Volunteer Spotlight:
Sheena W.

Sheena, a mother to three girls and about eighteen animals, shares her small farm with her husband, Kyle, who also volunteers with Harmony Wildlife. Born in Canada and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Sheena moved to Nashville for her anesthesiology residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and has called it home ever since.

From the age of ten, a profound love for animals fueled her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She immersed herself in learning about every creature, pet-sat for neighbors, and pursued a Biology major with a Zoology minor in college to prepare for her goal. During her junior year, she gained valuable insight into the veterinary field as an assistant at a local animal hospital. However, the experience also exposed her to the harsh realities of animal abuse and tragic outcomes.

"I called my parents one evening and told them that I wasn't sure this field was for me," Sheena recalls. "It was frustrating that the animals couldn't tell us what was wrong or what was hurting." The following year, she transitioned to human medicine, finding enjoyment in all its aspects. After choosing to specialize in anesthesiology, her father offered an observation: "Ironically, your new patients can't talk to you either, Sheena." Touché, Dad. Touché. 

Despite a fulfilling career in human medicine, Sheena felt a persistent pull toward the animal kingdom—a fascination with wildlife, survival, and the desire to help those impacted by the inevitable collision with the human world. Wildlife rehabilitation filled that void, allowing her to apply her medical and diagnostic skills and her passion for the well-being of all animals.