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Recent Wishes
Braeden's New Best Friend 🐕
Battling a brain tumor and recovering from a stroke suffered during his first surgery, Braeden now has a new source of hope and comfort: a golden doodle puppy named Maverick. This isn't just any puppy; Maverick is a therapy dog, providing crucial emotional support and companionship to Braeden during his challenging journey. Their story is a heartwarming testament to resilience and love. Watch the touching video of Braeden and Maverick's first meeting – a moment that forges an unbreakable bond between a boy and his new best friend.
Despite facing daunting odds with a 60% survival rate due to T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer, Michael's spirit remained resilient. His journey was marked by unique challenges, including cells in his spinal fluid and a mass in his chest encasing his heart. In the face of such adversity, Daniela's Wish became a source of light, granting Michael's heartfelt wish: a drive to Florida to meet Mickey Mouse. We provided $785.00 in gas and expense gift cards, allowing Michael and his family to embark on a memorable journey filled with joy and cherished moments amidst their battle against cancer.
Meet Daniel, a brave little fighter who faced immense challenges from the moment he was born. Despite undergoing two open-heart surgeries to close holes in his heart and another to replace a faulty valve with a prosthetic one, Daniel’s resilience never wavered. Blood transfusions became a regular part of his journey, but his strength and determination inspired everyone around him. Daniela’s Wish brought joy to Daniel by granting his wish for a Hug Me Elmo, a symbol of comfort in his difficult journey. In addition to fulfilling Daniel’s wish, we were able to support his family with a new carpet, a new roof, and a netbook computer. These acts of kindness brought a sense of relief and joy to his family during their toughest times. Daniel’s spirit and the love he brought to those around him will never be forgotten.
Christopher's journey began with a battle against Right Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome, a condition where his right ventricle did not grow to the proper size. After birth, Christopher's early days were spent in the Intensive Cardiac Unit at The Children’s Hospital Of Philadelphia, where he underwent his first open-heart surgery. Despite a major setback due to an allergy to the blood thinner Heparin, resulting in a heart attack that left him clinically dead for 45 minutes, Christopher's resilience and strength shone through. After undergoing multiple surgeries and enduring months in the hospital, Christopher's unwavering spirit never faltered. His wish to meet his hero, John Cena, became a reality when Christopher was picked up in a limousine with two VIP tickets to the Wizard World Show in Philadelphia. With a personal meet & greet with John Cena, Christopher's dream came true as he received a wristband from his idol, a symbol of hope and inspiration amidst his journey of triumph over adversity.
Bella's life has been shaped by her battle with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), a genetic disorder that leads to tumors forming in various organs, particularly the brain. For Bella, TSC's complications have manifested in tumors affecting multiple vital organs, seizures, cognitive impairment, and behavioral challenges. Despite the hurdles she faces, Bella's spirit remains resilient. Daniela's Wish brought a ray of joy into Bella's life by granting her wish for a new scooter. This simple gift brought Bella moments of freedom and happiness, offering her a chance to embrace life's joys amidst her ongoing journey with TSC.
Meet Patrick, a young warrior courageously battling Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH), a rare disease impacting only 1 in 200,000 children. His body's immune system, comprised of Langerhans Cells, turned against him, forming tumors that relentlessly attacked his fragile frame. From a routine MRI for back pain emerged a harsh reality: a spinal cord tumor crushing vertebrae and pressing bone fragments against his delicate nerves. With unwavering determination, Patrick embarked on a grueling journey of aggressive chemotherapy, confronting each treatment with resilience. Yet, amidst the relentless onslaught of medical challenges, Patrick's spirit remained unyielding. During a hospital stay, another tumor on his hip further intensified his battle, but his resolve never faltered. In the midst of his struggle, his wish for a robodog was granted, offering him a loyal companion in his journey of healing and resilience. Patrick's story epitomizes courage, perseverance, and the unshakeable human spirit, inspiring all who know him to embrace life's challenges with steadfast determination.
Meet Sean, a spirited five-year-old kindergarten student with a boundless love for Superheroes and playtime with his sisters. At the tender age of four, Sean's adventurous spirit led him to an unfortunate accident while pretending to be Spider-Man, resulting in a broken arm that became a monumental obstacle to overcome. What followed was a challenging journey marked by five surgeries aimed at healing and setting his bone. Despite enduring three surgeries, the bone failed to set correctly, leading to another heartbreaking break just days before scheduled pins and rod removal. However, after a grueling year-long healing process, Sean finally underwent his last surgery to remove the rod from his arm. Sean's resilient spirit was rewarded when his wish for an Xbox and a signed New York Rangers jersey was granted, filling his heart with joy and offering a well-deserved moment of happiness amidst his courageous journey.
