A Compassionate Act Goes Viral
A heartwarming incident involving a 12-year-old boy in Ethiopia has recently garnered significant online attention. Markos Abaye, who developed a deep bond with animals while growing up in a rural area, became concerned when his pet chicken fell ill and did not respond to home remedies. In an earnest attempt to help his beloved bird, Markos took the chicken to Denbecha Primary Hospital in the Amhara region, believing it was the appropriate place for medical care.
The Hospital Visit and Online Reaction
A nurse at the hospital, Umer Chane, captured a video of Markos cradling the sick chicken and expressing his worries. In the clip, Markos can be heard telling the nurse, "She is wheezing." Nurse Chane gently informed Markos that the hospital was for humans and advised him to seek a veterinarian. Unbeknownst to Markos, veterinary services were available in Denbecha, and he later took the chicken to a vet for treatment.
The video, shared on TikTok, quickly accumulated over 770,000 views, resonating with many Ethiopians who were touched by Markos's profound compassion for his pet.
"My chicken is better now. I'm going to give her the 12 eggs I saved so she can hatch them."
Markos Abaye
A Special Bond and Family Background
Markos's uncle and guardian, Kelemework Amogne, explained the depth of the boy's attachment to the chicken. He recounted how Markos was so distressed by the chicken's illness that he struggled with his studies and eating. Kelemework described Markos's meticulous care for the bird, noting how he observed its movements, studied its footprints, and even constructed small bridges over ground holes to prevent it from falling.
Markos came to live with his uncle in August 2023 after conflict erupted in Amhara, prompting his grandparents to send him away for safety. The chicken was a parting gift from his grandparents. His uncle mentioned that Markos's affection for chickens extends to his neighbors' birds, which he also feeds.
Recognition and Future Opportunities
Nurse Umer Chane, who recorded the viral video, shared his impression of Markos: "I could see the kindness in his face. He hugged the chicken tightly, worried about her condition, even as others tried to make fun of him." While Markos initially felt embarrassed by the laughter he encountered at the hospital, his family only learned of his actions when they saw the video online. His uncle reflected on the experience, saying, "He thought of a hospital as one that could treat both people and animals," and expressed his astonishment at the overwhelming positive response.
Following the widespread attention the story received, a local poultry company announced its intention to donate 100 chickens to Markos and provide him with training in poultry farming, offering a significant opportunity for the young animal lover.
Source: Boy, 12, wins hearts after trying to check sick chicken into Ethiopian hospital