Terminally Ill Former Zoo Employee Gets A Goodbye Kiss From a Giraffe at the Rotterdam Zoo

A man named Mario, who is terminally ill with cancer, had his final wish granted – a chance to say goodbye to the Rotterdam’s Diergaarde Blijdorp Zoo, where he had worked for nearly 25 years. Working through Netherland Ambulance Wish Foundation, bed-ridden Mario was transported to and around the zoo. When they reached the giraffe enclosure, the shy animals seemed to recognize Mario and slowly investigated. The most heart-wrenching moment, however, came when one giraffe walked directly up to Mario and lovingly nuzzled his face, as if to say goodbye.

via Today Show

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.