Cincinnati Shocked: Beloved Mascot Fiona the Hippo Loses Her Famous Smile

Cincinnati Shocked: Beloved Mascot Fiona the Hippo Loses Her Famous SmileCincinnati Shocked: Beloved Mascot Fiona the Hippo Loses Her Famous Smile Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is reeling from the heartbreaking news that Fiona the hippo, the city’s beloved mascot, has lost her signature smile. The zoo announced on Thursday that Fiona had undergone surgery to remove a benign tumor from her face. The tumor, which was located on Fiona’s upper lip, had been growing steadily over the past few months and was beginning to affect her ability to eat and socialize. The surgery was performed at the zoo’s animal hospital by a team of veterinary specialists. According to the zoo, the surgery was successful and the tumor was completely removed. However, due to the location of the tumor, Fiona’s facial muscles have been affected. As a result, she has lost her ability to smile. “We are deeply saddened by this news,” said Thane Maynard, director of the Cincinnati Zoo. “Fiona’s smile has brought joy to millions of people around the world, and it is difficult to imagine her without it.” Fiona was born at the Cincinnati Zoo in 2017 and quickly became a social media sensation. Her premature birth and subsequent struggles captured the hearts of people around the globe. Fiona has since grown into a healthy and playful hippo, and her smile has become a symbol of hope and resilience. The zoo is asking for the public’s understanding and support during this difficult time. Fiona is still recovering from surgery and will not be on display for several weeks. The zoo is hopeful that with time, her facial muscles will regain some of their functionality and that she will be able to smile again. “Fiona is a fighter,” said Maynard. “We know that she will face this challenge with the same determination and spirit that she has shown throughout her life.” The news of Fiona’s lost smile has sent shockwaves through Cincinnati and beyond. Fans of the hippo have taken to social media to express their sadness and support. “Fiona’s smile was a beacon of hope for so many people,” said one Twitter user. “It’s hard to believe that she will never be able to smile again.” “Even without her smile, Fiona will always hold a special place in our hearts,” said another. “She has taught us so much about the importance of perseverance and resilience.” The Cincinnati Zoo is encouraging people to share their memories of Fiona and her smile on social media using the hashtag #FionasSmile. The zoo is also selling limited-edition Fiona merchandise to raise funds for her continued care.