Tiny Owl Helps Raise $19K for Rescuer Battling Cancer

A tiny owl the size of a banana is giving back to the woman who saved her life.

The saw-whet owl, the smallest species in New England, was found unable to fly in a Massachusetts driveway in late February. Newhouse Wildlife Rescue in Chelmsford took her in and discovered both her wings were broken.

The little bird needed specialized care, so Newhouse transferred her to Cape Ann Wildlife in Ipswich. There, founder Jodi carefully wrapped the owl's injured wing, preparing her for months of rehabilitation ahead.

But Jodi was fighting her own battle. She had recently undergone surgery for lung cancer and was struggling through a difficult recovery.

Despite her own pain, Jodi still showed up to help the owl. That selfless act inspired Newhouse Wildlife Rescue to do something extraordinary in return.

The organization launched a Facebook fundraiser to support Cape Ann Wildlife, which was running low on funds while Jodi focused on her health. They shared the story of the tiny owl alongside Jodi's dedication to wildlife, even in her darkest moment.

Sunny's Take

This story captures everything beautiful about the wildlife rescue community. For years, Jodi has saved countless animals, always putting their needs first. Now, one of those animals is helping save her back.

The response has been overwhelming. The fundraiser has raised over $19,000 at publication, helping keep Cape Ann Wildlife running while Jodi heals. A separate GoFundMe started by Jodi's daughter has also raised over $19,000 toward her $22,000 medical expense goal.

"The women there have always been so helpful and have saved animals that I honestly wasn't sure could be saved," Newhouse wrote about Cape Ann Wildlife. "Their time and dedication is incredible."

The tiny owl continues her recovery at Cape Ann Wildlife, where her broken wings are slowly healing. In a few months, if all goes well, she'll be released back into the wild.

Meanwhile, Jodi's daughter says her mom remains the same selfless person she's always been. "Jodi is a wonderful, selfless woman whose life's calling is wildlife rehabilitation," she wrote. "Now she needs our help more than ever."

The story shows how kindness creates circles that come back around when we need them most.