Remembering Winter the Dolphin – October 10, 2005 – November 11, 2021

This morning, we were sad to find out that Winter the Dolphin, star of Dolphin Tale, passed away.  She was suffering from gastrointestinal abnormalities and her care team was working hard to save her life.  Maybe you are familiar with her story.  Maybe, you may have never heard of her.  If you haven’t heard of her, you may ask, well what is so special about this dolphin.  Winter the Dolphin was a source of hope and healing to many.  There are many people who heard her story while struggling themselves and it helped inspire and encourage them. So here is her amazing story.

In 2005, Winter’s tail got caught in a crab trap.  She was saved and rehabilitated at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The damage to her tail, however, was so extensive that she lost it. She battled for survival when the odds were against her.  They created a special prosthetic tail for Winter and she learned how to swim with it.  The movie, Dolphin Tale, puts her in the light of not liking this prosthetic tail, however, that wasn’t the case at all.  She loved her tail and it helped her survive for 16 years.  Winter’s story of survival and determination has been an inspiration for others who are going through issues in their own lives.  Clearwater Marine Aquarium reports that Winter’s story has helped millions of people over the last 16 years. 

When she was 3, Leslie’s love of dolphins was apparent.  After watching Dolphin Tale when she was 4, Winter’s story helped Leslie realize she wanted to work with and help dolphins. Leslie decided that she wants to work at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.  She has held onto this dream through the years and I’ve watched her learn and grow, with a determination that you don’t see in very many kids.  Her dreams haven’t changed as she has gotten older, rather, they have become a strong obsession and have helped her push herself to succeed. Leslie knows exactly what she needs to do to reach her dreams.  We got to see Winter twice, once in 2016 and then again last spring when we went to Clearwater for spring break.  

Clearwater Marine Aquarium won’t be the same without this special dolphin.  Winter will continue to live on in the memories of all who have been touched by her.  I hope that her story of survival will continue to help others.  Anyone who wishes to give a gift in Winter’s memory can donate to CMA so that they can continue their mission of rescue and rehabilitation.  Your donations to Clearwater Marine Aquarium can be given here.  We will be praying for Winter’s caregivers and everyone who has been touched by this amazing dolphin during this period of loss, grief and healing.  

Winter, You will be forever loved and missed.  

From those of us at Livin’ The Smith Life, goodbye and rest in peace beautiful girl.