From Ground Zero to Sanctuary: The Journey Begins
For 12 days, I shared the story of how my life went from Ground Zero to Sanctuary. It’s a journey I never expected to take, yet it shaped every part of who I am today. As a result, this series shows the long road from trauma to purpose. I went from standing in the ruins of September 11th to building a sanctuary that now helps thousands. In addition, you can learn more about our mission here: https://staging.rfpsinc.com
Meanwhile, for context on the events of 9/11, you may want to explore the 9/11 Memorial & Museum:
https://www.911memorial.org
The 12-Day Ground Zero to Sanctuary Breakdown
Each day reveals how service transformed my life. In fact, it took me from Ground Zero to a place built for safety and healing. Furthermore, you can meet our flock and see their stories here: https://staging.rfpsinc.com/adopt
Additionally, if you want official historical archives related to September 11th, here is the National Archives page:
https://www.archives.gov/research/9-11
Day 1: Historical Turning Points (September 11th, 2001)
Day 2: The First Response (A month at Ground Zero)
Day 3: The Lasting Toll (PTSD, survivor’s guilt, 18 years of trauma)
Day 4: A Different Kind of Calling (Wildlife rescue)
Day 5: Skills That Transfer (Firefighting to wildlife rescue)
Day 6: Magic’s Wisdom (Birds became my therapy)
Day 7: Kiki’s Courage (Learning to fly again — emotionally and literally)
Day 8: Stormy (The September 12th spirit of unity)
Day 9: The Weight of Service (2019, the breaking point)
Day 10: The Flock’s Personality (Joy after trauma)
Day 11: Transformation Testament (A living memorial through service)
Day 12: The Heart of Service (Why I keep serving)
Why This Ground Zero Survivor Story Matters
Every chapter helps explain why Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary exists today. It was never a business; instead, it became a lifeline. When trauma tries to take everything, sometimes the only way forward is to give something back. That’s why you can see that spirit in our rescue updates: https://staging.rfpsinc.com/category/wildlife-rescue
Moreover, for wildlife rehabilitation information, visit the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association:
https://www.nwrawildlife.org
For me, the journey meant trading ash and sirens for feathers and healing. Eventually, I learned that service didn’t end at Ground Zero. It simply changed uniforms.
Service That Continues: From Trauma to Sanctuary
Two decades later, I am still serving. Now I have 200 parrots at my side, a strong community behind me, and a mission that grows each year. Consequently, you can explore more of our history here:
https://staging.rfpsinc.com/category/over-the-years
Also, for excellent bird behavior and education resources, you can explore the Cornell Lab of Ornithology:
https://www.birds.cornell.edu
Finally, thank you for being part of this journey. Above all, thank you for supporting our work and helping turn loss into something that saves lives every day. 🦜💙
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