you everytime I see him now. If nothing else can be gained from your tragic life, let it be that you've raised awareness of the horrors that your kind face Be at peace always, sweet boy xx Rebecca , England, UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 Ned...what a guy...you suffered so much. So glad you had such caring people surrounding you to live out your last days. So sorry for your pain...go with Bunny and meet the others. Rest in peace and enjoy Heaven pain free...we will miss you and never forget you and what you went through. Stacey, Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 Dear Ned, I wrote to my state representatives on behalf of all our nation's captive elephants. Maybe something good can come out of your tragic life and untimely death. Rest in peace dear Ned. Karen, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 Dear Ned, I am so sorry for your suffering. It's shocking finding out how they treated you before you finally got to TES. May you rest in peace now... G.J. Moed, Curacao, Netherlands Antilles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2, 2009 Dear Ned, I am so glad that you knew a better life before God took you home to live with him. May you rest in peace with lots of your elephant friends. There is no better place than heaven. You will have all the freedom and everything that you will ever need. God bless you. Love Pearl.xxxx Pearl Millard, United Kingdom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope you know how much you were loved. xoxoxo Jen, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 Dear Ned, I read through some of your tributes and they are so beautiful. A couple of the tributes mentioned that we should all write our representatives to have Queenie, Tina and Jewell confiscated from their owner, in your honor. So I just went to my Senator's web page and left a message about the girls' needing to be confiscated and sent to TES or PAWS. I hope it helps. Still miss you lots, Ned. Maggie, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 Ned: Thanks for sharing your short time with us. You will not be forgotten and will serve as a reminder that while we can no longer he you, there are others that still need help. May your afterlife be filled with sunshine and tasty treats. Mike King, Louisville, Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 Trying to find the words to express my sorrow over the loss of our special Ned has been a struggle. If love alone was all it took to heal his thin and pain filled body, he would now be the mighty bull he was always meant to be. All of us who checked on him every day, who sent prayers heavenward to heal him, who donated money for special foods to tempt him to eat, we would have loved him to good health. His life was such a sad story, a journey through darkness with the only light appearing at the end. Thank you, Ned. And thank you, TES. Ruth Pullen, Flint, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 Only recently heard about your story. It's not fair the way most of your life turned out, but I'm glad you were rescued just in time to appreciate your last months with people that really loved and cared about you. RIP Ned. Andrew, United Kingdom, London . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1, 2009 The greatest tribute we can give to Ned is to take immediate action, in his name, to help save Jewel, Tina, and Queenie. LET THIS BE HIS LEGACY TO THE WORLD! Vera, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 31, 2009 Dear Ned Still missing you so much my friend. Wish you could have been with us much longer but I'm glad that you are in heaven now. Keep watching over us with your big beautiful eyes. Tell Bunny we miss her as well. These past two weeks without the two of you have been very sad but I'm grateful that you both are truly free now. Love you always Nedster! Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 31, 2009 Dear Ned, This is the last day of the month I thought would be so perfect for you. I hope it is more than perfect for you now. You have become the "Poster Elephant" around the world from the looks of your mail. In the meantime, I've named two Doves who have gardened with me for years Bunny & Ned. It has given me comfort to talk to them this month. Their colors remind me of you and Bunny so much. Your huge fan club is learning to cope, each in their own way. Miss you soooo much!! Anne, Pensacola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 31, 2009 In the name of all that Ned suffered so terribly in his poor, sad life: All of us many hundreds of Nedheads must write to the USDA that they must do something immediately so that Queenie, Tina, and Jewel do not suffer his same tragic fate. As Meg stated, the USDA is aware of what they have been suffering, as the USDA was aware a year ago of the horrible life Ned was going through, and they did nothing to save him until last November. Please go to the website of In Defense of Animals - where they have posted articles that will tell you the horrendous condition of Tina, Queene, and Jewel, and where they have posted contact information for the USDA/Secretary of Agriculture. Just a short note from so many of us who loved Neddie would do so much toward getting these three precious souls to Tennessee. IN NED'S NAME - SO THAT HE WILL NOT HAVE LIVED AND DIED IN VAIN. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 31, 2009 Wonderful Ned! Even though your time here was short, you will spend a beautiful eternity in Heaven, with all your friends. I plan to be among them some day! Sandy, Escanaba, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 Ned, I am so sorry for what you suffered throughout your life, at the hands of the very species who should have cared for you and shown you nothing but love and mercy. I am thankful for the humans who were able to give you the care and love you always deserved, in your final months of freedom. You are lovely, loved and not forgotten. S. Austin, Montreal, QC, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 NEDDY, you had to pay the price with your life. I will speak up for you and all elephant forever! International Day of Action for Elephants is June 20th. Please everyone, for our Neddy, speak out and let Ned hear us up in heaven! We will help free all elephants in zoo's and circuses!!! Shari, San Antonio,Tx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 Dear Sweet Ned, I apologize on behalf of the human race for the suffering and neglect. I thank the Elephant sanctuary that gave so much love and care to you during the last months of your life. Rest in peace sweet giant. Eureka Morrison, Noordhoek, South Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 Ned, May your soul rest in peace. You will be greatly missed. Krista Williamson, Brooksville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 Please, everyone who cares about what happened to Ned, please help to free Queenie, Tina and Jewel from a similar life of torture and abuse in the circus. Write to congressmen and senators urging them to put pressure on the USDA to act to save these three ladies from any more suffering - they are living lives of similar stress and misery and losing weight just like Ned. Please help free them - it's been over two years since the USDA first investigated their conditions. How much longer must they wait before action is taken? Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 May Ned rest in Peace n Elephant Heaven, I'm so grateful to the wonderful caregivers vets and all the staff of the Ele sanctuary, I'm sure Ned was ever so grateful to be there and being treated with love respect and dignity, God Bless you All Rest Ned, rest well, Rita Stevenson, Mattawa Ontario Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 To Darling Ned, although your time at the sanctuary was short, I am positive you are in a far better place. May your story be an inspiration to releasing all circus animals from this terrible fate. Marian Banaghan, Sydney, Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30, 2009 We didn't rescue you in time, dear Ned. You will always be loved and never forgotten. Marcy M., Northern California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Never to be forgotten again. Rest in peace Ned. Lori VanEssen, Green Bay, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Oh what majestic animals are these beautiful animals, I have ridden many elephants bareback in different countries and they are so intelligent and truly an inspiration to mankind, it is so sad that humans can treat them so shocking. I was so sad to read his plight today. I,m sure he will be much happier in elephant heaven with his mates. God bless NED Jennie, Queensland. Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Im sorry you suffered so much before you found love & kindness. Rest in peace. God bless. Pat, London, England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 I still cry every day for you Ned, especially as I read all the tributes. I'm still so sad and angry at how you suffered. I hope you somehow know how much love you had coming your way after we all found out about you. Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Precious boy, Neddie, I still find myself in a bit of shock that you are not among us; not doing something silly to amaze us, not gracing our lives with that beautiful countenance that is Neddie. Two weeks and I am crying again! What a powerful impact you had in the months you found sanctuary. Still amazing in spirit! Miss you so very much, dear. But I am beginning to feel more peace that you now are far removed from your pain and suffering. I would not have wanted that for another second. Your Auntie Deb, Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 We are sad that you had such a hard time but you are in heaven where there is no suffering. You have left a place in our hearts at Brevard Middle School, especially in ISS where some of the kids have had a hard time in their lives too. The kids and I have kept up with your progress and you have touched all of us. There is sure to be a tire and toys to toss in Heaven. We are happy you were able to experience the love, freedom and care at the Sanctuary! They will be blessed for the good they do in putting a stop to suffering. Vera and 'The Kids", Brevard, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Precious Ned, There's not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. I can't believe you've been gone for two weeks already. I miss you so much. My heart still hurts so much for you Ned and my grief is sometimes overwhelming. I love you my special, handsome ele-angel. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 29, 2009 Dearest Ned - I am so grateful for people like these who made your last days happier than your previous years - I weep! I have not visited animal circuses for decades because of the cruelty of human beings! God help us - we need it! Jeannette Gravett, Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear, sweet Ned, While my heart breaks when I think of the suffering you endured for so long, I take comfort in the fact that you were surrounded by loving, caring people near the end of your life. May the happiness you experienced at the Sanctuary continue in your new life! You are loved and missed and will never be forgotten. Louise Auray-Pepin, Quebec, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 I feel saddened by the help that arrived too late for Ned. I will never understand how people can exploit any animal to please humans sick mind of entertainment. I want to say thank you to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee for trying so hard to save Ned's sad live. May he went to Rainbow Bridge and lives a happy live now. Sincerely, Jennifer Eady Jennifer Eady, Charleston SC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Darling Ned, Run free now, with all the other Angels in your family. I'm glad you touched so many hearts and that you were with one that loved you at the end of your life. I will not forget you and NEVER forget the elephants of the world. Sleep softly now. ~~hugs all around you~~ Mandi T. MANDI, SAN JOSE, CA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear Ned, I know your life had meaning because you touched so many hearts and promoted awareness of the cruelty elephants are subjected to by so called "civilized" people. I am happy you had comfort and love in your final days. I am sure you are now enjoying all that heaven provides, and are with your mum and dad again. We love you! Diane Baynes, Ottawa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Sweet Sleep Baby, I will stay away from zoos and do all I can to help your brothers and sisters. xo Naomi Grigg, Nova Scotia, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 God Bless You, Ned! Thank you for brightening my life. I am so happy that you were surrounded by those who love you most at the Sanctuary. Lorie Jones, Ethridge, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 I'm glad that you found the love you deserved. I really hope that from whatever you are, help other beautiful elephants like you, so they have the chance of a better life. Paula, Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear Darling Ned, It saddens me that you did not have longer in your new and loving home...but you ended your days surrounded by people that loved and cared for you. Goddess Bless you and when you return to us reincarnated you will be a strong healthy Elephant that is well loved and looked after! I love you NedX Kat Hall, Islington, london, England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Elephants are amazing animals who deserve respect and proper care. Thank you Elephant Sanctuary for caring for Ned in his final days. He deserved it. Janet, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, I am so sorry you had such a rough life. But I thank God for you; you were such a go-getter right until the very end. Now you're at Rainbow Bridge healthier than you've ever been and playing with your elephant friends, reunited with your mama and daddy! You meant the world to me because I love elephants so much. Love You. Barb Knight, Candler, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 THANK ALL OF YOU AT THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY FOR GIVING NED PROBABLY THE ONLY HAPPY DAYS OF HIS LIFE. I WAS IN TEARS WHEN I READ ABOUT YOU NED. I CANNOT COMPREHEND WHY THERE AREN'T MORE STRINGENT LAWS PROTECTING THESE BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS. I AND MY ENTIRE FAMILY, GRANDCHILDREN INCLUDED, REFUSE TO ATTEND ANY CIRCUS. I TRULY APPRECIATE WHAT YOU DO TO MAKE ELEPHANTS LIKE NED WELL TAKEN CARE OF. I CANNOT SEND A GIFT RIGHT NOW BUT I WILL BECAUSE OF