A Wish Come True: Leslie Watson’s Helicopter Ride Over the Grand Canyon

For many, lifelong dreams often remain just that—dreams. But for AARP Arizona volunteer Leslie Watson, a special organization helped make one of her biggest wishes a reality. Thanks to Wish of a Lifetime, she soared above one of the most breathtaking wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon.

What is Wish of a Lifetime?

Wish of a Lifetime, a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 and now a charitable affiliate of AARP, is dedicated to granting life-enriching wishes to older adults. The goal is simple yet profound: to inspire hope, combat isolation, and create unforgettable experiences for seniors by fulfilling their lifelong dreams. Whether it’s reconnecting with a loved one, revisiting a cherished place, or experiencing a thrilling adventure, Wish of a Lifetime helps turn these wishes into reality.

Leslie’s Journey to the Grand Canyon

Leslie Watson, a retired special education teacher of 42 years, first heard about Wish of a Lifetime through her AARP volunteer meetings. A friend and fellow volunteer encouraged her to apply, and with some extra nudging from her friend Debbie, Leslie finally submitted her application.

“I’ve always wanted to take a helicopter ride or go up in a blimp,” Leslie shared. “When they first offered me a ride over Scottsdale, I asked if I could go somewhere even more spectacular—the Grand Canyon. And they made it happen.”

Taking Flight with Maverick Helicopters

Leslie’s dream took flight with Maverick Helicopters, a premier aerial tour company known for its breathtaking Grand Canyon experiences. Her pilot, Josh, guided the journey, providing expert narration as they soared over the vast canyon landscape.

When Leslie found out her wish had been granted, she was thrilled—but the excitement didn’t fully set in until the day of the flight. As the helicopter lifted off, the Arizona landscape stretched out beneath her, transitioning from lush forests to the breathtaking depths of the canyon.

“At first, I was a little nervous. I’m used to small planes, but a helicopter feels different—it’s not as sturdy,” she recalled. “But once we soared over the rim and the canyon opened up beneath us, it was absolutely awe-inspiring. The view was beyond anything I could have imagined.”

One of the most memorable moments of the flight was seeing the merging of the Colorado River and the Little Colorado River. “The Little Colorado River comes straight out of the ground, so it’s crystal clear, while the main Colorado River has sediment and is a deep green. Seeing that from above was incredible,” she said.

A Special Gift for Maverick Helicopters

To commemorate her experience, Leslie crafted handmade gnomes wearing helicopter-themed sock hats and gifted them to the team at Maverick Helicopters as a token of appreciation. The staff loved them so much that they are now proudly displayed in their lobby, a small but meaningful reminder of Leslie’s incredible journey and the joy of making wishes come true.

A Life-Changing Experience

For Leslie, this experience was more than just a thrilling adventure—it changed her perspective on life.

“It broadened my horizons,” she reflected. “I saw things I never thought I’d see in my lifetime, and it reminded me that if you really want something, you can find a way to make it happen.”

Even if her wish hadn’t been granted, Leslie believes she would have eventually found a way to take this flight herself. But thanks to Wish of a Lifetime, Maverick Helicopters, and pilot Josh, she didn’t have to wait any longer.

Advice for Future Applicants

To anyone considering applying for a wish, Leslie has one message: Do it!

“But be prepared,” she advises. “Follow the directions closely, and be willing to share your personal story. I had to open up about things I don’t usually talk about, like my mother passing away when I was young and my sister being handicapped. That personal connection is what makes your story stand out.”

Making Dreams Come True

Leslie’s wish is just one of many that Wish of a Lifetime has granted. Each wish tells a unique story of perseverance, hope, and the power of lifelong dreams.

As Leslie soared above the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters and pilot Josh, she experienced awe, inspiration, and a newfound appreciation for life—proving that it’s never too late to make a dream come true.

For more information on how you or a loved one can apply for a wish, visit wishofalifetime.org.