Members of the Clearwater Aquarium began to pay a posthumous tribute to the dolphin Wimter who could not survive after battling for several days with intestinal problems.
The 16-year-old cetacean was a celebrity in the years 2011, after participating in the films “Dolphin Tale” and “Dolphin Tale 2”.
“We come together as a community to celebrate Winter’s life and the impact it had on each and every one of us. They are invited to bring their memories (…) and enjoy the beautiful house that helped to build the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for her ”, said Kelsy Long, communication director of the aquarium, when opening the event.
Winter’s story transcended the screen
The story of the dolphin that lost its tail fins transcended the big screen, as various organizations came together to raise funds for the conservation of the dolphins.
The CMA , which is dedicated to rehabilitating sea turtles and dolphins suffering from ailments, is collecting donations from “the fans who loved the cetacean and so far they have raised more than $ 33,000.
In addition, a special presentation program will focus on Winter’s life and legacy, with original images of the rescue of these animals, his life and “the people he touched through his inspiring story.”
Dolphin died of intestinal torsion
An official autopsy showed that Winter died of intestinal torsion, which is when the intestines “twist in on themselves” and cut off the blood supply, Dr. Shelly Marquardt, a CMA veterinarian, told a news conference.
Marquardt explained that the cetacean had “pain controlled” as a palliative method to ensure that it felt more “comfortable.”
“We think (Winter) was as comfortable as she could have been and that was a very, very high priority given the situation we were in,” said the doctor.
Winter had arrived at the Florida West Coast Aquarium after being rescued from a crab trap in which she lost her tail and the ability to swim.