YOU NED. , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 I am so disgusted that humans are so cruel to such wonderful animals such as you, Ned. What a terrible way to exist. It is heart-breaking to think of the other animals that are being treated the way you were. It's about time that humans woke up and realized the pain and suffering they are causing. So sad your real "life" was so short-lived, but so glad that you were able to see the other side of us humans - the ones who care. R.I.P. Ned XX Wendy Broad, Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Love you Ned. B at peace now. Natalie, Toronto, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 What a special creature Ned must have been! We should all be so grateful to this sanctuary and it's helpers for being so amazing and kind to these majestic beings. I will be sure to visit and donate when i'm in that area, and when i get more money. Let's keep are bigger friends protected, and give them our love. You will be missed greatly Ned! Mandy Hogge, Bitburg, Germany (from Utah) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear Ned, I never met you but I am so glad that I got to see your video while you were at your new home. The people there are the best--so kind and so considerate of every resident's needs. I'm sure you immediately felt special and very loved! I truly wish you could have stayed so much longer. You would have come to love and enjoy the appreciation and respect everyone had for you. I hope you savored it a little bit! Ned, I say this for all of my species--Please forgive us for being so callous, arrogant, and without a genuine appreciation for all life. There are far too many of us who have lost, or never connected with, their inner spirit--their humanness that truly makes them able to care for and love all living beings. I wish you could have met everyone who cared so deeply about you. Who wrote and called and told everyone about your plight. They loved you, Ned. They were different. We rejoice now that you have transitioned to "spirit" and have been reunited with all of your brothers and sisters who've gone on before you. There is only peace and love and light for you now, Ned. Love to you, Beautiful Boy! We will never forget you and hope to become one in spirit with you again some day! S. L.Trout, Sacramento, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Sweet dreams and wonderful life to you now, Ned. No more pain. Love you Pat Barnes, Bartlett, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Still missing you so much Ned. Keep watching over us okay buddy. Love you! Monica, Waterloo, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Hello Ned, You are in heaven and free now. No more suffering. Go your own way and be happy at last. Lahaye, Juan-les-pins, France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 I'm so glad Ned was able to be with people who cared for him. I hope his former owner, abuser, was charged or something. It would be a shame if he got away with the abuse. Patricia Smith, Tampa, Fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, the cruel and horrible suffering you must have endured breaks my heart. I watched your arrival at the sanctuary, with joy, for I knew you were in a wonderful place, with wonderful caring people. I had high hopes for you, but no one knew how sick you really were. I am so glad you spent your last days here, with these wonderful care givers, who give with all their hearts. Ned, you gave your all in your last days at the sanctuary, with encouragement and love from your care givers. I know they grieve for you, as I do. You made a special place in my heart, I will never forget you. I will strive to protect Elephants from zoos, and the circus. I will strive to do my part, so that Elephants like you can be free to live as they should. You're over the rainbow bridge Ned, and at peace. You can run and play and eat all you want. No more pain or suffering. Bless you Ned, and Bless the Elephant Sanctuary in T. N. and Bless the care givers, who give their hearts to majestic and beautiful and intelligent animals like you Ned. There are good people left in the world. Darci Beckelhimer, Kansas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, You remind me of a book I read called "Modoc" about a wonderful elephant friend. I am happy you found love and compassion. Watch out for us! Jerrilyn Swersky, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 So glad that Ned reached the sanctuary where he had love & was able to roam and investigate something other than a horrible circus life. Rest well Ned. Barbara M Butler, United Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear sweet intelligent animal, im so sorry for what you went through. I will never understand why some humans are so cruel to any animal, and im ashamed to be of the same species as them. You will always be loved and remembered by the compassionate ones that do care. Hope life is good beyond the bridge, I hope its peaceful and painfree and fun with all the others went before...lots of love to you always. Isobel, Glasgow, Scotland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, I am so sorry that you were only able to get a taste of freedom and what life should have been for you. You never deserved to have to suffer the way they made you live. I will petition for the rest of the elephants left that going through what you did. michele blevins, albuquerque, new mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, I have been following your progress since your arrival... and I am so deeply saddened that you didn't make it. I'm saddened that you lived a life of pain but thankful that those wonderful people at TES were able to make your last months on this earth more pleasurable than the years before and that you were able to finally be yourself. You will be missed dearly. TES - I don't know how you guys do it. To do what you do with whole-hearted love and then to lose another good one... I would be shattered and in tears always. I'm happy that you all have made these elephants, past and present, able to find some comfort and love. I am absolutely in love with elephants and to see another one pass.....sigh. At a loss for words. Keep up the great work. Ned - I hope that you are finally at peace and can now join your sisters in heaven. Namaste. Lindsay Flynn, Toronto, Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear sweet Ned, My heart aches for the miserable life you were made to endure here on this earth. Your captors do not deserve your forgiveness. May you now enjoy eternity in peace and serenity in that giant jungle in the sky where there is no suffering. You are loved. Judi Paul, Chocorua, NH, USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Rest In Peace dear Ned. It is very sad to hear that many animals suffer because of abuses committed by humans. I encourage everyone to never go to circuses where there are animals as part of their shows. On the other hand, I feel happy that you could spend your last moments in a beautiful place, the kind of place you deserved. I am sure that now you are in heaven, with all the good animals and good people that were once in this world. Hector Meneses, Lima, Peru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned Has Tributes From All Over the World --- As I was posting up tributes for Ned this morning (the 28th), I was just amazed at how many people from all over the world have been impacted by his life, struggles, and his final place of refuge at The Elephant Sanctuary. These are just from today! Kentucky Singapore Germany Connecticut England Pennsylvania France Brazil California Tennessee Australia Mexico Kansas Canada New Hampshire Peru New Mexico Scotland Kansas Florida North Carolina Carolyn, Brentwood, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned:Dearly Missed and wont be forgotten! For all those individuals who are cruel to animals of all kinds: they one day will have to meet their maker and pay the price for their disgusting behaviors May they suffer 10 fold for what they've done! You should Cherish Gods Creatures Because Mankind does not respect other species. Shame on those who are cruel! B. Kangasaho, tbay, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Bless you Ned. I hope you're having a wonderful time in elephant heaven. Lynette Ridder, Concord CA 94521 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Brian Narelle, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, I'm so very happy that you spend the last few months of your place in a place where you knew love, comfort, care, and security. You will always be remembered. And you will also remain forever in our hearts. God bless and take care. Olga Stewart, Hinton, Alberta, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Oh Ned. I wish I could leave a beautiful tribute to let you know how much you meant to me, but I am still too upset. Tears flow each time I hear your name. You will always be my inspiration to keep fighting for those who have no voice. I am so sorry we failed you, Ned. I take comfort in the knowledge your spirit has been set free of that painful body. You have left an imprint on my heart. Forever a NedHead, Los Angeles, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Hi, my name is Alessandro C. A. Varandas, i'm from Rio de Janeiro/Brazil, i'm 45 years old. I became much unhappy with the NED deth, he was a very young elephant. I hope that this 6 month of freedom made his short life wonderfull. The world needs more people like THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY members. Thanks to made NED life's end more pleasurely. Here in Brazil i'm begining a new stage in my life. In the rest of my life i will work to protect and preserve the green and animals life. Here in Brazil many states prohibit animals in circus, but i will fight to be this prohibition in all states in Brazil. Alessandro C. A. Varandas, Rio de Janeiro - RJ / Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Rest in peace Ned, you deserve it. You are free now. No one will never hurt you any more. I will always keep you in my heart. Cecile Charbaut, Paris, France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 At least he had a wonderful few months at the sanctuary doing all the things elephants should be doing naturally. I thank the sanctuary from the bottom of my heart for all they did for him. I hope the kind suffering Ned went through is ended soon, with proper legislation and enforcement. Helen Dighton, UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned - I'm glad you spent your final months with loving caretakers. Your gentle soul is now at the Rainbow Bridge. My condolences to the wonderful folks and caretakers at TES. Thank you for making the world a better place for animals. Laraine & Company, Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dear Ned I feel immense sadness at the lack of care and attention you received in your life. I am sorry that you were not loved and looked after as you should have been. I am glad that in your last few months you were given affection and tenderness and that you knew what it was to have a full belly. You will always remain in my thoughts and I wish you an eternity of peace and happiness ! Forever a friend, Kirsten Kirsten Williams, England, UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 My sweet beautiful Neddie: I still can't believe you are gone. I still cry for the pain you suffered for so long and for how hard you tried to live. My prayers now are that you will not have lived and died in vain, and that our efforts are now directed at saving Tina, Queenie, and Jewel from their circus lives, so they can be brought to Tennessee. I miss you, my Neddie, and love you so very much. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Dearest Ned, I am sorry you could not stay at the Sanctuary longer, you majestic angel, you have touched my heart more than words can say. I will never forget you. Rest in peace, gentle giant. Katrin Finsterbusch, Chemnitz, Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 Ned, the news of your passing brought tears to my eyes, rest in peace :( Nett, Singapore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 We meet a lot of people and animals along the way that mean more to us then any words can say. Sometimes they do have to leave us but they are never forgotten. Especially the real goofy time that make you want to laugh and cry in the same moment. Like seeing the sun for the first time, in days of overcast. I loved reading about Ned and I'm happy he spent his last days like an elephant! Your the greatest Ned! P.S I hope heaven has lots of toys and several water troughs for you to enjoy! Jessica, Louisville, Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28, 2009 dear Ned, you are such an example of what is the best and worst in human nature..please know how sorry i am for the suffering you have endured... i thank God that your final days were with kind and loving people... i have seen the wonderful work of the Elephant Sanctuary on tv programs in the past and am so glad that they continue to do their best to help other unfortunate creatures like yourself... Rest in Peace dear Ned... Linda Wheeldon, Toronto, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Dear sweet Ned, my heart still breaks for you. I am grateful for the wonderful care you knew at the end of your life but wish it could have been for longer or that you had never even known the life of a captive elephant. I am humbled by the compassion the caregivers at TES bestowed upon you and the grace with which you received it. You are a lesson in forgiveness and hope. May peace and joy always be with you beautiful boy. Janice, Oregon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Dearest Ned, Please forgive human beings for not taking better care of you and animal kind. It breaks my heart but I keep hope for your 'sisters and brothers' to someday find the same kindness and compassion at the Elephant Sanctuary. Rest in peace, gentle giant. Sandy, Laguna Beach, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 You deserved better Ned. I'm glad your last days were spent as they should have been your whole existence, with loving caretakers, freedom, and nutritious diet. No human has the right to exploit and treat animals poorly, large or small. Rest in peace dear Ned. Karen D, Roseville, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Dearest Ned, I am sorry you could not stay at the Sanctuary longer. I am ashamed to be human after seeing how emaciated you were under a human's care. You now feel no pain and I am happy for you. Rest In Peace Dear Ned. Your friend, Karen Wilson, Upper Lake California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Ned's