Tessa

Tessa was near death when her guardian contacted Jungle Friends. Her glucose had skyrocketed to 1120; she had lost nearly half of her body weight and was difficult to wake. It was a race to get her glucose under control in time to save her life. Kari coached Tessa's guardian through the intensive process of establishing an insulin regimen and monitoring her progress. With insulin and a healthy diet, Tessa gained weight and when she was well enough to make the journey to Jungle Friends her guardian brought Tessa to the sanctuary. Her guardian planned to stay until Tessa was settled in -- our preferred method of acclimating new arrivals. Sometimes the presence of their guardians eases the transition to a new environment. This is especially important for diabetics, since stress will raise glucose levels. Tessa was responding so well, we thought it would be clear sailing to get this young monkey restored to health and settled in her new home. But Tessa was in for another huge setback -- her guardian left after only three days! Tessa was devastated. Fortunately for Tessa, Jungle Friends has a dedicated and compassionate carestaff who watched over her night and day. Tessa was weaned off insulin, weaned off humans and playing with the other monkeys! Her sunken eyes now shine bright. Tessa is having the time of her life at Jungle Friends romping and wrestling with other monkeys that call Jungle Friends home.

Jungle News Posts featuring Tessa

• Daily birthday wish Tessa Earl Chachi!