LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Demba lived happily at the Louisville Zoo for 15 years, but Friday the Zoo made the decision to euthanize her after years of heart trouble. She was 50 years old.

Demba was diagnoised with endocarditis — aheart valve infection — in 2013. In a statement, the Zoo said Demba survived the infection and lived 7 more years thanks to help from Louisville's medical community.  Her keepers and the zoo veterinary staff monitoredher heart disease as it progressed.  The Zoo said Demba's quality of life started to decline which lead to its decision to euthanize her.  A necropsy is scheduled to be performed. 

“Demba’s story is one we are all very proud of”, said Senior Staff Veterinarian Dr. Zoli Gyimesi.  “To diagnose, treat, and survive a bout of endocarditis was remarkable, and then to manage her condition in the years following is a testament to the great care provided to the animals.”

Demba's roommate at the Zoo was Helen, the second oldest western lowland gorilla in the orld and the oldest in the North American managed population.  Helen is almost 63 years old.  The loss of Demba will be hard on Helen according to the Zoo.  However, the space offered by Louisville's Gorilla Forest will allow keepers and veterinarians to provide for Helen's needs.

Demba isn't originally from Kentucky.  She was born at the Dallas Zoo and spent a little time in Philadelphia. Demba joined the Gorilla Forest at the Louisville Zoo in 2006.  The median life expectancy of a female gorilla in managed care is about 39 years.