Dear Friend,
I remember it like it was yesterday! Fred Rogers visited us in February of 1998 to film a segment with Koko for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, centered on the theme of Love.
Mister Rogers and Koko formed an instant bond!
Koko had been a long-time fan of Mister Rogers and when she finally got to meet him in person, it was love at first sight.
As they sat together, Koko embraced Mr. Rogers, and he gently thanked her for the moment they shared. Later, after Koko marked in one of my research notebooks, I asked Mr. Rogers to write her a note. He wrote, “Dear Koko … I love you — Mister Rogers!”
Koko responded by taking his hand and moving close to him, and he wrapped his arms around her, telling her how sweet she was.
This heartwarming interaction is a testament to the kindness and kinds of connections that can transcend species.
We’re dedicating this video to Mister Rogers, and are releasing it around his birthday (March 20), to celebrate his lasting impact on kids of all ages around the world!
Thank you for being part of Koko’s legacy — one that continues to inspire a future where all gorillas can live freely, as they were meant to!
With Koko-Love,
Dr. Penny Patterson
President, CEO and Founder
The Gorilla Foundation / Koko.org
Conservation through Communication
The Gorilla Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our Federal Tax ID is: 942-38-6151
Without the support of people like you, Gorillas remain at risk.
Thank you for supporting gorilla conservation and care today!