death is particularly troublesome. The anguish that poor animal had to endure for most of his life absolutely infuriates me. His young life has ended and I sincerely doubt the previous owner(s) have even stopped to give him a second thought. When will the world ever recognize that the only true sanctuary an elephant longs for is that comfort and love found in his/her herd family? I am most grateful that the Elephant Sanctuary gave him those precious last moments wrapped in love and tender-loving care. Ned, your light is gone-and the world was too blind to see it. Beverly, Simpsonville, SC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Dearest Ned,Sweet Dreams little boy...we will always love you. The Blu'AbbeyCat Family Dolores McDanil & Family, Pittsburgh, PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Poor Ned. Your life ended too soon but at least you were able to spend you last few months in the loving caring hands of The Elephant Sanctuary. Hopefully your plight will reach many and bring awareness to the plight of captive elephants. The Elephant Sanctuary. Bless your hearts for taking care of Ned in his final months and all of the other rescued elephants whom you have saved and given wonderful lives. Carolyn L. Distel, Clarkston, MI, USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 what a blessing your all-too-brief sanctuary time, beautiful Ned. May you carry into eternity the love, compassion, and respect that enlightened beings were able only briefly to show you and may the pain wash away. We are the most peculiar of species which expresses the worst of people and the best of humankind. What this, your path - to see the full spectrum? Please forgive us, dear Ned. May your eternal spirit know the loving abundance in the grief we here collectively share at your passing? I feel you shine in the ether, pain-free, abiding in purity. Deepest of Love, Paula, Wyoming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 I can't believe you're gone, Ned. You just got there. You had a few months of love and affection, but it should have been years, many years. You deserved many more years of chasing the dogs, and playing with the tire, and the grassy mat on your head seems a trademark. Oh, Ned, you will be missed so very much. Vicki Burnett, Canton MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 27, 2009 Well NED it was a tough road that you were put on 21 years ago. But in the end you were found by some kind humans that made your last days as pleasant as they could. Take care. Bob, SE Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 When you are sorrowful look into your heart and you shall see that you are weeping for that which has been your delight ~ Kahlil Gibran Still missing you, my sweet, delightful boy. Auntie Deb, Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Ned - It's so heartbreaking that your medical condition was not reversible after you finally made it to sanctuary. I'm sure your eternity in heaven will be wonderful as opposed to the eternity that awaits those who caused your suffering. Nick, Marietta, GA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 I'm so sorry that he died but he is at peace finally. I'm just really angry that so many Elephants are left to suffer when they could be at the Sanctuary enjoying the last few years of their lives. God Bless Ned. Alison, Warwickshire, England, UK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Dear Ned My heart still aches for you my sweet friend. I really wish you had stayed with us a lot longer. Words cannot express how much I miss you. I had never seen such beautiful eyes in my whole life until I saw yours. Your life on earth was short but you are now in heaven for eternity. I know I will see you again Nedster! You will be deeply missed and loved always and forever. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Ned, such a majestic angel, you have touched my heart more than words can say. I will never forget you. Dawn, Dartmouth MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Ahh Ned, Your days here are over and you can rest now. Heave a big sigh and know we loved you. I am so sorry your life was not sweeter. May it be a bowl of cherries where you are now. Love from California. J Carpenter, Pacific Grove California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Ned Miss you so much buddy. I wish you could have stayed here with us much longer; I know it was time for you to go to heaven. Even though you are in a better place doesn't make my heart hurt any less. You were a majestic creature and I will never forget your big beautiful eyes. Love you always and forever. Manjula, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 I followed your journey with the sanctuary from the very beginning. I was with you in spirit through all your ups and downs; your bad times and playful times. My heart broke and the tears fell when you left us. May God bless you, Ned, and may you now find the pain-free peace that always eluded you here on earth. I love you. Sherrie Shown, Dothan, AL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 How can a human being inflict such horrible crimes upon as statuesque an animal as the elephant? What could possibly be going through one's mind? To witness the emaciated body of Ned, brings tears to my eyes. So honorable is The Elephant Sanctuary to have taken Ned from the depths of hell and brought him to the heavens of the Sanctuary and all the it had to offer to him. Like so many others that have gone before him, we do not know why Ned was able to enjoy his freedom for only a short period of time, but we somehow find comfort in knowing that he took his last breath surrounded by those, human beings and fellow animal family, that truly cared and loved him. Ned, may you join your Sanctuary family that has gone before you enjoying the rolling hills, green grasses, hay stacks and mudding ponds of what is beyond the rainbow. You brought tears to my eyes as you exited the trailer into the Sanctuary, and you continue to bring tears to my eyes as you exit the Sanctuary into the heavens of God, and like so many animals that have left me, your presence was a gift...your memory a treasure. Go in peace beloved Ned. AnnaMarie , Baltimore, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Ned you were such a a great looking elephant! Sooo cute!!! I'm so happy for you that you ended up at the Sanctuary. Breaks my heart what was done to you before that. It shouldn't have ever happened. Maybe you came too late to the Sanctuary but you had such awesome care givers and people who deeply cared about you! That was so amazing. Namaste dear Ned! Wendy, Menomonee Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 Oh Ned, I am so sorry, for us, that you have left us on this earth, but for you, you are free now, sweet boy, sweet and beautiful Ned. May your spirit fly, soar and be free from this frustrating, difficult life you have experienced, and may you be able to do all that you ever wanted in the next. Ned, look over your life in spirit, learn and forgive those if you can, who had mistreated you so in this life, and we will see you again next time around. And dear Ned, remember those who loved you so much during your last months on this earth. We love you so much, still do, and I hope to see you very soon in spirit. May I journey to you in spirit. Donna, Mt. Juliet, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 26, 2009 ned............ i don't have any human words to describe the ache in my heart for what you had to live through at the hands of some humans. there are no words for the sorrow i feel for your life and now for your death just when you finally found humans that would love and cherish you. you deserved so much more...... there just are no words beautiful boy. i so wanted to watch the elecam some day and see you playing. you were loved by so many, but we got to you too late. i love you ned, rest easy now, with no pain. barb matthiss, cleveland ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Sweet Ned, Rest in peace my friend. I had so hoped you would recover in the peace and care that is the Sanctuary, but it was not to be. much love Nikki, canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Dearest sweet Ned, You are an angel and god is wrapping his loving arms gently around you forever. Rest in peace beautiful boy. You were blessed with much love at the sanctuary.I'm so glad you were there with people who truly cared about you. Erica Richter, Miami Shores,FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 I miss you still, my sweet innocent boy. I miss your "fan club" checking up on you every day but look--they are still here! What a phenomenon. I think it is the pure unquestioning way that you and other animals go with whatever path you are on...and humans can be so very cruel and reckless with that innocence. That is truly sad for all of us. It makes me realize that we aren't all so very evolved as we think we are. EXCEPT for TES and the wonderful supporters out there. Love you all. Ginny, WA State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Sweet little darling Ned....I love the picture with the hay on top of your precious head. When I learned of your death my heart broke-------because of all the suffering and pain you endured in your short life. Once again the evils of this world are to blame. One consolation is in knowing that these injustices will be brought before the Higher Power and the other is in knowing that you were surrounded by angel caretakers at TES. Play and eat in paradise 'til you hearts content...... I love you. sherry crowder, shelby, north carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 É uma pena q só tenham lembrado de vc, querido, após a sua morte....q ela n seja em vão! Monica, Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Rest in peace Ned! We will miss you so... Namaste Andrea und Walti, Switzerland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Dear Ned, In your honor I wrote a note to "Letter to the Editor" a feature offered by the local newspaper, where people can express their views, and I wrote a scathing one about how Circus's mistreat their Elephants and other animals and if people would STOP going to the circus we could end their suffering. Till the day that I die, I will continue to speak out on the behalf of all captive Elephants. This abuse must stop. CM, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Ned.....In your honor I have contacted usda, my congressman, senator and lt gov about the abuse and neglect of Tina, Queenie and Jewel..they are so pitiful and living in the bowels of hell as our Ned was so instead of sitting here stunned and in shock let's take some action to get these girls out of bondage before they are too far gone to experience something besides the abuse they live with day in day out year after year...a piece of my heart will always be with you Ned.... donna, kingsport tn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Ned, Still can't believe that you are no longer here. I can't even express how much I miss you. You were a very special elephant. So glad that you are in a better place. Thanks for blessing my life. You will never be forgotten my sweet friend. Finnola, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2009 Dear sweet Ned, My heart went out to you when I read your story. How very sad that you lived so long in such a terrible state, but I thank God that the Elephant Sanctuary cared for you for the short period of time before you died. You should have lived a long, happy life; you died so young. Bless you sweet boy, and may your life at Rainbow Bridge be the most glorious life you can imagine. So much love, peace, happiness, and eternally free of any physical ailments. Love to you Ned along with big kisses and hugs. Janice Giampaoli, Minnetonka, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Ned made it so easy to say the word "love". There was something in his eyes, something profound. Even a 7 year old, my niece Erica (and her brothers), proclaimed their immediate love for him, so much so that he was in our constant thoughts during those early days. We also talked about Shirley and Jenny, Sissy's tire, Billie's bracelet, Missy not being able to walk up the hill, Tarra's dog Bella, Queenie's squeaks, and Bunny's ball, and recently "Bunny doo" (thank you Evansville people!), and we drew pictures of Ned, wrote poems, saved our pennies and sent messages of love and hope. After Bunny died, we were convinced she took Neddie with her - her heart was just too big to leave him behind (the kids wrote a story about it). I hope you all at the Sanctuary realize that your work has touched many people and has possibly created a new generation that will set all captive elephants free. So, get ready! In 20 years or so, 100 elephants may be arriving at your gates!! Thank you for everything you do and for sharing their stories with us. Marie L, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 I am deeply saddened to hear of Ned's passing...may he find the Peace in Heaven that he came to know for a short time at The Elephant Sanctuary. I hope Ned's story (and the story of all of the "girls") will inspire everyone to continue their efforts to release all animals from Circuses and Zoos. This cruel practice has no place in and enlightened world. May your spirit roam free...We will miss you. Lisa, Camden, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 We forget when we see all the beautiful pastures, ponds and woodlands that whoever comes to enjoy them is not in perfect health in mind or body. However with the care and love that they receive at TES it all seems worth it, if we only can have them for a little while. No more elephants in Zoos and Circuses PLEASE you people out there listen. Ned it was wonderful knowing you if only for a very short time. Barbara , Nashua, New Hampshire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Ned, I'm so sorry for your past life of hatred and pain from the hands of man, your body gave out. Like Lota. I'm so happy you had a chance to be free and be yourself. that you didn't suffer and pass, being forced to perform in a circus, or being chained up. You are free of all pain. And none of this could of happened if it had not been for Carol and her staff and endless hours of saving you and your kind. their tireless efforts make them true heroes but you stole the show at the sanctuary, so Ned, thank you for being you. I miss you each day I visit the web . I know you and Bunny will walk beside one another into each days sunset. it was all possible through Carol. I love you and Bunny, rest in peace. God will take care of you...........I promise........... rhonda woods, wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 I prayed for your recovery, and now I wish you utmost peace in Elephant Heaven. You will never be forgotten and in your spirit we will keep fighting for getting elephants out of the entertainment industry. So glad you could spent the final days of your life at the sanctuary with its wonderful caretakers - human and non-human. Many Blessings Elke Riesterer, Santa Cruz, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Neddy, you sweet sweet boy! I mourn your passing and yet celebrate it, too. Mourn because of all of our guilt for you being in the condition you were in, and never having known the joy of being healed. Celebrate because now you will know happy, painless times that are free from the endless stresses that you endured in life. As you crossed the Rainbow Bridge, there was your Mother. And look, Ned. There's Bunny! Catherine Sloan-Rhys, Jacksonville, Fl and Waynesville, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Dearest Ned, We did not know you long, but you quickly became a deeply loved friend. I'm so very sorry that you had such a terrible life, but I'm sure you will enjoy your resting place in Tennessee. I look forward to meeting you personally after I too cross the Rainbow Bridge. Thank you for the time you spent with us. Bunny's friend, Rosie, Evansville IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Dearest Ned, I am just one of so many who looked each day to see how you were doing. Were you eating? Were you filling out? And when several days would pass with no news posted, I got cranky, but assumed no news was good news. I was so hopeful. But it wasn't to be. Like others who developed a deep and abiding love for you, I will miss you so very much. Having a few months of good food and loving treatment was wonderful, but it wasn't enough. It never should have happened in the first place. Perhaps your passing will prompt messages that will be heard by those who need to hear. I am angry that you were treated the way you were, but mostly, I am sad. Goodbye my dear gentle giant. Namaste................ Ann Logan, San Diego, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Your struggles are now over Ned...Sweet dreams... The Poole Family, Hampton, Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Thank-you for blessing the Earth with your brief, sacred presence. We love you and will miss you deeply. Susie Jeffries, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Yes, Meg. I made the same promise, as well!! We must save them!! I have been fighting for what seems like a lifetime. Don't worry Ned, I will never give up the "good fight". Strength in numbers and bless your heart!! Bless dear sweet Ned and TES. Thank you for taking care of him. I weep as I type. My heart aches for your pain. We love you Ned and we are so sorry that we could not save you sooner. Rest in peace and free from pain Dear Sweet Ned. xoxo Lisa Koehl, Brooklyn, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Sweet Ned, my heart ached for you when I saw you for the first time and learned of your life before TES. And as I read, and kept up with your progress in your diary, I began to love you. I am so sad that you are not with us any longer, but take comfort in knowing that you did experience love on this earth, and that you are with the other animals whom we've loved and lost. As I sit here typing this, I can just imagine the moment you crossed over. How the others came to greet you! How my babies barked, and wagged their tails, and sniffed your trunk! How my kitties jumped on your back, and played in the grass on your head! And how Bunny and the others came to greet you! I will always remember you Ned..... Rebecca, Biloxi, Ms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 My beautiful Neddie: I have started to put my promise to you into action: When you passed, I promised that, in your name, I would do everything I could to help get elephants to sanctuary before it's too late. I have written to the USDA that they cannot wait to confiscate an elephant from circuses until they are so sick they cannot be saved. I have also asked the person I wrote to at the USDA to please stop your former owner/trainer from ever again owning/training/or having any kind of contact again with another elephant. I have written to TV reporting and commentary shows, asking they they please tell the tragic story of your life and death as a result of your being in circuses. I promise, Neddie, I will continue during my lifetime my efforts to stop elephants in circuses and zoos. And I will also do whatever I can to stop your previous circus trainer/owner from ever again having contact with another elephant for the rest of his life. In your name, my Neddie. JS, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Ned, I think you are a message to all of us that we MUST put an END to mistreating Elephant and STOP keeping Elephants in Circus and Zoo's. His video just brings me to tears knowing he found out was FREEDOM and Love was at the Sanctuary. Bless everyone who helps all elephants. Lisa Denise Nelson, Montana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 24, 2009 Ned, I cried the first time I saw your emaciated frame and what the cruel world had done to you. It deeply saddens me now that you're gone, but at least you will suffer no more here. The look in your eyes will never be forgotten. Be free now as you should've been before! You will be remembered! Amy Littlefield, Waterford, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Rest in peace you big beautiful elephant. Spread the word, and end live animals in circuses! Jeanette, Mattydale, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 I am so sad that you have left this world so young. We were all lucky to have known you. You will be missed. Rome free and without pain now Ned! Pam, Townsend, MA. USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 MY HEART IS TRULY BROKEN-I WAS SO HOPING YOU WOULD JUST THRIVE IN THIS WONDERFUL SANCTUARY. I READ ALL THERE WAS TO READ AND HAVE SAT HERE AND CRIED MY EYES OUT BECAUSE YOU DIDN'T MAKE IT. YOUR LIFE WAS TOO SHORT AND I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR HURT AND PAIN-WE ALL LOVED YOU AND WILL NOT FORGET YOU. I PRAY YOU ARE ROAMING IN HEAVEN WHERE NO HARM CAN COME TO YOU-I HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE. SHARON BROWN, WESTLAND, MICHIGAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Dear Ned, sweet boy. you warmed my heart every time I would read your diary. I LOVE YOU!!!!!! Brittney, Aurora, CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Darling Ned everytime I see your face I cry for all that we humans have done to you. How wonderful that you ended up in Hohenwald around the corner from me. God Bless and sleep peacefully now. Judy. Judy Fleming, Hohenwald TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 EVERYTIME I READ YOUR STORIES,I CRY,SO GOOD TO READ ,ABOUT PLAYING CATCH WITH THE DOG,SO SAD,U WERE SO YOUNG,SO U CAN RELAX,AND BE IN HEAVEN ALAN GREN, ASHAWAY,RHODE ISLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Sweet Ned, you did not deserve to die from the abuse you had suffered for years. The loving, compassionate people at TES gave you the freedom and care you had deserved your entire life. In your honor, I will devote my time to working with IDA in San Rafael to free all circus animals. RIP, sweet Ned. Lynn, San Rafael, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Oh, Ned, as a gatekeeper of wisdom, I know you have forgiven the masters of cruelty. It is difficult being part of the human race and I am ashamed that such a magnificent spirit was in the hands of the circus. I send my highest love to you and pray that circuses throughout the world will be shut down, forever. I'm terribly sorry you were a part of this tragedy. The human race has so many lessons to learn. Nikki Halip, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 What a good boy! You deserved every bit of happiness that was yours in your last months. Mary, mjdarden@juno.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 i had tears of joy & sadness when i first saw your devastated emaciated body & yet the gentle soul of who you truly were also shone brightly that day. I loved watching your video & have a sense that you were able to forgive the humans that did not get you & learn that not all of us are so heartless towards such magnificent beasts as yourself. I also have a sense that bunny was a comrade & you chose to leave soon after her...thank you for giving us all a chance to know you, love you & bring some peace to you. denise, chemainus canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Ned - I am glad that you had such wonderful and compassionate care at the Sanctuary. I hope that you are at peace and no longer in pain now and I know that you are with "my" Bunny. Namaste, dear friend. Toni, Baldwin, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 I've been following you story since you arrived at TES. I was sad when things for you weren't going well and happy to hear about your playing with you tire and ball. I'm so saddened by your passing, but also happy that you are no longer is pain. Rest in peace dear Ned. Lisa Magliano, Killington, VT USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 To honour Ned, I promised him that I would work to help all mistreated elephants, especially those in circuses. Tina, Jewel and Queenie are three circus elephants who need help - it would be wonderful if all who are grieving for Ned could turn that grief into action to help save these sweet ladies and end their suffering before it is too late. Meg Johnson, NW USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Ned, we remember your arrival at the Sanctuary so well. We remember those first tentative steps that you took from the trailer - those were the last ones, for we believe that you suddenly realized that this was the place you were waiting for - the compassion, friendship, and care that you would experience here was in your dreams of a peaceful remainder of your ellie life. If you had to leave us so soon after your arrival, go in peace, my friend - Bunny will be there with you on your beautiful new journey. Namaste, dear Ned. David, Winchester, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Baby boy, I started following your story when you left FL. Being a Floridian, I was embarrassed to read of your treatment. When I made my first donation, I was hoping to make up for how poorly you had been treated. Each week I read your dairy & was encouraged when you found the right mix of foods. Reading the news today, and losing my cat Lucky a month ago, makes me sorry for the short life you both had. Tears are streaming down my face and my heart hurts for you both. I hope your few months of love carry you into eternity!! Denise, St. Pete, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Sweet, sweet Ned. You worried to death. Shame on the humans who so abused you that you died of grief. At least the angels at the Sanctuary gave you a loving, safe home to breathe your last. Go in peace, dear Ned. Bunny will look over you. Loretta, Oregon, USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Ned, everyday we came to see you, write poetry about you. You would be the conversation out our dinner my 4 yr old eating corn on the cob would say, this is Ned's favorite. I would smile and say yes I'm sure Ned would love it. My heart is broken into a million pieces, but knowing Ned no longer has to suffer ever again gives me strength to smile about Ned. The Zorro's, cape coral, fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Ned had such little time with TESS but thank god he lived and died in your care. I'm glad he is out of pain and was surrounded by people that truly loved and respected him as a beautiful, awesome creature of this earth. Goodbye darling Ned you will no longer have to suffer and will roam once again with all the eles. God Bless TES, my heart goes out to you all. lisa white, S. Yarmouth, Ma.United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 I was looking forward to following your progress for many years, and I'm so saddened by your death. You were a brave boy, Ned, and I'll really miss you. Hester, Jamaica Plain, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 I will miss you so much. I love this picture of you, with the grass hat. I know that you are in a better place and that you are happy. Finally at peace. I can not express how much gratitude and respect that I have for the sanctuary for taking such good care of you in your last days. I will never forget you and I will always love you. Brenda, Spokane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 A week since you saw Miss Bunny smiling and waiting for you to catch up! A week without you; eagerly looking to see what surprises you gave, what amusement you found, what new portraits there might be of that wondrous face. One of these days I will be able to stop writing to you. And one of these days I will stop crying when I think of you. But it won't be today, sugar. Auntie Deb, Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 Dear Ned, blessings to you, sweet, sweet, special boy. I was deeply touched by your life and saddened by your untimely death. anna, oregon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23, 2009 I am so deeply saddened by Ned's passing, had so fervently hoped he would recover from his years of abuse. Unfortunately, that was not to be. I do believe he understood and appreciated the care and love he received at TES, many, many thanks to all of you. Rest in peace and free of pain dear Ned. I will never forget you or your incredible spirit. Sandy, Cupertino, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 May Ned's legacy serve to make people aware that these beautiful creatures do not belong being forced to perform for us, but rather to roam free as they were born to do. That would be their greatest performance. James Niceberg, New York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned....thank you for being in our lives and touching our hearts so deeply....God bless as you have risen to the heavens to be with so many dear friends...and with such great thanks to those who have cared for you while at the Sanctuary. You, too, will never be forgotten by me. Much love. Delores Wall, Langley, BC Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 At the Sanctuary Ned got a preview of what Ele-heaven must be like. Presumably Ned found life at the Sanctuary so wonderful he decided only the REAL heaven would satisfy him. And so off Ned went on his new adventure and new life in Ele-heaven. Ned was one of my favorites the first time i saw his photo. I so wanted Ned to be well