Guillermina’s path to processing Pocha’s loss is her own, and she’s handling it in the way that she knows best. Being so young, she naturally has higher and more playful energy, which hasn’t gone away. But it is balanced with more thoughtful moments, as well. It’s natural for a young elephant to experience a whole range of emotions when learning to navigate life without her mother.
There is a beauty in being able to find one’s way through grief at sanctuary, because there is space for Guille to take time to herself when she’s processing emotions that might be intense. Sometimes, if Guillermina is trying to work through strong feelings she might need to walk away to burn off that energy. Sanctuary offers plenty of room and time to do that, whenever she chooses. But the other elephants also allow her to channel that energy through casual interaction or play, if that’s what is needed.
There have been some light moments where she gets cheeky and starts to vocalize, which we believe is a good sign. She doesn’t seem to be in denial about what has happened and she definitely shows moments of sorrow, but she hasn’t lost herself in her grief and still finds ways to express a playful emotion if that’s what she’s feeling. We can’t predict how her emotions might deepen or evolve over time but, at the moment, she continues to receive support from the other elephants and is building upon those relationships in a positive way, as they continue to support her through this time. None of us know what Guillermina is going through – not even the other elephants can fully understand. But they are giving her grace to decide what she needs to feel and when, which is lovely to see and perfectly elephant.
P.S.: The independent necropsy team has informed us that preliminary results on the cause of Pocha’s death will not be available until next week at the earliest. As soon as we have more information, we will share it with you.
Photo of Guillermina
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Pam says
October 13, 2022 at 2:16 pmThank you so much for this update on Guillermina. Sending love to her and to all who are grieving dear Pocha’s passing.
Jan Russell says
October 13, 2022 at 2:21 pmThank you so much for these updates…
Love to read them ,and wonderful to keep up to date on these beautiful elephants journey ❤️
Carey says
October 13, 2022 at 2:28 pmThank you very much for your update on Guille, appreciate it. Best wishes to all
Deanna says
October 13, 2022 at 2:35 pmMay light shine on you sweet Guille , Mama is watching over you ❤️🙁🕊. I love you Guillermina 🐘🙏🏻
Katherine says
October 13, 2022 at 2:44 pmStrong girl
Maureen Graven says
October 13, 2022 at 3:06 pmI can not begin to imagine what Guille would be going thru now if she was isolated in that pit. I am so grateful she has the Sanctuary, the support of her aunts, and all of you to help her navigate this monumental (for her) event. She has grown so incredibly much in such a short amount of time. I know this part is my emotions showing thru but if I could, I would love to give her a hug ❤️. Each of our girls brings a different dynamic to this growing herd and I feel honored to be able to watch it grow. Guilty is in my thoughts right now, wishing her peace and love. ❤️
Patricia says
October 13, 2022 at 4:33 pmMy darling baby girl Guille, my heart is with you all the time.
Zoi Flores says
October 13, 2022 at 4:53 pmThe way they take care of each other is admirable! Too much ch to learn from them. 💖
Wim says
October 13, 2022 at 4:58 pmMay she find balance in her new situation.
Being the biggest souls on earth loss will never be a homerun for elephants. I believe its their special kind of magic that helps them survive.
Brightest Blessings Guillermina.
Viviana Gallo says
October 13, 2022 at 5:29 pmGracias por compartir el estado de Guillermina. Todos estamos muy pendientes de la pequeña en este tiempo tan especial.
Alana says
October 13, 2022 at 5:46 pmI know it’s been said a thousand times, I’m just so glad they made it to GSB!
Alice says
October 13, 2022 at 6:00 pmThank you so much for keeping us updated on Guillermina. I have been worried about her, but I know she is in the best of care and therefore will get through this.
Nancy says
October 13, 2022 at 6:02 pmI feel pride for Guill
María Elizabeth Alvarez says
October 13, 2022 at 6:06 pmI really thank you for the update!!! God bless you, Guille and the rest of the girls.
Debbie Sides says
October 13, 2022 at 6:08 pmI’m so grateful she has the others to support her. And it’s good to know she can be playful if she feels spunky and also to go through all the emotions she’s feeling. Bless her💚
Beji says
October 13, 2022 at 6:13 pmMy beloved husband of 25 years died and I’m still processing the emotions and grief…My heart goes out to you, sweet girl
Sara says
October 13, 2022 at 6:15 pmOur thoughts are with you. Thanks for all of your support.
Susy says
October 13, 2022 at 7:16 pmGracias por compartir el proceso de Guille o lo que imaginan que está sintiendo y como lo puede estar viviendo. Leer es llorar, imagino tanta angustia, desorientación. Vivieron tan juntas las dos, que se parte mí corazón de presentir lo que puede estar pasando, más allá de los juegos y de la vida diaria. Estamos esperando ese informe. Mañana una semana de que Pocha se fue, a la dimensión de los elefantes libres y amados en la tierra, pero nunca respetados y valorados. Un abrazo gente.
Tammy says
October 13, 2022 at 7:23 pm💞Beautiful💞
Bonnie says
October 13, 2022 at 8:32 pmThank you for sharing she looks tired in the picture but you are wright not you all or any of us know how she is griefing but I believe with all my heart and with her Auntie’s help she will be fine and who knows maybe even stronger in mind and soul
Terry says
October 13, 2022 at 9:08 pmFeel our love baby girl!!! Our energy of Love and Light surrounds you in every breath you take!!!
JoAnn Merriman-Eaton says
October 13, 2022 at 10:15 pmSo very thankful this did not happen while she was in the pit with her mama, and very thankful she has her herd mates for distraction and support. Guillermina is still a baby on a new journey without her constant companion and mama. She will find her own path to healing with the loving care of the entire staff at ESB, and her herd sisters. R.I.P. dear sweet mama Pocha.
Monica Crespo says
October 13, 2022 at 10:42 pmThanks for the update. I am glad she is processing her loss in what appears to be a healthy way. I am glad she has your support and the support of the other girls as well!
Pierrette Walraevens says
October 14, 2022 at 3:30 amThank you so much for the update of Sweet Guille ❤️ I think te way Guille’s reaction is normal grieving sadness but also anger but to now she has all of you and the girl will help her to going true this sad lost of her Beautiful mum Pocha 💔🥰🐘🥰❤️😥😥 and we all Love that Sweet girl so much ❤️ Love you darling Guille be strong lovely girl ❤️🐘🐘😘🥰❤️
John says
October 14, 2022 at 8:29 amI WISH I could convey how much GSE has meant to me since I discovered you a couple of years ago with Bambi’s move. If I’m having trouble falling asleep I think about a recent post and how good it made me feel – maybe how it made me laugh, or made me cry. It’s added so much to my life. You people are incredible, as are the ellies!
Sara says
October 14, 2022 at 10:00 amThank you so much for that – and especially for your support. We couldn’t do what we do without dedicated supporters like you. Here’s to more in the future!
Victor Proulx says
October 14, 2022 at 12:11 pmWho was Pocha? Stick with elephants, don’t go into communication.
Sara says
October 14, 2022 at 2:15 pmPocha was one of our most recent elephant arrivals. She passed away last week.
Jillyp says
October 14, 2022 at 3:17 pmThank God they were settled (relatively) at sanctuary when this happened! Sweet Guille, keep the memories of your dear mama Pocha and lean on your new herd 💞❤️🩹🐘💝
Mama says
October 28, 2022 at 9:46 amBless you ALL. : )
Tammy says
November 12, 2022 at 2:31 pmWell said Terry 💞
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