Pua was found struggling to stand in a Burger King parking lot in Kaneohe by a visiting tourist who knew she needed help. Concerned that Pua may have been injured after being hit or abused, they brought her to safety, gave her food and a bath, and contacted Trooper’s Chicken Rescue (TCR).

TCR immediately arranged for a local volunteer to pick Pua up and bring her to a veterinarian. X-rays revealed significant trauma to her right knee. Although the injury was not infected, the knee had already fused, suggesting that Pua had been living with the injury for quite some time. Sadly, the damage meant she would likely never be able to fully extend or properly use her right leg again.

But Pua wasn't ready to give up.

With her left leg still functioning, TCR began physical therapy and wheelchair sessions in hopes of helping her gain greater mobility and comfort. At the sanctuary, Pua received daily care, physical therapy, wheelchair time, bandage changes, blueberry snacks, and—most importantly—lots of love.

Pua was energetic, playful, determined, and incredibly sweet. She loved being around other chickens and enjoyed the attention of her human volunteers just as much. She was still learning to accept her wheelchair and often preferred her cozy towel donut or curling up in a volunteer’s lap. And if there were blueberries involved, Pua was always ready.

After a long and difficult health battle, Pua sadly passed away.

While we wish her story could have had a different ending, Pua’s life was so much more than the injuries she suffered. She was given comfort when she needed it, care when she was vulnerable, and people who loved her exactly as she was.

Pua showed us what determination looks like. She never let her disabilities define her, and she continued to find joy in the little things—a warm lap, a cozy towel, a wheelchair session, a flock of friends, and a handful of blueberries.

Pua’s time with us may have been filled with challenges, but it was also filled with love. She mattered. Her life mattered. And she will always be remembered.