and some how find a way to remain at the sanctuary. And i guess this is what Ned has done: a part of him will live for ever at the sanctuary while his spirit happily roams Ele-heaven. The sanctuary girls certainly were waiting to welcome him with trump blasts, clicks and trunk hugs. Joanna isn't lonely in Ele-heaven: her girls and Ned are there to keep her company. Magda , Pinon Hills, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Oh Ned, we're going to miss you. I've read of the pain you must've lived with, so cannot wish selfishly that you might have stayed on the earth plane. You're free now,and I'm happy for that much, and for the wonderful love you were surrounded by in your last half year of life. Carry it all with you, you glorious soul. Goodbye, Ned. Dawn Killen-Courtney, St. Louis Park, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 You were an angel on earth and now you are an angel in heaven. Thank you for your beautiful but short life. The whole world is better for your sacrifice. g. simpson, north carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned, I was so sad to hear that you had passed away, but I am comforted by the knowledge that your last months were spent among caring, kind people. Your story has changed forever my opinion of circuses. I hope that now you are at last free as an elephant should be. My thoughts are with all the wonderful people who helped you and loved you. Erica, Long Beach, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, I am so saddened by your passing. I followed your progress after you moved to the Sanctuary and was very relieved to know you were finally in good hands. My first donation to the Sanctuary was because of you and I sent it after seeing the video of you coming to your new home. I am so sorry and sad. You were a beautiful elephant. Martina Deignan, New York City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Rest in peace, sweet Ned. This world was not good enough for you. christine, nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I kept up with your life at TES via internet...I am so grateful to TES for providing you a safe and comfortable place to live until you finished your life here.. Your were and will always be inspiring to all of us ..... Sylvia Edwards, Franklin, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Our Sweet Ned, your time with us was far too short but God gave you Angels to care for you and love you...since Texas is a long way from Tennessee, we watched as you gained strength and learned to play. You gave us a glimmer of hope, as we struggled with you along the way...you were not alone. Your pain is gone and Earth a distant memory, but God called you home, I bet you entered those Gates Trumpeting in Victory. Now you roam the lands of your ancestors without hunger, without cruelty, without pain, so Run those hills, my Elephant Friend, roll in the green grass and wallow in the mud until your heart is content, I'll see you when I get there and your memory is within my heart. Be Free, Free to be the Glory God Intended for You to Be..how we will miss you, but we will never forget your struggle. You show that Spirit cannot be broken...who said Elephants can't fly didn't know you, now did they Ned? Until I see you in Heaven... Debra Powers, Midland, Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I just opened my Trunklines & read the devastating news about Bunny & Ned. I am so very very sorry. Indeed the tears were strong & immediate. Strangely though, there is some semblance of happiness regarding Bunny knowing that she chose her time. I could almost let her go and feel pride for her & in her, but Ned is very hard. I was so pulling for him .. as were so many others.. even in its terrible gauntness his was such a beautiful face.. such deep, wonderful depths of expression in his eyes. He too may have chosen his time, but even if so, while he may have been robbed of length of years, he won the immense richness of unconditional love when he came to the heaven on earth known as TES. Debra, Windsor, Ontario Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned: I just learned of your death and my tears are flowing as I write this. I am sad that you did not truly enjoy your new home but gladdened that you died in peace with those who loved you. Kristin, Mississippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned, I'm so sorry to hear of your passing. You were so loved by all the staff and supporters during the last months of your life. It's wonderful to know there are so many who loved you. Sleep well dear Ned. Janice Horner, Terre Haute, IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I never got to meet Ned, but I loved him... his story is such a sad one, but has a sweet ending. God bless the Sanctuary, I am confident that Ned spent the last months of his life in peace and happiness; something he never knew before he came. This is such a testament to the abuse and neglect that elephants experience in circuses / zoos. I pray one day, there will be no more circuses on this earth. Until then, keep up the amazing things you are doing... we are all so thankful. Elizabeth Shuart, Dallas, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, My heart is broken. I imagine you are at peace and pain-free which brings some comfort. I hope that before you left us you came to understand, through the loving care you received in the last few months of your life, that not all humans are bad. There are those of us who truly love all creatures and only want them to have the lives they were born to live. May your soul fly with the butterflies. Karen, New York, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 May Ned have a special place in Heaven and in God's heart and compassion - greener pastures to play in - Bunny and the others at his side and joy forever more. May God do His justice on those that deliberately hurt wonderful animals and cause them harm and pain - short term or long term. Charlotte Taylor, Trenton, Ga. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 My wife, daughter and I are proud to remain "Ned-Heads." We mourn his passing, but are comforted that he spent his last weeks with people who truly cared. You will never be forgotten, Ned. Steve Prentice, Toronto, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Im sorry you had such a terrible life. It never should have been that way. Rest in peace..you deserve that Lisa, Sarasota, Fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I just cried watching Ned's arrival at the Sanctuary again. I so hoped he would make it and get healthy. I am so happy that he spent his last months at a place where he was so well taken care of. You are incredible for what you do at the sanctuary. We will all miss Ned and keeping up with his progress. Just knowing he was there brought us such joy. Sonia Colon, Harrisburg, Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I'm sad, hiding in my cubical and blaming my teary eyes and red nose on allergies. I'm sorry your experience with freedom was short lived. The documentation of your rescue and progress warmed my heart and gave me joy. I'm blessed to have met you, Ned. You are still loved by many. Another Heart Broken NedHead, Northern CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Thank you Elephant Sanctuary for rescuing and comforting this magnificent, abused creature. His photos moved me to tears. I was so pleased that you found him and welcomed him, even though it was so unusual for you to foster a male. I feel comforted knowing that at least his last days were were spent in Elephant Paradise. Adriana Baker, Brooklyn, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned, where-ever you are, I hope that you find it in your heart of hearts to forgive people for making you live such a horrible life, and that you forget all of that while remembering the devotion, love and trust you found with all the good people at Hohenwald. When I found out about your death, I cried a bucket of tears and still don't feel anything except anger and loss, which I must change to good work for others of your kind who need our help. I have sent emails to people requesting they donate money and time to the cause of other elephants living under horrendous conditions in this country as you did. You brought hope and joy to all of us as we beheld your courage and willingness to cooperate with your caretakers. You will always be missed, and you will never be forgotten as you are placed securely in my heart and the hearts of many, many people. If you can see us from where you now stand, enjoy the good works we do on behalf of you and others like you. All people are not bad, and some are. Send us your love and support so that we may increase the number of good people until they far outnumber the bad ones. We can certainly use your help, Dear Child and Friend. , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dearest Ned, Your spirit will be with us always. Your beautiful elephant sounds will be heard whenever we look to the clouds on a sunny day. Jo March, New York, N.Y. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 You were a good boy, Ned. Sorry you had to go so soon. I'll miss seeing what you're up to in your diary. Bless you, and all creatures who share this earth. Jo, Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, May you rest in peace with Bunny. I'm so glad you are no longer in pain and I know that you are in that special place that all animals who were loved go, The Rainbow Bridge. May God Bless You and Keep You. Shar Fleming, Pagosa Springs, CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I have followed Ned's journey from the day that he arrived. I have laughed & cried but I am truly thankful that he had a wonderful place with wonderful people, elephants & dogs to live out his life with dignity & freedom. Thank you everyone! Dianna Aaron, Westwood, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned, this news breaks my heart. The ONLY consolation is that your last months were in a great place among good people and ellies. Go to elli-heaven and enjoy the trip baby! Carolyn Outhwaite, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Oh sweet Ned, my heart is broken over the cruel life you had to live. I apologize for the way some of us humans have such little care or love for any animals. I am rejoicing today that you Ned are FREE....finally you are FREE to roam, and play and you are healthy and happy. Oh Ned, what a wonderful day that was for you, the day you left this life. A sad but bittersweet day for those of us that love all animals. I will see you again one day Ned and we will walk together and commune. Have fun with all your 'brothers' and 'sisters', animals of all kinds!!! Pamela , Naples Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Poor Ned :-( I am glad that your pain is gone now... I Love You Nancy, Uxbridge, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I'm heartbroken that Ned has passed after such a short and difficult life, but so grateful to everyone at the Elephant Sanctuary for surrounding him with love and care during the last months of his life. Thank you for everything you do for these glorious animals. I so looked forward to the periodic updates on how you were doing, always hoping that the news would be of your improving condition, and always smiled with pleasure at the news of any new joy you had discovered. You were loved, and you will be missed. Pass in peace and love. Catherine, Brooklyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dearest Ned, Now that you've crossed the Rainbow Bridge, you'll find that you are gaining confidence and making new friends. It's too bad you didn't have time to do that at the Elephant Sanctuary but now you will be treated just as well as you were there by those earthly angels. Good Bye, Ned, and Blessings be yours, Sybil , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 My Dearest Neddie. You will forever be in my heart. With Love. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Rest in Peace dear boy. When you came to the Sanctuary it filled my heart with joy that your captive life in misery was over. I wished you many, many years of freedom here. It breaks my heart your time was so short. I hope you knew moments of both love and peace at the sanctuary. You touched my heart from afar. You were loved and are missed. Charlotte, Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Now you have found peace Ned. Namaste. "Our task must be to free ourselves . . . by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty." Albert Einstein. G T, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, May you rest in peace and thank you for bringing joy and happiness to the mankind. We love you, Ian and Pauline, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 If ever an animal deserves the best that life has to offer, it is the elephant. I am deeply saddened, but glad that your last months were at the sanctuary. God spoke that unto the least of his creatures, ye shall also do unto him, and I believe that with all my heart. Rest in his care, Ned, and know that you will never know pain again. Nancy Richard, Bristol, RI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Oh,I am in tears,Ned, E.ternal L.ove E.ntwined P.rophecy H.umble A.doration N.ow T.rue ,that's my ELEPHANT spelling. Beyond ourselves today,Ned. Thanks for your secrets,Ned! Paula, hallandale,florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, I think the world would be a better place if elephants ran it. What happened to you was truly tragic. God speed. Donna Ubriaco, Spring Valley, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Oh, dearest Ned - I have just learned that you have left us behind. Of all the elephants I'd grown to love, I think you were the most special of all. I will miss hearing of your latest news, but am so happy that you are out of pain at last. Much love (and so many tears right now)... Julie, Tucson AZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Free at last. I had so hoped that Ned would improve, and that he would live a long and happy life. Alas, it was not to be. I console myself with the knowledge that Ned passed away in the company of those who put his needs before the thought of using him for profit. Ned was truly loved at the end of his time on Earth, and now his physical suffering is at last relieved. If there truly is an elephant heaven, I'm sure Ned is happily mud-wallowing there to his heart's content! Greg Garduno, Aurora, CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 You bore your suffering with honor and dignity, and you inspired me. I'm grateful to you for reminding me that acceptance and surrender are expressions of strength. Thank you for living