When Alyssa Fesset and Dr. Lindsey Waxman step onto the ice at a Tampa Bay Lightning game, they bring with them the warmth of countless success stories—over 200 sea turtles rescued and rehabilitated since 2019.

On January 6th, the Lightning's Community Heroes program shone a spotlight on this dynamic duo, recognizing their extraordinary dedication to protecting Gulf Coast marine life. But the recognition came with more than applause: the team presented them with a generous $50,000 grant to fuel their ongoing conservation efforts.

Working with The Florida Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rehab Center, which opened its doors in 2019, Fesset and Waxman have transformed their passion for marine conservation into measurable impact. Each rescued sea turtle represents hours of careful rehabilitation, medical treatment, and nurturing care before these ancient mariners can return to their ocean home.

The Florida Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rehab Center has become a beacon of hope for injured, sick, and stranded sea turtles along Florida's coastline. From hatchlings to full-grown adults, these magnificent creatures find expert care and a second chance at life thanks to the tireless work of conservationists like Fesset and Waxman.

Sea turtles face numerous challenges in today's oceans, from boat strikes and fishing gear entanglements to illness and habitat loss. The rehabilitation center serves as a critical safety net, providing medical intervention and recovery support that can mean the difference between life and death for these threatened species.

The Tampa Bay Lightning's Community Heroes program, which honors local changemakers at every home game, recognizes individuals and organizations making tangible differences in the Tampa Bay area. The $50,000 grant awarded to The Florida Aquarium will support continued operations, equipment, medical supplies, and the expertise needed to maintain their impressive rescue rate.

What makes Fesset and Waxman's work particularly inspiring is the ripple effect it creates. Beyond saving individual animals, their efforts contribute to species preservation, ocean ecosystem health, and community education. Visitors to The Florida Aquarium witness firsthand the importance of marine conservation, inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards.

Since its inception, the Lightning's Community Heroes initiative has awarded millions of dollars to deserving causes throughout the Tampa Bay region, demonstrating how sports teams can serve as catalysts for positive community change. The program embodies the spirit of teamwork—showing that when communities come together, extraordinary things happen.

For Fesset and Waxman, the recognition and financial support mean they can continue their mission with renewed resources and energy. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference, whether responding to a stranding call, performing medical procedures, or celebrating a successful release back into Gulf waters.

As these two heroes prove, passion combined with action creates lasting impact. Their work reminds us that every creature matters and that dedicated individuals can protect our natural world for future generations to cherish and enjoy.