LWC’s SPECIAL SUPPORTER

“I clearly remember the conversation: We were first-time volunteers at the Limbe Wildlife Centre at the end of 2008 beginning of 2009. The experience we were having had such a wonderful impact on us that we shared inspired thoughts and dreams of “what’s next” and “how can I do more”. For Liesbeth VAN DER BURGT, it meant creating Stichting Weesaapjes, although the name was not chosen yet. We stayed in touch, communicating monthly if we could. She detailed projects that she was working on, for the animals she so dearly loved at LWC, and the progress she was making. One time she recounted frustration with the grassroots fundraising effort – a grocery store near her home in the Netherlands. It was difficult for her to come to terms with the few people who didn’t share the same empathy, kindness, or connection that she shared with the animals. Yet, she persevered, other like-minded people stepped in to help and her foundation started to grow. More than once, Liesbeth and I talked about the patience sometimes needed to complete projects. I reminded her that - unforeseeable obstacles happen, that we, from the “Western world”, are not accustomed to. Liesbeth pressed on with urgency. Looking back now, I see that time as the urgency of someone who was running out of time. She put all her time and effort into caring for the animals. She passed away in August 2016. I am grateful to Limbe Wildlife Centre for adding this commemoration plaque for Liesbeth and Stichting Weesaapjes near the bridge and Savanah-dwelling guenon enclosure, the last two projects were completed with help from the donors of Liesbeth’s foundation”. By Tricia Gillet, friend of Liesbeth