I knew Koko was getting excited about the upcoming festivities when she left a couple of messages for her caregivers: “Happy Birthday” and “Party time!” selecting these cards from a set of over 200 with phrases written on them.  In this way, she can leave us notes, suggestions, explanations and lists when we’re not there – adding a new dimension to interspecies communication! 

As I prepare her party and surprises, her gifts will be wrapped with love and thanks for all she has taught us through her insights and expressions of empathy. 

From conveying feelings of love and loss for a cherished kitten, to rescuing a delicate spider from an impending footstep, Koko has revolutionized our idea of what it means to be a gorilla.  She’s even shed new light on our understanding of our own humanity.

In return, we are committed to fulfilling her 3 dearest wishes.  Koko has communicated to us that she longs for a baby; she hopes humans will be “polite” to gorillas; and she wants to “hurry go” to Maui.  In fact, among the same set of cards referencing her birthday, Koko also included, "Koko will have gorilla Friends" and "Let's build Maui Preserve for gorillas" - a double wish for Maui that incorporates her other two desires!

I encourage you to make a generous birthday gift to Koko today.  Her hopes and dreams inspire our vital programs in education, interspecies communication and conservation – your support will help her wishes come true. 

Koko - and all the gorillas of the world – are counting on us.

Love,
Penny (and Koko)
    

PS: Thank you for your compassionate caring and commitment to ensuring a future for gorillas.