Who is Babiga?
Babiga was a young squirrel named by a young human who had not quite yet mastered the English language.
Dr. Hiss, a wildlife rehabilitator at the time, had an orphaned squirrel in her care. Her two-year old nephew was fascinated with the squirrel and believed the kale Dr. Hiss fed the squirrel, among other items, was broccoli. 
His attempt at pronouncing broccoli was “babiga” and every time he saw the young squirrel he cried “babiga.” The name “Babiga” stuck and became her official name. Unfortunately, Babiga had a medical condition precluding her release to the wild, and she remained with Dr. Hiss until Babiga’s death in 2005 from cancer. She was 12 years old.
Babiga sparked Dr. Hiss’ interest in squirrels and their medical care. When Babiga was 2 years old, she went with Dr. Hiss to veterinary school. Dr. Hiss says “Babiga taught me a great deal about squirrel nutrition and squirrel behavior. Squirrels are amazingly emotional and intelligent creatures. Most likely all animals have equal intelligence and emotions … humans are just beginning to document this phenomenon.”
Babiga was the first squirrel in history to undergo radiation therapy for cancer. Treated by Dr. Rachel St. Vincent, a board certified veterinary radiology oncologist, Babiga suffered no ill effects from the treatment which extended her life for 7 more quality-filled months.