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Over $25,000 had been raised on a GoFundMe campaign as of Friday afternoon.
Thompson, who was born in Syracuse, New York, went on to earn a bachelor's degree in business from SUNY-New Paltz before settling in Media, Pennsylvania, according to his obituary.
When Cody was 8 years old, he was granted a wish by the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Central New York to be a marine mammal trainer at Marine World Africa in Vallejo, California, his obit says.
As a trainer for the day, he learned how to train a pair of Orca whales, fed dolphins, and orchestrated dolphin tricks with his trainer whistle at the marine show, according to his obit.
In 2009, he became a Wish Granter and Speaker for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, granting dozens of wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions, his obit says.
"Cody was a beaming light who put everyone first and was always willing to volunteer or lend a helping hand to anyone in need," GoFundMe organizer Nicole Lebrun wrote.
He leaves behind his wife of three years, Jen.
"Cody’s contagious smile and endless talents will be missed dearly," Lebrun added.
Funeral services are set for Oct. 16 at the United Methodist Church in West Chester.
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