makeawishsfla's video: Dylan s wish to go on an animal conservation road trip

Dylan has had three surgeries and spent his lifetime fighting a nervous system disorder and its seizures. His medical battle hasn’t dulled his love for animal research and marine biology, careers he hopes to someday pursue. In fact, Dylan says he relates with manatees because they are an endangered species that struggles to survive which is similar to his medical battle. His wish was to travel from his North Carolina home to Florida to embark on an animal conservation RV road trip. His adventure included a stop at the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach for a tram tour. At the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Dylan worked with rescued turtles and took an evening turtle walk to learn about the nesting and egg-laying process of sea turtles. His visit to Miami Seaquarium was certainly a highlight. Dylan enjoyed VIP access to areas not open to the general public. He toured the manatee rehabilitation center and got to feed the manatees, which is the animal he feels most connected to. Dylan said, “It’s hard to put into words how amazing this trip has been. It was a million times better than I ever thought it could be.” His wish solidified his aspiration to have a career in animal conservation. It was also the ultimate opportunity to live out his dream AND celebrate being seizure-free! Dylan said, “It’s fantastic! I am able to do a lot more than I used to be able to do. And this trip has really shown that.” Wish granted in collaboration with Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina