Reunited at Last: A Tortoise’s Journey Home
A Family’s Joyful Reunion After a Deadly Tornado Outbreak
KOKOMO, Miss. (AP) — Myrtle, a cherished pet tortoise, has been reunited with its family in Mississippi weeks after disappearing during a deadly tornado outbreak in March.
“He’s been through a lot,” said Myrtle’s grateful owner, Tiffany Emanuel. “I know that he knows just as much as I do that every step of the way I’m going to be there helping him, caring for him, making sure he gets, you know, the help that he needs.”
The Devastating Tornado Outbreak
The Emanuel family fled their home in the rural Kokomo area as a tornado hit on March 15. They returned to find two pine trees had fallen on top of their tortoise’s backyard home.
Myrtle was missing.
The family was devastated by the loss of their beloved pet, and the community was left to pick up the pieces after the deadly tornado outbreak. At least 37 people lost their lives in the disaster, and many more were left without homes or livelihoods.
A Glimmer of Hope
Weeks later, a neighbor found the injured tortoise. He was taken to the Central Mississippi Turtle Rescue for medical treatment on April 4.
“The lady who found the tortoise called me and she said she had run into the owners,” said Christy Milbourne, the organization’s founder and codirector. “She said, ‘I think they’re going to be calling you.’ So, I was excited, and then the owners did call and say, ‘Yeah, that’s my tortoise.‘”
A Joyful Reunion
Emanuel is now nursing Myrtle back to health.
“It feels good to kind of have some kind of happy out of so much sad and grief and loss,” Emanuel said.
The reunion has brought a sense of joy and hope to the Emanuel family, who are still recovering from the devastating effects of the tornado outbreak. Myrtle’s safe return is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility for happiness and reunion.
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Conclusion
Myrtle’s story is a testament to the power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being separated from his family during a devastating tornado outbreak, Myrtle was reunited with his owners, bringing joy and happiness to those who care about him. As the Emanuel family continues to rebuild and recover, they can take comfort in the knowledge that their beloved pet is safe and sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Myrtle during the tornado outbreak?
A: Myrtle, a pet tortoise, was separated from his family during a tornado outbreak in March. His backyard home was destroyed, and he was missing for several weeks.
Q: How was Myrtle found?
A: A neighbor found the injured tortoise and took him to the Central Mississippi Turtle Rescue for medical treatment.
Q: Is Myrtle okay?
A: Yes, Myrtle is currently being nursed back to health by his owner, Tiffany Emanuel. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Q: What can I do to help animals affected by natural disasters?
A: You can donate to animal rescue organizations, such as the Central Mississippi Turtle Rescue, or volunteer your time to help care for animals in need. Every little bit counts, and your support can make a big difference in the lives of animals like Myrtle.
