Selfless birthday wish for the turtles

By Observer Staff
| 4:00 a.m. October 5, 2011

Ally Kukanza helps Mote scientists release rescued hatchlings back into the Gulf of Mexico. Courtesy photo.

Longboat Key
Neighbors

Allison Kukanza opted out of birthday presents for her ninth birthday earlier this month; instead, she asked that donations be made to Mote’s Sea Turtle Hatchling Hospital, which her family donated to Mote. So far, she has raised $625 with a goal of $900 — $100 for every birthday she has celebrated. But she hopes to exceed $1,000. Mote built her a website, www.mote.org/allyswish, where donations can be made.