Zoo Hannover bids a permanent farewell to its former animal caretaker
In a heartwarming event, Saskia, a former zookeeper at the Hannover Zoo, paid a visit to her old workplace in July 2025. This visit, marked by a mix of nostalgia and poignancy, was made all the more special as Saskia is battling a terminal illness.
Accompanied by Sister Barbara, Holger, Steffi, and Daniel, Saskia took in the smells, exotic sounds, and vibrant life around the enclosures at the zoo. The day was a testament to the power of memories, as Saskia was amazed at how much the Hannover Zoo has changed over the years.
The ASB-Wish Vehicle Lower Saxony, a charitable organization dedicated to fulfilling the last wishes of terminally ill individuals, facilitated Saskia*'s visit. The organisation's efforts have not gone unnoticed, with many Facebook users deeply moved by Saskia's story. One user expressed their gratitude, stating that every story shared by the ASB-Wish Vehicle gives them goosebumps.
Users who wish to support the ASB-Wish Vehicle Lower Saxony can do so by visiting their website and making a donation. For those who know someone whose last wish the ASB-Wish Vehicle could fulfill, an online wish request form is available.
As Saskia's strength waned during her visit, she managed to maintain a positive spirit, spending a significant amount of time watching the gorillas and lions. The day seemed to bring a renewed energy to her, with Saskia smiling more as she covered each meter at the Hannover Zoo.
The ASB companions, moved by Saskia's spirit, gave her a small, soft plush lion as a parting gift. This heartfelt gesture added to the emotional day, making it a day bigger than Saskia's pain and something truly special.
The ASB-Wish Vehicle Lower Saxony continues to make a positive impact on the lives of terminally ill individuals, and more information about their work can be found on their website. For detailed current information about the ASB-Wish Vehicle's activities in Lower Saxony or any special events at Hannover Zoo involving them, direct inquiries to the zoo or the ASB in Lower Saxony might be necessary.
*Name changed for privacy reasons.
- Saskia, despite her terminal illness, found a reconnection with her lifestyle as she delved into home-and-garden settings at the Hannover Zoo, enjoying the vibrant life around the enclosures and reminiscing about her past as a zookeeper.
- Embracing sustainable living, Saskia's adventure-travel journey continued beyond the Hannover Zoo, as she virtualized her passions by supporting and fundraising for ASB-Wish Vehicle Lower Saxony from the comfort of her home, allowing others to experience a similar sense of fulfillment.
- Passionate about pets, Saskia's generous spirit encouraged others to participate in the same philanthropic practices by volunteering at local shelters, adopting homeless animals, and lending a helping hand to those in need, creating a lasting remashon of hope in the lives of many.
