06/06/2026
Yesterday June 5, 2026, the parrot community lost a truly remarkable woman, and I lost someone I deeply admired.
Long before Parrots Haven Rescue and Sanctuary was even a thought, I visited Angel Wings Parrot Rescue looking to adopt a parrot. I had visited other rescues before, but the moment I stepped into Cindy’s rescue, I knew I was seeing something special. Everything was beautiful, organized, well cared for, and centered around the birds. You could feel the love, dedication, and respect she had for every life in her care.
I remember leaving that day thinking, “If I ever start a rescue, it has to be like this.”
Cindy set the standard for me. In many ways, she helped shape the vision that would eventually become Parrots Haven.
She was humble, knowledgeable, compassionate, and always willing to share her wisdom. She never saw parrots as commodities. She wasn’t interested in charging exorbitant adoption fees or finding the fastest placement. Her goal was always the same: finding the right home.
When I adopted from her, she asked to see the cage I would be using. She asked countless questions. At the time, I realized she wasn’t simply rehoming a bird, she was protecting one. She cared deeply about every parrot that passed through her doors and wanted to ensure they would be loved for the rest of their lives.
Years later, after founding Parrots Haven, I often referred potential adopters to Cindy when I knew she had birds available and I believed the people were good matches. I did so with complete confidence because I trusted her judgment, her ethics, and most importantly, her heart. I knew she would always put the parrots first.
In a world where rescues are sometimes judged by the number of birds they place, Cindy measured success by something far more important: the quality of the homes she found and the lives she improved.
She inspired me, encouraged me without even knowing it, and showed me what a rescue could and should be.
Thank you, Cindy, for your kindness, your example, your friendship, and for every bird whose life was better because of you.
Your legacy will live on in Angel Wings, in the countless parrots you saved, in the families you helped create, and in rescues like mine that were inspired by your work.
Fly high, my friend. Your wings were ready, but our hearts were not.
With love and gratitude,
Melva Díaz
Parrots Haven Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc.