At this year’s VMX, the world’s premier veterinary expo in Orland, FL, the critically acclaimed star and director of Dances With Wolves, Field of Dreams, and television’s Yellowstone gave an emotional speech to the people of the veterinary world who have touched the lives of hearts of billions of people around the world, including his own.
As a talented actor, Kevin Costner undoubtedly could have wowed the crowds with dramatics and cliches. Instead, he spoke plainly, the simplicity of his words conveying more emotion than any rehearsed performance ever could. When he described his experience of sitting on the ground with the veterinary team, giving treats and comfort as they helped his dog make his final journey, it was clear that he was speaking from the heart and not from a script. At that moment, he was a grieving pet owner, not a world-renowned Hollywood star.
His tribute to the veterinary profession kicked off the VMX weekend, with its usual packed schedule and myriad of exhibitors that keep the vet world on the cutting edge of research, development, and patient care. Hosted by the NAVC (North American Veterinary Community), this event was also an opportunity for people to get out their checkbooks (figuratively speaking!) and make a donation to support animals affected by the catastrophic California wildfires. Not only is the NAVC raising funds on behalf of the Pasadena Humane Wildfire Relief Fund, but they have also offered to match donations of up to $25,000.
Although the fires have finally been brought under control, with
- 51,818 Total Emergency Responses
- 331 Wildfires
- 57,637 Acres Burned
- 29 Known Fatalities
- 16,255 Structures Destroyed
Source: Cal Fire
The true cost of this disaster is only starting to be seen.
It is never too late to help an animal in need, so if you would like to make a donation, you can do so by following this link to their website.
Devastation and Hope
If there is one thing that shines through disasters like this, it’s that when tragedy strikes, people are unified by their willingness to help. We have seen that no one is immune to the devastation of these wildfires, with seemingly untouchable celebrities rendered homeless in their wake. In fact, Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey was originally scheduled to speak at the VMX conference but was unable to attend due to the fires.
With the help and support of the NAVC, and people like Mr Costner, we can start to repair what has been broken and heal those who have been hurt.
