Wish Kid Brett said it best when she told us, “I’ve always wanted to go to Hawai’i, and when we found out I had a wish, I knew exactly what I wanted to do.” A nature lover with an affinity for marine life, Brett dreamed of diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Aloha State and swimming among her favorite fish and sea creatures.

Brett and her family’s trip began in Burlington, Vermont, with a flight to Atlanta followed by a flight to Seattle, and then a final leg to the island of Kona on the west coast of the Big Island, where they made their way to their final destination, Hilton Waikoloa Village. Described as “62 Acres of Paradise,” this gorgeous resort, perched just a stone’s throw from the ocean, has its own lagoon and is home to the Kona Pool, the largest pool on the island. This massive pool features a 175-foot waterslide, rope bridge, hot tubs, and a sandy children’s beach. And while there was plenty to see and do just outside the door to their hotel room, and lots of sea life waiting to be seen, there was some adventure on Brett’s agenda that needed to be tended to first.

So, Brett and her family headed out across the island to the small town of Honomu. Once there, they buckled into harnesses, donned helmets, clipped their carabiners, and ziplined their way through forests, across canyons, and high over waterfalls. It was an exhilarating day that showcased the island and its environment in a totally new and exciting way.

And while zipping through the trees was certainly up there on Brett’s list of favorite things to do on her visit to Hawai’i, getting the opportunity to dive beneath the waves and snorkel with manta rays was the highlight of her trip. And she even got the chance to swim with dolphins—and give one a hug! Now that’s seeing (and interacting with) marine life on a whole new level.

Brett’s Hawai’i adventure gave her the opportunity to go places and do things she’d always dreamed about. And while she’s grateful her wish came true; she knows that it was only possible with the commitment and dedication of donors and supporters like you. She told us in a radio ad she recorded for a local Burlington station, “I am so thankful for Make-A-Wish and all those who’ve supported Make-A-Wish and donated. I want to raise awareness for Make-A-Wish Vermont, so that tons of more kids can have the same opportunity to make a wish like I did.”