We humans have the power to make the world a better place. Yet, only a few truly act on it.
Katherine Connor is one of those rare individuals. She founded Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES), a safe haven for abused elephants. The name “Boon Lott” means “survivor” in Thai, fitting for a place where these majestic animals can finally feel at home.
One of the sanctuary’s residents was Boon Thong, a senior elephant who arrived after years of suffering.
The photo above captures a heart-wrenching moment of Boon Thong saying goodbye to her longtime friend. But soon, it was her turn to leave this world. This time, however, she experienced a farewell filled with love and respect—the kind of treatment every animal deserves.
Boon Thong had found an unlikely companion in her final days: a dog named Pancake. Pancake had also been abandoned and was a permanent resident at BLES. Despite their differences, the two formed a deep bond.
For 30 years, Boon Thong was forced to carry tourists. She was overworked and neglected. By the time she arrived at BLES, her body bore the scars of her past—she had only one working eye, her ears were torn, and her head was misshapen.
But at BLES, everything changed. Rescued at age 60, Boon Thong spent her remaining years in peace, surrounded by people who truly cared.
Then came Pancake’s unwavering loyalty. From the moment she sensed Boon Thong’s health declining, Pancake stayed by her side. Along with Katherine, the dog remained there for nine hours straight, never leaving Boon Thong—not until her very last breath.
Together, they reminisced about the sanctuary’s happier days. “Pancake, with that beautiful heart of hers, did not leave Katherine or Boon Thong once,” the sanctuary shared on Facebook. “She knew she was needed, offering quiet support until sunset—until the final breath.”
After Boon Thong passed, BLES gave her a dignified funeral. She was laid to rest near her elephant friends, her grave adorned with flowers and fruits as a final farewell.
At BLES, Boon Thong had lived a life of dignity. She enjoyed long walks in the jungle, had a favorite tree for scratching, and loved bathing in her special spot by the stream.
Katherine proved that one compassionate idea can change the world for the better.
