Touching Tale of Airport Adventure: Owen's Lost Hobbes Tiger Returns Safely

Harper Quill

Updated Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

In a world filled with touching stories, a recent incident at Tampa International Airport has captured the attention of people across the globe. It involves a lost stuffed tiger, an airport staff's kindness, and an unforgettable adventure that unfolded behind the scenes.

The image that has been circulating on social media showcases a collage of three photographs, each capturing a different aspect of this extraordinary tale. On the left side of the collage, we see a stuffed toy tiger, Hobbes, perched with a view of the airport control tower against a backdrop of gray skies. The image exudes a sense of anticipation, as if Hobbes is ready to embark on an exciting journey.

On the right side of the collage, two photographs provide further insight into the story. The top image reveals an airplane at a gate, connected to a jet bridge. Though partially obscured, the text on the jet bridge includes the name "Southwest," hinting at the airline involved. This photo offers a glimpse into the toy's adventure, capturing a moment that may document the operations at the airport.

The bottom image on the right depicts a touching scene. A smiling airport staff member, dressed in a safety vest and equipped with a walkie-talkie, holds Hobbes close. In his hands, he cradles the beloved stuffed tiger alongside a photo album and other items. The staff member's shirt proudly displays the initials "TBI," which may refer to the name of his company or the section of the airport he works in. Additionally, the word "Southwest" adorns his shirt, signifying the airline's involvement in this heartening tale.

The accompanying text in the collage tells the story of 6-year-old Owen Lake, who inadvertently left his cherished Hobbes tiger behind at Tampa International Airport. But rather than being forgotten or discarded, the airport staff saw an opportunity to create something truly special. They gave Hobbes a behind-the-scenes adventure, ensuring that he experienced all the wonders the airport had to offer.

When Owen returned to the airport, he was reunited with his beloved stuffed tiger. But the surprises didn't end there. The staff had meticulously documented Hobbes' entire journey, capturing every moment in a photo album that they presented to Owen. Every step of the way, from the control tower to the airplane gate, Hobbes had been by their side, enjoying a unique escapade.

This touching image serves as a reminder of the kindness and compassion that exists in our world. It showcases the exceptional efforts made by the airport staff to bring joy to a young child's life. In an age where stories of empathy and generosity are often overshadowed by negativity, this incident shines as a beacon of hope.

The impact of this touching gesture has resonated deeply with people online. User comments express their own experiences with lost items, acts of unexpected kindness, and admiration for both the airport staff and the young boy. Some users even draw connections to popular culture icons like Flat Stanley and Calvin's beloved Hobbes.

Furthermore, the image has sparked curiosity, with users requesting additional photos and seeking out more information about the story. A link to an article providing more details and captivating photos of the adventure has been shared, driving the desire for further engagement and understanding.

This touching image and its accompanying story capture the essence of human compassion and the power of small acts of kindness. The touching tale of Owen's lost Hobbes tiger and its unforgettable airport adventure serves as a reminder that even in the busiest of places, a little bit of magic and empathy can truly make a difference.

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View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

Johnsky

Found a hand made stuffed animal (knitted) in a supermarket parking lot, middle of the laneway. I really tried to find the kid and parents, never found them, turned it into lost and found in a desperate attempt. For some reason the thought of a kid crying over an irreplaceable toy is just too much for me.

reinharder

Long ago my brother forgot his gameboy in the backseat pocket of an airplane, we reached out and let them know but they had already cleaned it all out. They said if they could find it they would send it, eventually we did get a package and it wasn't just a gameboy, but a big carrying case with ~10 games and the mangifier/light combo accessory. that was quite a nice surprise. sometimes nice things happen. then again someone else lost that big bag

WhatUpDog3000

Flat Stanley did it best

QuanticChaos

WTF? That's a real tiger what are they doing??

BuffaloKnight

Southwest has it's problems, like any of the airlines we have to use. But, their people and policies are much much nicer than the others.

keyblader1985

The man gets around.

TeDmund

Given that Hobbes isn't commercialized that toy is probably a one of a kind too!

HotSauceNCereal

Where are the rest of the photos?

kahless01

i made one like that for my nephew about 12 years ago. those stripes are a mf if youre hand sewing them

MosquitoHawker

Some sauce and more photos which are awesome: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/06/17/tampa-international-airport-hobbes-photo-tiger/28869733/

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