This special day was also sponsored by Dawn Garcia and Jo Arroyo in memory and celebration of Mel’s life, as well as for the caregivers in his life. Dawn and Jo shared these thoughtful sentiments:

“We would like to honor the caregivers – those of CSNW who give their time to enrich the lives of the Cle Elum 7 and those at the Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, GA.  Mel spent the remainder of his days engaging in a fun and friendly relationship with one of his nurses Ben.  In ICU RED, nurse Telly and physician’s assistant Tatum, kept Mel comfortable and were also warm and caring to me and Jo. I know there were more caregivers involved and we thank them for their loving hearts. Mel would smile at this honor – having a celebration with the chimps on the day he was born- January 30th. Cheers to caregivers everywhere!”

Thank you so much, Dawn and Jo! All of the primates here at CSNW are truly honored to be included in such a special day.

Negra enjoying her time in the sun:

Happy Birthday, Dr. Mel!! We miss you. The world and so many lives won’t be the same without you, but are all so much better because of you.