Laura Zitzelberger, a passionate animal lover, spent 36 years dedicated to caring for birds and various wildlife species. Unfortunately, in 2011, despite being a non-smoker, she received a devastating diagnosis of a lung disease triggered by allergens commonly found in birds. This diagnosis eventually led to the necessity of a lung transplant, forcing Laura to bid farewell to her cherished pet parrot of 23 years and step back from her life’s work.
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The journey of Laura’s animal care began in 1989 at the Toledo Zoo, where she first met her husband, Tom Zitzelberger, while working at the zoo’s panda exhibit. Subsequently, she became involved in wildlife rehab at Nature’s Nursery, participating in the rescue and rehabilitation of various animals. Over the years, Laura and Tom zealously cared for a myriad of wildlife species, including birds ranging from hummingbirds to eagles, and even opening their home to wild baby animals in need.
Despite her deep connection to animals, Laura’s health took a severe turn in 2008 when she developed a persistent cough. It was not until 2011, after a lung biopsy, that she was diagnosed with chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, an allergy-induced lung condition often caused by exposure to allergens, including birds. Her doctors advised her to eliminate the allergen, which meant giving up her beloved pet parrot and stepping away from her role as the operations director at Nature’s Nursery — a decision that weighed heavily on her heart.
The road to recovery included reducing her hands-on involvement with the animals, focusing instead on remote tasks to safeguard her health. However, as her condition worsened, becoming increasingly reliant on oxygen, Laura was faced with the daunting reality of needing a lung transplant. Placed on the transplant list in 2023, she underwent the life-saving procedure in December of the same year, receiving a double lung transplant at the Cleveland Clinic.
The transplant brought both relief and changes to Laura’s life. Though she could no longer work at the rescue center in person, she continues to contribute remotely by training volunteers, managing the non-profit’s social media, and offering support after hours. Despite missing her hands-on work deeply, Laura acknowledges the importance of prioritizing her health to honour the donor’s gift of life that she received.
Laura’s resilience and unwavering dedication to animal welfare serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing her strength in facing adversity while staying true to her passion. Her story reminds us of the sacrifices often made in the pursuit of a greater good, and the profound impact that love for animals can have on one’s life, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.
Laura’s unwavering commitment to both her health and her lifelong passion for helping animals exemplifies the power of determination and resilience in overcoming unexpected obstacles. Her journey stands as a testament to the profound bond between humans and animals, demonstrating the enduring impact of love and care in the face of adversity.