Wish Granted! Turtle Bay Animal Ambassadors Surprise Recipient During Make-A-Wish Reveal

March 14, 2023

Last Friday, we had the honor of being a part of the ultimate surprise for five-year-old Brayden McQuillan. At just five months old, Brayden underwent a heart transplant after being born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, an improper development of the left side of the heart. After enduring such a life-threatening condition, the Make-A-Wish Foundation wanted to create a spark of excitement for Brayden and his family.

On March 10, the annual Result’s Radio Radiothon commenced with Q97, Red 103.1, Power 94.7, and BOB FM 107.1. at the Mount Shasta Mall. From 6am - 6pm, listeners heard stories and testimonies from wish kids and their families, along with Make-A-Wish sponsors and volunteers in the North State. During the event, many dreams came true, including Brayden’s wish to connect with animals.

Brayden loves animals and even wishes to be a zookeeper when he grows up. When the Make-A-Wish Foundation asked if we would like to be a part of the reveal, we were thrilled!

At Brayden’s wish reveal, Sharon Clay, Curator of Animal Programs, and Adrienne John, Assistant Curator of Animal Programs, played a game of “Guess The Animal.” During the game, Brayden was challenged to figure out the correct animal based on three clues. Little did he know, our Animal Ambassadors were ready to surprise him when he guessed correctly! Our Opossum, Gucci, and Arizona Blonde Tarantula were revealed to Brayden, followed by excitement and curiosity.

This was just a taste of the surprise that awaited. Shortly after the game, the Make-A-Wish Foundation announced that Brayden and his family are going to the San Diego Zoo! During their visit to southern California, they will get a Behind-the-Scenes tour of the Zoo and time to explore the area.

We are honored to be apart of such a monumental surprise. Thank you, Brayden and Make-A-Wish, for allowing us to be apart of this special day. We are so excited for Brayden and his family to experience the wildlife of the San Diego Zoo!

Learn more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation by clicking the button below.