SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Make-A-Wish Georgia is granting an opportunity of a lifetime, offering hands-on experience with the world beneath the surface for a 12-year-old.

Mason Downey was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age five, a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. His family traveled from Indiana to Savannah to allow Mason the chance to realize a dream.

“I have been using microscopes to explore plankton and other stuff,” Downey said. “And then I’ve also been exploring how to identify a dolphin by their sounds.”

Thanks to Make-a-Wish, Downey is getting the chance to learn alongside marine biology students. It is a passion fueled by his desire to protect ocean life.

“I really just want to help the ocean because it’s slowly dying, and I just really feel bad for it,” he said.

Savannah State University’s marine biology department stepped in to help Downey learn more about the life of an ocean scientist. They set up several labs for the 12-year-old to observe, each focusing on a different aspect of marine biology.

“We’re so delighted to just be part of his journey,” Victoria Young said.

The experience has touched not only Downey, but his family as well. His mother, Kristen Downey, left with a full heart.

“Being here at Savannah State [University] is really nice because it’s exciting to see him living this dream,” Kristen said. 

“Learning about becoming a marine biologist, learning about college in general, so that in a few years he can go to college and this maybe one of his choices. I’m just very excited as a mom to see him get to experience this.”

With hands-on practice under his belt, Downey is moving full steam ahead with plans for his future.

“I really want to move down to a coastline and become a marine biologist,” said Mason.

Make-A-Wish Georgia grants life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.