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Gabe's story is deeply personal to the sanctuary. He originally belonged to Joan, William Darpino's daughter. During a difficult season in her life, when she was no longer able to keep him due to divorce circumstances, William stepped in and brought Gabe to the family farm. When the farm later became Sunshine Farm Sanctuary, Gabe was already home — making him part of the foundation of the sanctuary's story.

Gabe is very much an alpaca — observant, independent, and quietly self-assured. He has never been fixed and carries himself with a calm confidence. Now about 15 years old, he is entering his senior years and has grown a bit more particular with age.

He rarely spits, but he will give you fair warning if he's had enough. You can usually hear it coming. Despite his occasional grumpy senior moments, he is a good boy who has never caused trouble. Gabe doesn't need to be the leader — but he certainly isn't a follower either. He's perfectly content walking his own line.

Gabe represents the heart of Sunshine Farm Sanctuary. His presence tells the story of family stepping in during hard times, and that same spirit of compassion is what the sanctuary now offers to others.