your life well. Greg, Albuquerque, NM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 NED YOU SHALL BE MISSED TOO FOR THE SHORT TIME YOU WERE THERE. YOU WERE A JOY TO WATCH ON THE ELE CAM. YOU WERE TOO YOUNG TO DIE. MAY YOU ENJOY THE GREEN GREEN PASTURES OF HOME IN HEAVEN JEANNIE, ST PAUL MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned you had a hard life and although I am extremely sad that you have passed away, I am glad that you don't have to suffer anymore. We will see you in heaven someday. Being a donor to the Elephant Sanctuary is a lifelong commitment and I am glad you had some peaceful time at the Sanctuary before you passed. As I write this I am crying. Now you are in heaven with a new body. I am happy for you. Sheila Johnson, Raleigh, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, I will miss you and hope that in the last months of your life, you smiled..... I thank the Elephant Sanctuary for the wonderful job they did in showing you that there are humans who love and care. Goodbye, dear one. Christine West, Rockport, Maine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I have not been keeping up with the diary entries in the past 2 weeks. Needless to say, the newsletter I received today was quite a shock. My heart goes out to those close to Ned. I follow the sanctuary quite a bit and I must say, Ned the underdog has been my favorite. It was so good to see him get the love and support of everyone! I know that he cherished his final months at sanctuary and leaves us in peace and in the arms of love. June, Bellevue, Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Precious Ned, Missing you so much. I can't believe it's already been a week. Ned, last Friday was my mother's birthday. She heard my anguish and tears when I found out you were gone and she was very understanding being the kindhearted and tender soul that she is. I was always asking her to pray for you which she did faithfully. We all love you so much. You are our special ele-angel. Ushma, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, Please find it in your heart to forgive us one day. With love, Toni, Ottawa, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, I hope that you can forgive those who kept you from experiencing the sun, the wind and rain. To not be able to live a normal life that was given to you not by humans, but God himself. I am sad that this was taken away from you and that your life was nothing but pain and suffering. I am sad that your life at The Elephant Sanctuary wasn't longer so that you could have experienced the love and caring that those people have shown you. May you live a long and free life from here on out. Elizabeth, Soddy Daisy, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I am sorry Ned that you had to go thru so much pain but I know you are in a peaceful place now. I followed your story and will never forget you, you big brave elephant! Love you! Diane Cascia, san jose,california . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 I am so glad that Ned got to be at the sanctuary with you and able to pass with dignity. Godspeed. Victoria Linder, Spokane, WA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, May you enjoy an eternity filled with sunshine, good health, friends and happiness, you deserve it. Give my love to Jenny, Bunny and all the others who wait at the Rainbow Bridge. Godspeed, my friend. Cindy Collier, Tennessee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 When I visit this site earlier this year, I was shocked to see the film about your arrival at this sanctuary, I never seen an elephant so thin. Today I'm back on this site and read that you are in heaven now... I'm happy to know that the last months of your life you where loved by people of this sanctuary. Best wishes from Holland and R.I.P. Janneke, Holland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Would that the collective power of all the love and prayers sent your way could have released you from your imposed fate. You will not be forgotten. There is much work to be done to ensure humanity's legacy towards earth's creatures is not forced isolation, humiliation, suffering and death. You were loved by so many. I hope you knew. , California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Neddy, I am saddened to hear of your passing but joyful thoughts fill my heart that your last months were spent among those who loved and cared for you, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, eating good quality food and tasting freedom for the first time. May you be playing in the sunshine now and free from all pain and hurt. Say hello to Jenny, Bunny, and all the others for me. Sally McMillan, Phoenixville, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Ned que você seja porta-voz para as atrocidades cometidas em circos. É impossível aceitarmos circos com animais e ainda assim acharmos essa atitude normal ou salutar. Vive Cirque de Soleil - no animals! :o) paula regina, Rio de Janeiro-Brasil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Ned, it has been a whole week since you passed away and I am still heartbroken over your untimely death. I hope that the results of your necropsy will help prove once and for all that the circus life is not "no life at all", but rather, it is a tortured, lonely and painful life. Everyone knows that one of the main causes of ulcers is stress, yet you were still forced to perform even though you were obviously in pain and so close to death. At the circus, you were no "ambassador" for your species (as the circus and zoo industries so often claim), but at TES you most certainly were. How I miss you, Bunny and the others who have passed away before you. I'm glad you had at least a little bit of freedom at the end of your very short life. I'm also glad I have my Ned mug to remind me what a handsome guy you were. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of your caretakers and everyone at TES (and PAWS) who worked so hard to rescue and take care of you. I hope Bunny guided you gently across the rainbow bridge into paradise. Maggie, Saratoga Springs, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 Dear Sweet Ned, Like Lota, you had a life of hardship, but were able to finally have the freedom, love, care and all of your favorite foods at TES. When will we as a species realize animals are not here for our entertainment, clothing, food or experiments, but for their own purpose? Rest in peace. Tricia Glynn, Milwaukee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 22, 2009 My poor beautiful boy: I just want you to know that there is a wonderful lady who loves you and cries for you - she is my 86-year-old mother, and she has a special candle she lights just for you, that you may at last be at peace and free from the terrible pain you suffered in your life and still forced to perform. My heart is broken without you, Neddie. I miss you and love you so very much. JS, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Dear Ned. I was heartbroken when I learned of your passing along with that of Bunny. I spent the rest of the day sending letters to the USDA and my elected officials on behalf of all of your elephant friends in need. I promise to you that I will never stop advocating for your fellow Elephants who are sad and in need of help from the Sanctuary. All of your suffering is behind you now. Your spirit is free. You will live in our hearts forever. Jayne, Kansas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Dear Ned, The thought of an animal act circus gives me ulcers so I'm not surprised you were plagued with them before you arrived at the Sanctuary. I hope in my lifetime these hideous side shows are made illegal, banned, and shunned. I am thankful you are free of pain, but very very sorry your life ended because of this exploitation. I am thankful, however, that you died in a highly evolved facility. Lesley, Vancouver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Sweet Ned, I look at you handsome face every morning on my coffee cup. I am sad you have passed but happy for you to have known that people love you dearly and cared for you dearly. Rest in peace sweet Fella. lots of love. Tracie, Woodland Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 To Our Darling Ned, We will miss you forever. We love you with all our heart. Diane, Narcisse and Syd Marcus, G.G., Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 As much as I am heartbroken that your time of freedom and being surrounded by love was so very short, as odd as it may seem - when I read the results of your necropsy, a smile and some peace came to me. I am always amazed at how much these beautiful souls teach us. And so often, we learn even more from their passing. Sweet Ned, your passing shows the world that the life forced upon you and other animals in captivity and doomed to a life of performing steals your life and your soul. Your short time with us will forever be a gift to all of your brothers and sisters for many, many years to come. How can we ever thank you, sweet Ned. Peace be with you. L.C., New Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 It breaks my heart to hear of Ned's passing. Such a valiant fight. He has now joined those other silly pachyderms at the mud hole, and is frolicking in the warm sun. Forever in a place of love. Endless grass and goodies to munch on. Go sweet Ned and trumpet to the world of your coming home. Betty Jo , Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 I had prayed so hard that you would finally be healed and live a full and long life at the sanctuary. But I'm so grateful that at least for the last few months of your life, you knew love and kindness. You deserved so much more than you got out of life, but you have left your mark in the hearts of so many of us who have watched and prayed for you. I know you are now traveling the beautiful vistas of heaven with others who have gone before you. I hope that somehow you know just how much you were loved, by both those who had the honor of actually knowing you, and those of us who have loved you from afar. Go in peace, sweet Ned. Bonnie Snider, Jacksonville, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 your body has left the earth...but, your low rumbles vibrate beneath my feet and the feet of your brothers and sisters, who hear you, who look up and trumpet to salute you. knowing,that another of their kind is passing...they felt the steady pounding of the earth's sounds as you walked the ground of your ancestors and in the final hours you retreat to your gentle self.in peace and harmony, with the universe. We know you walked this earth Ned..we will see you again, Namaste, my sweet boy aida vellotti, rowayton, ct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Ned I am so incredibly sad that you did not have more years to "enjoy life, live light in the spring". But at least when you died you were in the care of people who really loved you and wanted only the best for you. May your Spirit now fly free unencumbered by the chains that held you down for so long. And may you know only peace and love forever. And finally, perhaps, in passing your death will motivate those people who have the power to help others of your kind. Christine Pawlak, Hackettstown, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 I cannot imagine the life of elephants in circuses and how horribly they are mistreated. But I am so thankful there are enough concerned people and organizations , including this Sanctuary, that work to free the elephants so they can live out the rest of their days in peace. I am saddened by Ned's passing and for all those animals who suffer miserably. I can hope, and work for, the closing of all circuses. The people in charge need to learn that circus life is inhumane and against God's plan. Rosemary McDonnell, Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Good night, sweet prince. You will be missed and you will always be loved. Jennifer, Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Oh, Ned - I am typing through the tears. I wish you had found sanctuary sooner, but am glad that your last few months were at a place where you were cherished and loved as you have always deserved. Julia, Bloomington, Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Bless you, Ned. You were a very special boy who did not deserve the life of pain and suffering you had. Rest now, sweet boy. You will always be loved. Donna Lenhart, Poughkeepsie NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Along with many others, I watched from the sidelines, almost everyday, to see if you were improving and rejoiced when I read you had a good day. I contributed when I could and always wished I could do more, almost envying your caretaker. My heart broke when I heard of your passing. I can't explain why this gentle creature touched me so, but he did and I grieve at his loss. But I am comforted by the fact that he finally knew love and affection and did not die thinking no one cared. I am certain he knew. Sleep well, Ned. You are in good company. Christina, Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 It makes so sad and so angry that Ned's life was cut short by human abuse and that he knew nothing but suffering all his life until he came to the Elephant Sanctuary. At least he finally knew love and kindness at the end of his life, but that is not enough. I hope he is at peace now and his suffering can be used as an example to stop the suffering of other innocent elephants. Susan Depner, Addison, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Dear old fellow, how fortunate you were to find refuge and loving friends in your final days. Now you are free of pain and distress and your soul can wander forever and ever. Suzanne Novotny, Aptos, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Oh dear Ned, I am weeping for you. I did not know until just a moment ago that you had passed. I checked each day but did not fully understand that now I had to go to the African site to read about you. I am happy that you had your last months at a wonderful place where everyone loved and cared for you. I will never for get you Ned, sweet boy! Rest in peace at last. Ruth Herrera, Tucson, Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Sweet Ned....I have cried, sobbed actually, every day for the last 3 days since I heard of your passing. I had followed your progress regularly since last Nov. And I had such high hopes for your new life. It breaks my heart to know of the neglect you suffered for so many years but warms my heart with the knowledge that your final months were filled with great love and care. Rest in peace dear Ned....you will be missed each and every day. Gina, New Hartford, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 21, 2009 Rest in peace little fella. You will suffer no more pain now, and your spirit will live on and enjoy endless green pastures and freedom, how you should have in life. Lots of love Natalie Natalie Finniss, Gravesend, Kent England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Ned - reading the recent post with some necropsy results broke my heart. Dearest, I am so sorry you had such pain while on this earth. It is always so hard to know one is in pain and be helpless to fix it. The Sanctuary gave it all they had and while it was only a short time, I am grateful you were able to know that love at the end and I know that you were at peace when you left us. Blessings, dear Ned! Rest in peace. Jill, Seattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Sweet Ned, Despite all of our grief at this sudden loss, you left us richer with your legacy. Thank you for all that you taught us and all of the joy you brought us. Christine, Dallas, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Good-bye sweet Ned. I will miss you very much. So glad that you are in a better place especially with Bunny. I know you will be watching us from above. You will never be forgotten my dear ele-friend. Brooke, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Go safely onward Ned. Find the peace which should have been your birthright. Jane, Vancouver, BC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Namaste dearest. Thank you for all you have given us. Rest in peace. You and all your brothers and sisters will always be in my thoughts. Be free . Say hi to baby kitty for me will ya Good bye dearest boy Laurie, New Hampshire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 My heart is literally broken that Ned had to endure the suffering he did for so many years.... that someone could abuse a helpless animal the way Ned was abused. He didn't deserve it. And he couldn't speak for himself. It is left us to us to speak for others like Ned. Let Ned be the beacon that leads us to do the right thing. Thank you TES for giving Ned someone who loved him finally. Karen, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Ned, you truly awoke the elephant in me.. travel safely my kind brother.... Ginger, mother earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Tears, but I know your last minutes were comforting ones at TES.You will journey to a kinder and gentler place. Goodbye Ned cynthia , toronto, canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Keep the gals company up there Ned. Love to you all Jenifer, Madison, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 I love you, Ned Sabine Zell, Simsbury, CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Ned.... I can't believe you're gone. Although I know that you are in a better place, with no pain or struggles, I will miss looking for updates on your progress and the silly things you did. I will always treasure the memory of you with straw on your head. Rest in peace, dear Neddy, and grow to be the beautiful, triumphant elephant you were meant to be. You were well loved. Kathi, forever a Nedhead, Portland, OR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Ned, on my very first trip to Florida, when I was a little girl, I went to Bush Gardens to see the elephants. Looking back at some old photographs, I discovered that I was there the day after your birthday. I would have never imagined that the life you had ahead of you would be such a strenuous journey. I'm so sorry buddy. Rest sweetly dear Ned. Although your life was taken so soon, I believe your story will inspire many. Holly K., Buffalo, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 I'm still crying Ned - I wish you could have had a better life. I'll miss you forever! Janet Slates, Toledo, Ohio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Farewell, Ned. You left this world surrounded in body and in spirit by all those who wanted to see you live a long and happy life. Those wishes didn't come true, but your contribution to helping humans understand elephant health problems, will surely keep your memory alive. Thank you to everyone for making Ned's time at the Sanctuary so full of love and devotion. Beverley Marinello, Langley, BC, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 'Tis true, Ned, I loved you from afar. Your caregivers' love was obvious from the diaries and highly contagious. I had so hoped that you would live a wonderful life at bull mountain. I am eternally grateful that you died in loving care and with angel Bunny waiting to guide you to the Rainbow Bridge. The necropsy of your body will help other ailing elephants and add to the growing research on elephant diseases. That picture of you with your haydoo is bittersweet. Namaste Neddy the Nedster, with profound sadness Anita, Calgary, Alberta, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Dearest Ned, I only hope you somehow understood the loving wishes sent your way for a complete recovery. You are missed more than words can say. To all the TES Family, you have my deepest sympathy. Sincerely, Mary, Marion, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Gentle giant, sweet and tall, move through grasses beyond captivity, beyond pain, beyond the slavery into which you were born. Bless the Sanctuary that made it possible for your last breaths to be free ones. There were so many of us out there rooting for you! You are back with your ancestral kin. Thank you for your inspiration, Ned. As the Sanctuary is so fond of saying to its departed, Namaste, Dear Friend! Monique Duval, Worcester MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Bless you dear Ned. Such a sad life - with the exception of your last few months. jen, Wa state . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Ned's passing was such a blow. He was such a brave boy whose only break was coming to TES. I hope the USDA sees this and although they acted swiftly once they saw his condition should have known of his condition much sooner. I don't understand why they didn't.. The greatest tribute to Ned would be that other elephants are saved before things get this far. Doreen Rudnick, Metamora, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 I am at a loss for words in the death of Ned. How I prayed he would improve but some things are not to be. We were all blessed to have known him. Thank you, Sanctuary, for the loving care given to Ned, Bunny and all the elephants. God Bless you all. Sallie Bennett, Colorado Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Dearest Ned, my heart aches with love for you. I am happy you had peace for a little while. Thank you for giving and receiving love at TES. Thank you to all the caregivers for working so hard to try and heal this magnificent creature. Namaste, my elephant man. Love, Liz XOXOXO Liz N., Oshkosh, WI 54901 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 I just do not know how any human can harm such a wonderful and majestic animal. My heart hurt as I watched Ned's arrival video and view the lack of care Ned had. It was a joy keeping up with his progress and sadden when I checked in on him today. Thank you Carol and Scott for giving Ned at least 7 months of freedom and love. Thank you for your big heart and care of these wonderful elephants. I will miss reading about Ned. c. woodward, palm desert, california . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Dear precious Nedster Still cannot believe you are gone from this earth. I am so sorry for the pain and suffering you endured. After reading about the necropsy, I am even more saddened to learn about your ailments. I am grateful to God that you are now with Him in heaven; just know that no one will EVER hit you again my wonderful, beautiful, special friend. Thanks to all your caregivers at TES for their outstanding efforts and care. You will be missed here by many but to know that you are in a better place brings some comfort. Even though we can't see you anymore, I know you will always be looking down on us with those big beautiful eyes. Thanks for keeping your trunk up as long as you did-you are truly an inspiration. Never forgotten and always loved. Avni, Ontario, Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Greetings and Comfort Dearest Fellow NedHeads, I was disappointed to find that Ned's Memorial Fund is at $0. I'm writing to encourage all of us to include Ned's Legacy in our Tribute to him. Check out the Elephant Endowments page. Consider making ANY financial support toward Ned's Memorial Fund. It will be there for the next 'Ned' who needs it. My heart is with you, Ned. Hazel, Greenfield, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Dearest Ned, I had such hopes that you would be able to beat your health issues and live a long and happy life at the sanctuary. I'm sorry to hear that this will not be. I'm glad that you had some time there to be free and enjoy the good life. I will miss coming here to read about your progress. Til we meet at the Bridge, old Friend! Pam - a Ned-head forever!, Grafton, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 I'll miss you, Ned, and Bunny too. Thanks to all at TES for everything you do for these gentle giants. Peggy, Twinsburg, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Oh sweet Ned, I feared it might be your pancreas but new nothing could be done....I am 44 years old and have had the same horrible ailment my entire life. It's a miracle that I'm still here and sometimes wish I weren't. Half of my pancreas has been removed but since I was born with it, that or any other surgeries will not help. For all of you out there, rest assured he is pain free at last. It is nothing short of agony to endure this pain for so many years. I have always loved elephants and my mom would always give me my favorite stuffed ele to hold during some very difficult times throughout my childhood as I laid in pain. I was heartbroken when I heard of 71's passing from a similar illness at PAWS last September and know she is at peace also. Losing Delhi, Queenie, and Bunny is just as hard on my heart. I love these sweet souls so very much and for everyone at TES and PAWS, I can never thank you enough for all that you do. Marcia, San Diego, Ca. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Godspeed Ned - at least you died free and in the company of those who loved you. Carole Clarke, College Park, MD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 You inspired me, Ned. Thank you to the Sanctuary and all the elephants for bringing Ned into your lives. Thank you for sharing his story with me. I am glad I could know him. I'm so sorry he couldn't be with you longer. Barbara Peskin, Lincoln, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 My poor sweet Neddie: My heart is broken over the pain you suffered, both physical and emotional, in your short life. If only the authorities had taken you sooner and brought you to sanctuary, you may have been saved. I pray that you will not have suffered and died in vain - that your life and death will come to represent a call to the world that other elephants should not suffer in circuses and that authorities need to act immediately to save them and get them to sanctuary. My tears flow for you, my Neddie, I will miss you and love you always. You will live in my heart forever. Joan, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Oh, Neddie, your precious body was just so very sick inside. I am overcome all over again by what you had to endure. My tears now are not because you left us, but that the damage inflicted had to have been so painful for you. I am so very sorry. I celebrate your release. Thank you TES, for the report. And for the gift of sanctuary for Ned, and for all that came before him, and for all that will come. Sending healing peace to your hearts. Ned's A.D., Sac, Ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 20, 2009 Words cannot describe how sad I am to hear of Bunny and Ned's passing. I find comfort in knowing that they got to spend their final days at the Sanctuary. Trumpet on Bunny and Ned. I will miss you both. Angel, Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Sweet and Gentle Ned- Rest assured that your life and death will not have been in vain. You have helped other elephants by raising the awareness of many globally through the sharing of your dire circumstances pre-sanctuary. You have also helped us to better understand the physiological and emotional causes of your inability to consume enough food to sustain you as well as your inability to absorb the nutrients from that food. Just know that while your spirit roams free in ele-heaven, elephants here on earth will benefit from your life and death. Namaste, precious Angel. I rejoice through my tears. Caite York, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 You were a beautiful gift of nature, Ned. I am glad that Carol brought you here..and I know that your time here was so good that you forgot every bit of the bad things that happened before. You warmed our hearts... Jane Tatum, Hohenwald, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Dear Ned, You are so handsome wearing your hat of hay. I knew it would be hard to say good-bye when you left TES, but I thought it would be when you completed your recovery. I'm so sorry your body was not able to heal fast enough to keep up with your intelligence and your curiosity. Every step you took toward realizing who and what you were - an elephant - was a joy. I smiled a big smile the day you reached up in the tree with your trunk and pulled off fresh new leaves - like a complete elephant. It breaks my heart to look at the pictures taken of you being "trained" to do tricks when you were so obviously emaciated. I can't understand how people could sit in the audience and watch you and not know there was something very wrong. I'm grateful that the pictures got the USDA involved. Had you not found your way to TES I'm sure you would have passed much sooner than you did and probably on a hard cold floor possibly all alone. I take comfort that that is not the way it happened. Instead you were surrounded by caretakers who truly loved you and did everything they could to make your passing as pain free as possible. I'll always remember you as the man of the manor and well gee, I've always been a pushover for a tall dark handsome guy like you. Rest in peace dear Ned. I'm so glad I got to know you. Love always. Pat, Salt Lake City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Dear Ned; I've been out of town and just now learned of your passing and that of dear Bunny. My heart aches for both of you - but you finally knew of the love and caring that people could give you. Thank God you spent your last days with so much love, caring and kindness. You