Mika’s Journey: From Neglect to New Beginnings

Meet Mika, a 7-year-old husky whose painful past couldn’t dim her resilient spirit. Once unable to open her eyes due to severe neglect, Mika’s journey of healing inspired the founding of Sierra Overlook Animal Rescue. Read how one dog’s transformation sparked a mission of compassion and lifelong care.

From Darkness to Light: Mika’s Story

In July of 2023, a 6-year-old husky named Mika was rescued after a lifetime of abuse and neglect. She suffered from entropion, a painful condition in which her eyelids turned inward, causing her eyelashes to scrape against her eyes with every blink. The constant discomfort, paired with years of mistreatment, had left Mika physically damaged and emotionally withdrawn.

When Kimberly Nnowalue, now President and Founder of Sierra Overlook Animal Rescue (SOAR), first met Mika, she immediately recognized a quiet strength in the frightened husky. Despite her pain and fear, Mika had not given up. Kimberly knew she had to act.

At the time of her rescue, Mika was in such poor condition that she could barely open her eyes. The entropion had become so severe that it left her squinting constantly, struggling to see, and navigating her world through slivers of vision clouded by inflammation and infection. The simplest tasks—walking, recognizing her surroundings, or responding to people—were incredibly difficult and distressing. Mika wasn’t just in pain—she was living in near darkness.

Over the following months, Mika received extensive medical care, including corrective eye surgery and multiple vet visits—totaling more than $6,000 in expenses. Slowly, her physical health began to improve. With patience, love, and a calm, supportive environment, Mika also began to heal emotionally. Her timid demeanor softened, revealing a sweet, loyal, and resilient spirit beneath the scars.

Today, Mika is healthy, happy, and thriving as Kimberly’s personal companion. The bond they share is unshakable. Mika is no longer just a survivor—she’s a cherished member of the family, full of life and love. Her once-closed eyes are now wide open—bright, alert, and full of expression.

Mika’s transformation was the spark that led Kimberly to establish SOAR. Witnessing Mika’s recovery firsthand inspired her to create an organization dedicated to rescuing animals in similar situations—those who have suffered in silence and are in desperate need of compassionate care and a safe place to land.

Mika’s journey—from pain to peace, from fear to trust—embodies the mission of SOAR. She is a daily reminder of what’s possible when animals are given the chance to heal, and of why Kimberly and her team work tirelessly to ensure no animal is left behind.

Mika’s story will always be the heart of SOAR. She is not just a rescue—she is the reason.