South Africans from all walks of life are mourning the loss of Cindy, a beloved baboon whose life story, personality and bond with her human family touched thousands of hearts both locally and internationally. Cindy was peacefully put to rest on Sunday following a long and courageous battle with severe illness, leaving behind an outpouring of grief and gratitude from those who followed her journey.
The heartbreaking news was shared by her human brother, Ruben Lambrechts, who explained that the difficult decision was made in consultation with veterinarians to prevent Cindy from suffering further. According to Ruben, Cindy had been struggling with severe heart failure, which caused repeated episodes of pulmonary oedema — a condition where fluid builds up in the lungs, making breathing increasingly difficult.
Despite intensive veterinary treatment, medication, oxygen therapy and round-the-clock care, Cindy’s condition continued to deteriorate. After her third serious health crisis, Ruben and his family made the painful but compassionate choice to let her go peacefully.
“In her final moments, we were holding her hand, speaking to her, and surrounding her with love,” Ruben shared. “She was not just an animal — she was a sister, a family member and a mother figure to our other animals.”
Cindy’s life was one filled with love, resilience and unforgettable memories. She became widely known after Ruben began sharing videos of life on the farm while working in Windhoek. What started as a way to stay connected to home soon grew into a viral sensation on TikTok, with millions of people captivated by the animals’ unique personalities.
One particularly popular video featured warthog Betsie playing with Jerry the meerkat, set to a Lion King soundtrack. The clip spread rapidly across social media, turning the Simmenau farm animals into global internet stars and bringing Cindy’s story to audiences far beyond South Africa’s borders.
Cindy’s journey began three decades ago when Ruben’s mother, Barista, rescued her as an orphaned baby baboon after her mother was shot on a neighbouring farm. Her early years were challenging, and she quickly became known for her mischievous behaviour and notorious kleptomania. On the farm, nothing that wasn’t firmly secured was ever truly safe from Cindy’s curious hands.
Yet behind her playful antics was a deeply affectionate and intelligent animal who grew into the heart and soul of the farm. Over the years, Cindy became a matriarch — a steady presence whose bond with her human family symbolised compassion, coexistence and respect for wildlife.
Ruben expressed heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of supporters who followed Cindy’s life and sent messages of love during her final days. “The kindness and support meant more than words can ever express,” he said. “Cindy was deeply loved every single day of her life, and she will be loved forever.”
As tributes continue to pour in, Cindy is remembered not only as a baboon, but as a powerful reminder of the profound connections that can exist between humans and animals. Her legacy will live on through the memories she created and the joy she brought to people across the world.
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