A Wish Comes True in Sarasota

The Giving Coast

Pictured: Megan Rosario enjoyed the company of the lemurs of Big Cat Habitat. Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida, Inc. recently granted a life-changing wish to Megan Rosario, a 15-year-old girl from New Caney, Texas, who had been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

After enduring a challenging year of treatment, Megan wished for a vacation in Sarasota to spend time with family living in the area. Her dream vacation, which included a yoga session with lemurs Ziggy and Marley at Big Cat Habitat, turned out to be everything she had hoped for and more. “This was absolutely amazing,” Megan said. “I wouldn't have wanted to go anywhere else.”

Along with her time with the lemurs, Megan also had a chance to enjoy a wolf encounter at Big Cat Habitat. The Rosario family cruised the waters off Siesta Key, where they saw dolphins, pelicans, herons, and other wildlife, as part of their activities on the Suncoast. “This has been an amazing reward for the hard times Megan and our family went through over this past year,” said Lori, Megan’s mother. She shared that part of Megan's enjoyment came from being able to share these experiences with loved ones.

“The wishes we grant aren’t just nice, they’re necessary,” said Taylor Marini, regional director of Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida. “Research shows the anticipation of a wish and the memories made during them can have a positive and significant impact on the health and well-being of the children, families, and extended networks we reach.”

Pictured: Megan Rosario enjoyed the company of the lemurs of Big Cat Habitat. Photo courtesy of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

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