Once upon a time, when I lived in California, I spotted a beautiful Spanish home on Bel Aire Drive in Glendale, California. . .
I decided it had to be Glendale House Portrait series. When the painting was close to completion, as is always my policy, I left a note for the owner of the home and asked if she would like to view the original painting. Little did I know who lived in this home or their touching rags to riches story.
Homeowner, Toni Bua, answered with a resounding, “YES!” She told me how much she loved “Casa Bua”, her forever home, and how she recently became the proud “Mom” of Miley, a white Husky who was found lying atop a discarded blanket on a heap of debris outside a Los Angeles dump, hardly able to move. As you can see below, Miley’s paws and much of her skin was raw and patchy from mange, her body malnourished.
Miley’s savior was Eldad Hagar of animal rescue organization, Hope for Paws. Miley slept for thee days after the rescue however after treatment and an abundance of love and care she was nursed back to health. Today as you can see she is happy, healthy and thriving. And so is her devoted owner, Toni.
Along the way I learned more about Toni and her extraordinary achievements. She met her husband, the late Gene Bua, while starring on the CBS daytime drama Love of Life and they began creating their lives together, both on and off set. Over the years the Buas wrote, composed, directed and produced many award winning musicals and composed many songs for feature films and television. Their creations have been honored by the White House and the United Nations. Toni is CEO and Master Teacher of Bua Acting for Life, a powerful and healing playground for actors and others who wish to combine body mind and spirit in their art… and in their lives. Toni is also the President of Here’s to Life Foundation, sponsoring at-risk teens and others through art and entertainment.
I had a fabulous time with Toni and Miley that included a tour of Toni’s beautiful home. Toni was kind enough to allow me to share my tour with you.
Following my original publishing of this article, I have learned that sadly, Toni passed away about a year later after a long fight with breast cancer. Updating this story is in honor of Toni and her legacy of helping others and providing a home to Miley!
Regards, Leisa
