Fifteen Years - Seventeen Thousand Lives

A message from Fabienne on this extraordinary and happy day ...

Fabienne with her beloved Max

It's hard to believe and to comprehend, but today we are 15 years old. Together with Ton, with Dirk and with so many other people we started something. We had no idea where it would lead us. We wanted to change things, to do something about the misery that we saw then and which still surrounds us every day.

And we have made a difference. We had to give up a lot, personally, but it was worth it. And it has made a difference to 17,000 lives and even more. We did it. It was our goal and we did it.

Meanwhile our ACE/SHIN  has become an organization where many people work together, and fight to save the animals. Out of our organization many other organizations have been born, all made up of people with their hearts in the right place.

But we are all human and working together and continuing to do so is hard and not always possible to sustain. And so you see people come and go. But there has not been a day when we have abandoned the dogs. Not for one minute. However difficult, however heavy emotionally, we always kept our initial goal in sight. Rescuing animals in need.

Thank you to all who have taken part in this task. Thank you for everyone who has contributed in any way, whether you are still working with us or have long since gone your own way. We are grateful to every single person who accompanied us on our path. No matter how long or short a time you were with us, thank you to everyone who has helped us get where we are today. Our sincere thanks.

So, now we will continue with our big dream. We will not give up. We will go forward lustily, all together, for the next 15 years. Life is a stage, and we are the extras, living through a concert where you are given no programme, where you take what is thrown at you every day.

Saved from death, neglect or from other unold miseries our dogs are a constant source of joy. Each time you cuddle them, see them play and run around, join in the fun at home or elsewhere, you realise that they are the loveliest creatures you will ever meet. They make that difference. A difference you will only know if you allow them into your life.

I love what I do. It's not easy. It's not always appreciated. But for people like us, it's more than worth it ... and we go through it together!!

And tomorrow people, healthy again, with your sweetheart in your arms. Life goes on. This is how you fill yourself up with success and courage !!

We do not give up !!

Fabienne

Fabienne with Diva, so special - the very first dog she rescued 

With Max, Christmas 2013