We all know that Dr. Mindy Cohan loves animals - she's a veterinarian after all! But what many of you might not know is that Dr. Mindy loves Africa and just returned from an African Safari where she got to see all kinds of animals of the jungle - up close and (very) personal! From walking with gorillas to feeding giraffes and hanging with the elephants ... it was quite the adventure and she stopped by the Kids Corner studios to share her stories with us. We asked Dr. Mindy why she wanted to go to Africa and here is her reply:
“All I wanted to do was get back to Africa. We had not left it, yet, but when I would wake in the night I would lie, listening, homesick for it already.
― Ernest Hemingway, Green Hills of Africa
Hemingway’s words perfectly capture my sentiments about Africa. Everything about the continent from the majestic landscapes to the fascinating cultures to the exotic and beautiful wildlife transcends one’s wildest dreams. Africa has beckoned me since my childhood and I am so grateful that I have now had the opportunity to fulfill my lifelong dream twice. Our first trip, three years ago, through Tanzania and the Masai Mara of Kenya was amazing, but I felt frustrated in merely observing the animals. Our recent trip was particularly incredible as I was able to interact with elephants, giraffes, rhinos and warthogs. Observing Vervet Monkeys and Rock Hyraxes up close was thrilling. After seeing my trip photos, many have said that they are placing Africa on their “bucket list.” For anyone with a deep love and appreciation of animals, Africa promises to be a trip of a lifetime.
Here are the links for the Lewa Conservancy and the Elephant Orphanage that Dr. Mindy mentions in the chat above.
