Oh no…” one caretaker whispered with concern. “What’s happening to his eye?”
Brianna, sensing something wasn’t right, held her baby even closer. She became anxious when the caretakers tried to examine him. She paced nervously, giving low warning grunts, trying to protect her newborn. But the staff knew they had to check on the baby’s condition — waiting could make things worse.
With great care and gentle handling, they managed to separate the baby for just a few minutes to assess the problem. What they found was likely an eye infection — something not uncommon in newborn monkeys, especially in the early days after birth. The irritation had caused his eye to become partially sealed shut, and it looked uncomfortable.
The good news? It was treatable.
Using a warm, sterile cloth, the caretakers gently cleaned around the eye and applied a small amount of medicated ointment prescribed by the sanctuary vet. The baby squirmed and let out tiny cries but soon calmed down when he was returned to Brianna’s arms. The mother immediately cuddled him close, licking his head gently, as if reassuring him that everything would be okay.
Over the next two days, the caretakers continued their careful treatment, always respecting Brianna’s space and calming her with soft voices and familiar scents. Each day, the swelling reduced slightly, and by the fourth day, the little baby monkey was finally able to open both eyes fully. The difference between the “before” — swollen, closed, and red — and the “after” — bright, curious, and healthy — was amazing.
The little one, now nicknamed “Blinky” by the staff, was soon back to being playful and alert. Brianna seemed more relaxed, and once again, they were a peaceful, content pair.
This touching moment reminded everyone of how fragile newborns are — and how much care and love it takes to help them thrive. It wasn’t just a medical recovery; it was a story of maternal devotion, quick action, and the beauty of healing.
