He loves animals and watching National Geographic. He is especially interested in learning about endangered species and conservation. His wish took him from Connecticut to Naples, FL to shadow National Geographic photographer Carlton Ward Jr. on an exclusive trip through protected wetlands.

At Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Oban received rare access aboard a swamp buggy to private parts of the sanctuary the public never sees. He learned about trail cameras and how they are used to capture footage of the animals with minimal disruption to the animals’ lives and habitats. Oban went behind the lens to photograph exotic birds, wild boars and alligators during his day in the life of a wildlife photographer. He was thrilled to see animals that he’s learned about in their natural habitat.

Oban's father continued, "It’s the first time for us getting away and seeing him so excited outside. This is everything we wanted when he was first diagnosed. We wanted him back to where he was. Now we are 10 or 11 months out of treatment and here we are. You’d have no idea what we went through."

Oban had a private tour facilitated by his new friend Carlton at the Naples Zoo. He experienced a meet and greet with Athena, an endangered Florida panther. Carlton was impressed with Oban’s knowledge. He said, “To see the next generation fall in love with nature…to share some of these places that I care about so much with someone who is the age as one of my kids. It was awesome!”

It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get a head start on his future career and to learn how conversation pros maximize photo and video opportunities to get valuable insight into Southwest Florida’s unique ecosystem.

Wish granted in collaboration with Make-A-Wish Connecticut