Kristine Ledford has always had a fascination with gorillas, and she’s probably purchased Gorillas in the Mist more than five times.
When she was younger, she was compared to a little monkey, and her nickname was Monkey Monk. She was tiny; she actually slept with a monkey until after she was 5 years old.

Who’s been raised in ministry, Peace Corps volunteering, and feeding the homeless. A mother of two and a grandmother of three. And can’t wait to go to the Congo and raise money we need so Kristine can visit the Congo and the gorillas and Dian’s organization.

Before her gorilla exhibit of paintings from Jane Goodall to Diane’s gorillas and exhibits.

Their photos will be turned into paintings and art and will be donated later as an exhibit fund for Sabian Inn, preserving the gorillas. And wildlife.
Dian Fossey was an American primatologist and conservationist renowned for her extensive study and unwavering dedication to protecting mountain gorilla groups in the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda. Her impactful work spanned nearly two decades, from 1966 until her untimely death in 1985.

Here are some key highlights of her life and work:

Pioneering research and conservation efforts

  • Fossey began observing mountain gorillas at the Karisoke Research Center, which she founded in 1967, located between the peaks of Karisimbi and Bisoke.
  • Through innovative, empathetic methods, including mimicking gorilla behaviors, she earned the trust of these creatures and habituated them to her presence.
  • Her groundbreaking research provided invaluable insights into gorilla behavior, social structures, and communication, challenging previous misconceptions about their nature and revealing them as dignified, social beings with individual personalities and strong family bonds.
  • Fossey’s dedication intensified after the killing of her favorite gorilla, Digit, by poachers in 1977. In response, she established the Digit Fund (now the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International) to finance anti-poaching patrols and actively protect the gorillas.

Legacy and impact

  • Fossey’s work played a pivotal role in reversing the decline of the mountain gorilla population, which has seen a significant increase since her time.
  • Her book, “Gorillas in the Mist” (1983), and the subsequent film adaptation (1988) brought the plight of mountain gorillas to international attention, fostering widespread empathy and support for their conservation.
  • The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International continues her work, focusing on research, gorilla protection, education, and community development programs.

Challenges and Controversies

  • Fossey’s strong stance against poaching and her at times aggressive methods led to conflicts with local communities and authorities.
  • Sadly, she was found murdered in her cabin at Karisoke in 1985, a crime that remains unsolved.

Dian Fossey’s legacy is undeniable. She not only transformed our understanding of mountain gorillas but also inspired global conservation efforts and laid the groundwork for the successful gorilla tourism industry that benefits local communities and fuels conservation today.