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I wish to go to the San Diego Zoo
Jaime
9
cancer
Jaime's wish to meet his favorite animals sparks a turning point
Jaime's wish to meet his favorite animals sparks a turning point
Jaime's fascination with animals began at a young age.
He wasn't just a casual admirer; he was a true animal lover. His days were filled with exploring the world of creatures big and small, from lions to tortoises.
Life took an unexpected turn for Jaime when he was diagnosed with cancer in kindergarten. When Make-A-Wish came into Jaime’s life, he wished to connect with the animals he loved at the San Diego Zoo.
It was exciting for Jaime to look forward to his wish. It motivated him to keep working on his physical therapy to build stamina to see all the animals at the zoo.
Leticia
Jaime's mom
The anticipation of his wish energized him, adding a sparkle back to his laughter and an undeniable twinkle to his eyes.
Read more inspiring stories of Arizona wish kids like Jaime!
Jaime's visit to the San Diego Zoo and Aquarium was extraordinary. The zoo staff gave him a private tour, allowing him to get up close and personal with the animals, even feeding the tortoises. His favorite, the Komodo dragon, left a lasting impression. The adventure continued beyond the zoo's gates as Jaime enjoyed the local beaches, collecting shells, exploring the shallows, and watching mesmerizing sunsets.
The wish also had a profound physical and emotional impact.
“He accomplished incredible progress we hadn't thought possible. When we returned home, it was as if he had brought back a newfound confidence. He now approaches strangers with ease, confidently answering questions about his wish,” Leticia said.
This transformation left us in awe of how the wish gave him self-assurance and comfort in his own skin.
Looking forward to his wish motivated Jaime to keep working on his physical therapy to build stamina to see all the animals at the zoo.
The zoo staff gave Jaime and his family a private tour, allowing him to get up close and personal with the animals, even feeding the tortoises.
Jaime thought his wish was, “Awesomeness!” and he loved seeing his favorite animal, the Komodo dragon.
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