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.

Must have smthg in my little penguin eye. *sob* "#Giraffe kisses dying #zoo worker final goodbye" via @Independent http://t.co/nCoW75pORk

— M. Penguin (@sentientpenguin) March 21, 2014

via Today Show