In 2001, Robin Williams visited Koko at her home in Woodside. It was a cheerful encounter for both, and Koko treasured it for the rest of her life. The meeting took place about 6 months after Koko’s foster brother, Michael, passed away of cardiomyopathy — and it turned out to be the first time Koko laughed (or even smiled) since losing Michael. Robin made Koko laugh, and Koko had a profound effect on Robin as well.

When Koko learned of Robin’s passing (in August 2014) she became very sad. Koko passed away a few years later (in June 2018). We hope this video will remind you of what a special gift both of these individuals gave to the world.