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I Wish to Go… Whale Watching! Make-A-Wish Foundation Grants its 4,000th Wish

Charles William Bebe, Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Dr. Eugenie Clark. Chances are that you may have heard of one of these famous marine biologists; however, four-year-old wish kid Colin knows them all.
Although he isn’t even in kindergarten yet, this energetic little guy is like a walking encyclopedia when it comes to all things under the sea. Diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia at 15 months old, his love of whales and marine life started at the age of two. At that time, he was already teaching his mom, Kellie, about whale sharks and sea life. Initially, she thought he was just talking about creatures that he had imagined. But it wasn’t long before she realized that he was actually stating fact, not fiction. "When he tells me something about sea life now, I believe him," said Kellie. 
It’s that love of the ocean that influenced Colin’s decision to go whale watching for his wish (our chapter’s 4,000th wish granted!).
After much anticipation—Colin would ask each and every day if today was his wish day—his magical day finally arrived. The minute he stepped off the ferry, Colin said it best when he exclaimed, "Let the games begin!" From that moment he was catapulted into celebrity status as flyers with his name, picture and wish story had been posted throughout the town. Everywhere he went, people stopped to give him the royal treatment. That VIP status continued aboard the boat when he was given a special proclamation on behalf of the Mayor, who declared it Colin’s Wish Day in Friday Harbor. Soon thereafter, his excitement peaked as the whale watching ensued aboard the San Juan Excursion’s flagship boat, "The Odyssey."
While out to sea, he and his family saw a pod of 19 orca whales, harbor seals, a bald eagle, sea lions and even two rare Minke whales.
This special day ended with a trip to the Whale Museum and a visit to the beach. Colin was as happy as a clam—or perhaps a whale!
For 23 years, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has had the privilege and honor of granting the heartfelt wishes of many children like Colin throughout our community. We’re proud that Colin’s wish marks our 4,000th wish granted and are so thankful to our community for its continued support.

Special thanks: Volunteers Kerry & Emily Volland and Susan Boothe
Thank you: San Juan Excursions, Friday Harbor Mayor David Jones, Council Woman Carrie Brooks
Video courtesy of TriFilm Productions
Photos courtesy of Suzanne Fogarty Photography 2009