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By Sahr Sarfraz A visit to Lahore Zoo recently brought back memories of one of its most beloved residents, Suzi, whose monument continues to preserve the legacy of an elephant that remained close to the hearts of visitors for nearly three decades. Founded in 1872, Lahore Zoo is among Pakistan’s oldest zoological institutions and has witnessed generations of animals becoming part of the city’s collective memory. However, few managed to capture public affection quite like Suzi. The African elephant arrived at Lahore Zoo in 1988 and soon became one of its most popular attractions. Families, schoolchildren and tourists regularly gathered around her enclosure, fascinated by her gentle nature and calm presence. Suzi was more than an animal on display. Over the years, she developed a special relationship with her keepers, who cared for her and became familiar faces in her daily life. Visitors also grew accustomed to seeing her during school trips, holidays and weekend outings. Her popularity was reflected in the affection with which people remembered her. At times, her name was painted on her forehead alongside Pakistan’s crescent and star, a gesture that reflected the special place she held in the hearts of Lahore’s residents. For thousands of visitors, seeing Suzi became part of growing up in the city. Children who first encountered her during school trips later returned with their own families, creating memories that crossed generations. Suzi died on May 13, 2017, after suffering from leg-related health problems. Her death left many visitors and zoo workers grieving, particularly those who had known her for years. Today, a monument at Lahore Zoo stands as a tribute to the elephant who once occupied the area. Although her former enclosure has since become home to other animals, including a white rhinoceros and a hippopotamus, the sculpture keeps Suzi’s memory alive. Standing before the monument offers a quiet opportunity to reflect on the connection that can develop between people and animals. In a rapidly changing city, the memorial serves as a reminder of a life that brought happiness to countless visitors. Lahore Zoo remains an important destination for recreation, education and family visits. Yet Suzi’s monument adds another dimension to the experience by preserving a piece of the zoo’s history. Her story demonstrates that animals can become much more than exhibits. They can become part of a community’s memories, childhood experiences and emotional history. Suzi may no longer be present at Lahore Zoo, but her legacy continues through the monument that ensures generations of visitors can remember the elephant who once brought quiet joy to one of Lahore’s most familiar landmarks. About the writer Sahr Sarfraz is a doctor by profession who enjoys writing reflective articles in her spare time.

Health experts say that quitting tobacco and reducing salt intake can help lower the risk of dementia, a condition associated with cognitive decline and memory loss. According to experts, these measures can help keep blood pressure within a healthy range and maintain stable blood sugar levels which may contribute to dementia prevention. A new study conducted in the United States found that if people adopt three healthy habits during middle age — maintaining normal blood pressure, keeping blood sugar levels under control and avoiding smoking — the onset of dementia could potentially be delayed by around 13 years. Researchers at New York University also found that dementia tends to develop later in women than in men regardless of their risk factors. More than 900,000 people in the United Kingdom are currently living with dementia. The condition is among the leading causes of death in the country accounting for more than 74,000 deaths every year. Most cases of dementia occur in people over the age of 65 while the risk of developing the condition approximately doubles every five years after the age of 65. However, growing scientific research suggests that dementia is not necessarily an inevitable part of ageing and that it can be prevented to a significant extent. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy body weight, can reduce the risk of dementia by more than 45%. A recent study by scientists at NYU Langone Health further suggests that if people maintain key health markers during middle age, they may be able to delay the onset of dementia by more than a decade.