-
Twins Amber and Hope were born premature 20 minutes apart in June 2010 and were hurried to intensive care where their breathing was assisted while covered in bubble wrap.
-
But while Hope got stronger, Amber needed an emergency tracheotomy when she was weeks old
The emergency operation saved her life but restricted air to her vocal cords causing her to be mute and completely unable to express herself through laughter or words.
-
The family, from Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, visited The Donkey Sanctuary near their home, so Amber could pet the animals as therapy.
-
Amber developed a special bond with Shocks, who had been rescued from abuse, so Tracy, 39, took her daughter there as often as possible.
-
Parents Julian and Tracy could not have anticipated just how effective the therapy would be and after several visits their mute daughter started to talk.
Amber amazed her family when she said her first words – "I love you" to Donkey Shocks
-
Mother Tracy loved the sanctuary so much that she now works there meaning the family have grown only closer to the rescued donkey.
She said: 'When we have a study club at the sanctuary Amber will always visit Shocks and she still sees him whenever she can. He's part of the family now he's really lovely and so patient with Amber"
-
For a weekly dose of animal-themed community challenges - Subscribe to our Newsletter!
Can't get enough of ICanHasCheezburger? Find us on Instagram!
Tags
Scroll down for the next article