Rae Lani, a senior living in a remote area of Maui, faced an agonizing choice when her declining health made it necessary for her family to consider moving her to Minnesota. There was one thing standing in the way--the disabled chickens she had rescued and lovingly cared for.

Rae Lani refused to leave her home if it meant abandoning the animals who depended on her. No matter how difficult the situation became, she was determined to make sure her beloved chickens would be safe.

Thankfully, Rae Lani’s sister, Judith, and niece, Allie, completely understood. They shared her concern and were determined to find a solution that would allow Rae Lani to move without ever having to worry about what would happen to her animals.

After many dead ends, the family was referred to Leilani Farm Sanctuary. Although the Sanctuary was already at capacity with chickens, we made an exception and were grateful we could help. Our aviary was well equipped to provide a safe, loving home for special-needs chickens.

The family was nearly overwhelmed with a sense of relief. After countless sleepless nights spent worrying and searching for answers, they finally knew the chickens would be safe, loved, and taken care of for the rest of their lives.

Two days later, Rae Lani, Judith, and Allie arrived at the Sanctuary with the beloved birds. As they walked toward the aviary, they saw happy, well-cared-for animals and immediately knew they had found the right place.

“You saved my sister’s heart!” Judith told us.

Before saying goodbye, Rae Lani gave the rooster, one final cuddle and kiss. She sang a special song to him, reassuring him that everything would be okay.

For Rae Lani, knowing her chickens were safe meant everything. And for us, it was a powerful reminder of how deeply people love the animals who depend on them—and how important it is to make sure those bonds are honored, even when life brings difficult changes.

Watch three short videos below.

A Goodbye Song