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Meet Cintia! She's one of Mission Animal Hospital's hard working volunteers. Cintia's hard work behind the scenes helps ensure that things run smoothly, and Mission can provide accessible veterinary care to as many pets as possible. We are so grateful for her dedication to Mission Animal Hospital. Learn more about Cintia and why she generously gives her time to help pets in need!
Why do you volunteer with Mission Animal Hospital?
I found at Mission the affordable and compassionate care I was in need of in 2018 when my 12yo kitty, Vicky - that came with me from Brazil - was sick (breast cancer) and had to have 2 surgeries. I was going through a rough time in my life and everyone was very kind to me. As soon as I got my life stabilized, I knew this was one of the best places I could “give back to” through my time and labor.
What's your favorite volunteer task in the hospital?
I love to prepare flush syringes, among challenging myself on getting laundry back to “zero” before I leave.
What do you do when you're not volunteering here?
I am a marketing manager for the mass markets division at Lumen Technologies, and also volunteer for MN ISSA (information technology) and a board member of Lumen Women Empowered Group. Also, I love live music and to snuggle my kitties and husband on the couch.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, 2 adopted kitties: Penelope (8yo from Brazil) and Frida (our 3yo American)
Tell us about a pet that had a big impact on your life.
In February 2012 in Brazil, a homeless lady was at the traffic light begging for medical care for her 4 month old stray sick puppy. I agreed with her to take him to a hospital and visit her shelter periodically with information about him. She unfortunately disappeared during the process but “Bear” (named by the hospital team) got healthy again and we attended several adoption events while he stayed with me. He was adopted 2 months later.
I was always an animal lover but that experience inspired my decision to be part of the help that they need as a volunteer with so many institutions I have had the pleasure work.
As a long term volunteer at Mission, what’s the most memorable moment in your time volunteering?
I will never forget a surgery on a Saturday morning when one of the patients unfortunately didn’t make it and several employees took turns entering the surgery room and saying their goodbyes to him. That moment defined to me why Mission is so special!