were such a handsome fellow and showed joy and fun in so much that you did. That you were finally able to show such a wonderful and fun loving personality was and is an inspiration to all of us. And allows all of us to thank the wonderful people who cared for you and to thank God for such marvelous animals. You showed forgiveness and the ability to overcome the terrible things humans can do to animals. I loved you from the minute you got off that trailer and my heart sings with you as you come into and enjoy the life you now live - along with all of the other beautiful elephants who have gone before you, and who have awaited you and will show you a new and wonderful way of being. God bless you as I know He will. Kay Klein, Royal Oak, MD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 TES caregivers, every day after work I would click on Ned's link to see how he was doing. Thank you for making Ned's last days one of fresh air, good food, love, and beautiful views. I'll miss looking forward to Ned's next benchmark and Bunny's rare appearances. I am pleased that both elephants experienced human comfort and love from the great people at TES. Thank you for the work you do on behalf of all elephants but particularly Bunny and Ned. I sure miss them both... A, New Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 You left too soon but now you can all the hay and fruits you like without hurting. Thank you Ned for letting us get to know you. You will always be in our hearts! Zella, Jeff & Tommy D, Albuquerque, New Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 My dear Ned, I am dumbfounded to find out of your passing. My heart is heavy but glad at the same time to know you were with the people who love you and care for you, the TES. You were semi-free without any commands or shows... now you are truly free to run and be happy in spirit. May your spirit be with TES and all the people who try to help other elephants. I love you, Ned. BCP, Morganton, NC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Sweet Ned, I am going to miss checking up on you everyday. First thing each morning I would check the website to see if there was any news. Hoping to see you fat and sassy. I am so thankful that you experienced so much love and pampering during these past few months of Sanctuary. You will always be in my heart. Love and Blessings, Sweet Boy. Namaste Dear, Sweet Ned Tania, Haymarket, Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 May you walk today with Jesus, Ned... Godspeed your journey home. You were entrusted to the care of those who failed you and you are back with those who created you to be the perfect gentle giant you are. May your story serve to inspire others to save your kind from our kind until we learn compassion. Deborah, U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Rest in peace sweet pea. Donna Kellner, Clearwater, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 What will Gracie do without you? What will WE do without you? Thank you to all of those caring people that recognized that you needed help which in turn helped you to find TES for your final days. I keep checking to see if this is just a bad dream.. but nope.. you're gone and I'm gonna miss you. This experience has changed me in ways I can't describe. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU NED. Proud to be a NedHead, from California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 My Dear Sweet Neddie. Ned's condition did not just start two years ago. Somewhere along the way someone with some sense should have looked out for you. Elephants have a champion and she is our Miss Carol. God Bless you for trying to do what is right by these wondrous animals. So sad for you Ned. You should have still been here to enjoy a normal life as an elephant. Living at TES had to be a dream come true for you. It will forever break my heart to hear the story of our beloved Ned. Sherry, Williamsburg, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Rest in Peace Ned I am soo sorry that you never lived your whole life with freedom .... you will always be remembered and in out hearts ...love you soo much Ned ... you'll never be forgotten Claire Reeves, England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Oh, Ned, I am in tears for you and your pain, and also for our loss of your determined company. But for you, no more tummy aches now. Rest in peace. Patricia Clements, Goodlettsville, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 My heart breaks for you, my dear sweet Ned. May you now wear your crown of hay for all time. RIP my big friend. Lori, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Ned, you handsome boy! My eyes swell with tears and my heart is filled with sadness because of your short stay with us here on Earth. I regret that the USDA did not see your plight sooner. I hope your ailment is brought to light that it may help other Ele's with the same condition. My only solace is that you knew peace and sanctuary before you passed. I love you Ned and you will always be in my heart. Kelly Spencer, Middlesex, NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 One gentle giant who opened the eyes and hearts of millions! A true, honest gift of nature... Rest in Peace. Cathy, Maine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 We will miss you. We learned more about your needs and elephants needs in general. We learned we humans cannot take you out of your country and exploit you. We are very sorry Ned! We will try to educate others about your brothers and sisters in zoos and circuses held captive by Ringling Bros. circus and the Philadelphia zoo and others like them. We will tell all who listen that zoos and circuses are no place for elephants. They slowly abuse, and kill elephants both emotionally and physically. You will not be forgotten. We respect you and thank you for gracing our lives with your presence!! Love, Claudia Heart for Animals, http://www.meetup.com/heartforanimals/ Claudia Rose Emerson, NYC, and NJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 My heart and thoughts are with Bunny and Ned and everyone at the sanctuary. Losing Bunny and Ned so close together must be a pain too hard to bear. Thank you to everyone who cared for, loved, and watched over these dear friends of ours. How lucky for them that they had the sanctuary and peace at last! Roz Abramovitch, West Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Rest in peace, Ned. I hope your tragic life and untimely death sends a message to the world that humans will no longer tolerate the abuse, neglect and exploitation of circuses and zoos. You will be dearly missed, but your death will not be in vain. Many thanks to TES, for giving Ned a taste of the freedom and respect he deserved in the last months of his life. FREE BILLY FROM L.A. ZOO! CJ, Santa Monica, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Beautiful Ned, the Sanctuary will miss you. I am shedding tears of sadness and happiness for you. I am so sorry you had to experience the cruelty of mankind but happy that you did live among loving caretakers at the Sanctuary. You will be remembered. Penny, Union, Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Ned, I'm so sorry that your life was so short. I'm sorry for your pain both physical and spiritual. You had finally gotten to a place where people were going to give you that best opportunity for happiness but your poor body couldn't continue. I know there is a heaven and I know you are there. May you have eternal real elephant happiness. I am so angry at how humans dominate and oppress and cause so much pain to our animal friends. It is a sin they way you were forced to live. Andrea, Connecticut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 This morning I cried. I had so wanted you to regain your health and live many many more years at the sanctuary.I know you knew how much every one loved you. And I know your last home on earth was wonderful for you. If only your tummy would not have given you so much pain. But now my dear, you are pain free. Frolic in elephant heaven,trumpet your joy as you are know with your elephant family and friends again. I loved you sweet ned. You will forever be in my thoughts. Liz, Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 a trail of tears... it is bitter sweet he just had a few months of freedom & love at the Sanctuary. How grateful Ned must have been for that time, and to have a peaceful passing surrounded by friends. Thank you Sanctuary for taking care of Ned and sharing his story with the world. Peng Peng, Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 So happy your last few months you knew what love and compassion and freedom truly were. A huge fan, Dunedin, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Sweet, Ned...Rest in peace. It gives me great joy knowing that the wonderful people at the sanctuary showed you love and compassion in your last months of life. You deserved better, Ned. You should never have suffered the way you did. But, the greatest gift is knowing you left this earth having felt love, caring and gentleness. We know that god greeted you at the gates of heaven and wrapped his arms around you. You are safe and out of pain. We now have a beautiful angel we all love in heaven. Farewell beautiful Ned. You have touched so many and we all love and will miss you. xoxo Danielle and Taylor Paige, Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 When elephants fly... Smooth transitions sweet Ned, as you make your return to source. Knowing that you knew love and tenderness in your last months gives me joy, but today I cry as I read of your passing. Much love and peace, and liberation from the body that caused you such discomfort, as I hope you are now free from pain and eating everything in sight. You will never be forgotten. FLY and be free once again! Steph, Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Sweet Ned, at last you are not suffering. I am glad you were able to spend your last few months on earth in peace and with people dedicated to your care. Jennifer Romans, usa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 I will truly miss the all to short connection we had with Ned at TES. His presence and his journey in life was uplifted by the loving staff at the sanctuary. No more trials await you, Ned. You are free to roam in the company of the ones who have gone before you. Peace is with you now. Lori, Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 I am glad that Ned got to experience some joy and freedom at the TES. I love you Ned. Angie B., Terre Haute, IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 When I first learned about the sanctuary, and watched the video of Ned coming to TN, I cried. Watching him, so frail and thin, wishing I could do something to bring the pain to an end. I continue to pray for you Ned, and for the sanctuary and all of the people who work so lovingly and diligently to make sure these precious creatures are comfortable and safe. The Lord has you now Ned, and I'm so grateful for the blessing you have been here, and the one you will be there. Christy , Holley, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Hey. I remember seeing Ned at a circus about two or three years ago, and I heard about him being confiscated from his owner because he was being abused and it's hard to know now that he is gone. I was very happy about three weeks ago when my mom got an email saying he was taken away and in a better place now. But I went back to this website this morning and found out he was gone. I am sooo sad because it's hard to believe. But I'm glad he's in a better place and he had the last few months of his life in a good place, where he was NOT starved and NOT abused. Thank you to all the people who helped save Ned!!! I'm sure everyone will miss him... *crying inside*,, Dana Dana, Maine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 Sweet, precious boy. ann, ga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 You are now forever free Ned! Sophie, California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 oh ned! glad you finally experienced the love you deserved before leaving this world all too soon... beckie, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 May God bless you Ned marina cawley, fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 19, 2009 You were much too young to die my dear Ned. I am broken hearted and I grieve for you. I am saddened that you did not have a better and longer life. God Bless you, my sweet ellie. My tears are still falling. Judy Bratis, R.N., Los Angeles, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 Ned, Rest in Peace. I am at peace knowing you were at least allowed to pass in a place where you were surrounded by others who truly cared for you and truly loved you. I am so sad that you are gone, but I know you may truly rest now. You will be missed. Love you and miss you. Catherine Maldoff, Tampa, Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 Mahalo Nui Loa, Ned - I am crying tears of sadness at your passing. I miss you so much, and my heart is breaking. But I am also grateful that you passed with loving caretakers by your side, and having experienced 6 months of freedom and true sanctuary. We will never forget you, Ned. In your memory, we will work hard to promote awareness and effect positive change for elephants in captivity. Aloha Oe...Until We Meet Again, Linda, Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 Dearest Ned: It hurts my heart that you spent any time at all suffering while on this Earth. For what small consolation it may be, I send you my love, as do all of your friends worldwide. Peace on Earth and Sanctuary for All. Susannah, Silver Spring, MD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 On Ned, I just learned of your passing. I am so sad you left us so soon. I am glad you had moments of joy and comfort at TES at the end of your journey. Rest in peace. RIT, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 Dear sweet boy, I had hoped and prayed you would fully recover. At last your pain and suffering is over and you can roam free with all the other elephants who have passed before you. God bless you and all the wonderful care givers at the Sanctuary Whitney, So.Elgin, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 Ned, I just read about your story and I was deeply moved by it. I know you are in a safe place now and I am happy that after a life of abuse, you met kind, loving human beings who made the last act in your life an experience of kindness. I can see I share your birthday, and now I share my heart with you. Rest in peace, gorgeous. Antonio, Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 18, 2009 My family and I want