On Tuesday 18 June, Loretta's Ambulance Wish was fulfilled, marking a deeply touching day filled with cherished moments for her and her loved ones.
Organised by the Ambulance Wish South Australia program in collaboration with the Northern Adelaide Palliative Care Service (NAPS), Aldinga Surf Life Saving Club, and Silver Sands Restaurant, the day was designed to create memories that last forever.
The journey began as Loretta, accompanied by her husband Basil and the Wish Day Team, travelled from Modbury Hospital to Aldinga in the Wish Ambulance. 
Their first stop was at Loretta’s beloved family beach house at Aldinga Beach, a place steeped in decades of happy memories. There, with a smile on her face, Loretta used chalk to add her name to a wall (pictured right).
The smiles on those around her was heartwarming, reflecting the shared joy and significance of the moment.
The next stop was the Aldinga Surf Life Saving Club, where they were warmly welcomed by President Nathan.
With special arrangements, Loretta was able to experience the beach she cherished so much: reversing down the boat ramp, she could see the sand, hear the waves and smell the sea on a tranquil winter day.
This place, lovingly referred to by Loretta as “my beach,” held immense significance for her.
The day culminated in a heartfelt gathering as 18 of Loretta’s friends and family joined her and Basil for a delicious lunch of fish and chips.
The Aldinga Surf Life Saving Club generously provided the couple's meals, while Silver Sands Restaurant complimented a dessert for all the guests, with the venue filled with joyous conversations, moments of reflection, and much love and laughter. Moved by the experience, Loretta said: “I feel at peace now."
The day not only fulfilled Loretta’s wish to revisit her cherished beach and enjoy a meal with loved ones but also created lasting memories that will be treasured by all who shared in the occasion. 
Chief Executive Officer of Palliative Care South Australia Shyla Mills said it was truly heartwarming to see Loretta's wish be fulfilled and the local community get involved.
"It's a kind reminder to us all that at the end of our lives, we want our loved ones close and to relive and visit our own special places just once more," she said.
Ambulance Wish SA is the signature program of Palliative Care SA, in collaboration with St John SA and Flinders University, and is supported by the SA Government and Carers SA. It fulfills special wishes and creates memories for South Australians living with a life-limiting condition.
This article originally appeared on the Ambulance Wish SA website and has been republished here with permission.