Meet Andrew, a remarkable boy whose journey has been marked by extraordinary challenges and courage. Born with Biliary Atresia, a liver disease that threatened his life from infancy, Andrew's story is one of resilience and triumph. At just seven months old, he received a life-saving liver transplant from Rick, a heroic organ donor whose selflessness transformed Andrew's life forever. However, Andrew's health struggles continued as he battled the aftermath of a transplant, navigating complex medical challenges with incredible strength. Despite facing numerous surgeries and ongoing medical treatments, including the removal of his gall bladder and appendix, Andrew's spirit remained unbroken. His journey was further complicated by the discovery of a murmur and the development of cardiomyopathy, a condition affecting his heart. Andrew continued to persevere, supported by his devoted family and the unwavering care of his medical team. During his ongoing medical challenges, Andrew's wish to visit Hershey Park with his family was granted—a testament to his enduring spirit and the power of hope. The two-night stay at the Hershey Hotel, complete with park passes to all Hershey Parks & amusements, offered Andrew and his family a precious opportunity to create cherished memories and celebrate the joy of togetherness in the face of adversity. Andrew's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of love, courage, and family support in overcoming life's greatest challenges.
Ozzie and Sarah welcomed their fifth child, baby Sofia, into the world with joy and anticipation. However, their happiness was quickly overshadowed by a devastating diagnosis—Sofia was diagnosed with an AV Canal Defect just 12 days after her birth, requiring urgent open-heart surgery between 2 to 6 months of age. As the family prepared for this daunting journey, they faced the financial strain of providing Sofia with the necessary care, including expensive fortifier for weight gain, costing an average of $700 per week. With the surgery expected to result in a minimum two-week hospital stay in New York City, the family turned to their community for support during this challenging time. Despite the uncertainty and fear, they held onto their faith in God and the possibility of miracles, knowing that even the impossible can be made possible with faith. Their wish for formula for baby Sofia was granted, offering a glimmer of hope amidst their difficult journey. As they navigate this uncertain path, the family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness from their community, believing that together, they can overcome any obstacle that lies ahead.
Julianna's battle began with a diagnosis of cranipharyngioma, a rare tumor that develops from embryonic tissue without any known genetic predisposition. She underwent surgery to remove most of the tumor and remarkably recovered well. However, just 14 hours after being discharged, she returned to the hospital due to fluid leakage from a superficial pin hole in the back of her head. Despite showing no symptoms, this setback revealed meningitis, leading to a course of antibiotics. As Julianna bravely faces this challenge, her family prepares for the lifelong journey ahead—to prevent any residual tumor growth, manage hormone medications to control her newly acquired Diabetes Insipidus, and ensure she lives a long and healthy life. Amidst their trials, Julianna's wish to visit Dorney Park with her family was granted—a moment of joy and respite during their difficult journey. Julianna's story is a testament to her courage, resilience, and the unwavering support of her loved ones as they navigate the uncertainties of her condition together.
Joey received the life-altering diagnosis of Burkitts Leukemia at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. With unwavering resolve, Joey, along with his devoted family—Bill, Maria, and sister Gianna—confronts this challenge head-on, guided by the expert medical staff at CHOP. Despite the daunting journey ahead, Joey's spirit remains resilient as he continues his courageous fight against leukemia. Joey's wish for a new Xbox One with Forza Motorsport 5 was granted, offering him a source of joy and distraction during his treatment. Joey's story is a testament to his strength, the love of his family, and the support of his medical team as he navigates the challenges of his diagnosis with great determination.
Rich and Nancy received devastating news: their not-yet-four-year-old son, Logan, had been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Initially placed in a "standard risk" category, Logan's prognosis took a grim turn when tests revealed he had a rare type of ALL known as hypodiploid ALL, drastically reducing his chances of survival to 40-50%. Despite the overwhelming odds, Logan embarked on a courageous battle against the disease, undergoing aggressive chemotherapy treatment at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Recognizing the urgency of his situation, Logan's case was presented to the Leukemia Board at CHOP, who recommended a bone marrow transplant. Logan's wish for a party at Funtime America was granted—a moment of joy and celebration as a distraction from his challenging journey. Logan's story is a testament to his incredible resilience, the unwavering support of his family, and the hope that kept him strong through the many battles he faced. He will always be remembered for his bravery and the impact he made on everyone around him.
Tylor Collins, diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma at 15, has displayed remarkable strength. A junior at ALJ High School in Clark, New Jersey, he eagerly returned to school in September after missing his sophomore year due to treatment. Tylor, once an active skateboarder and ATV enthusiast, now navigates life with limited mobility. Despite this, he remains spirited, longing for normalcy and control over his life. His dream of attending a live UFC fight with his family became a reality in October, offering him moments of joy amidst his health battle. Tylor's story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of life's simple thrills.
Upon his birth, Xander brought boundless joy into the world. However, life took an unexpected turn when he underwent surgery for tubes in his ears. What seemed routine quickly turned into a nightmare as Xander began experiencing unexplained pain and discomfort. Despite initial tests showing no cause for concern, Xander's distress persisted, leading to further investigations and the discovery of a mass in his abdomen. Following a whirlwind of medical procedures and consultations, Xander was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Despite the challenges he faced, Xander's spirit remained resilient, and his wish for a party at Funtime America was granted—a full celebration including a Stretch Limo Ride for 8, Cake, Pizza, and an unforgettable day of joy and laughter. Xander's story is a testament to his resilience and the enduring power of hope in the face of uncertainty.
Logan deals with psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder causing the body to attack its own healthy skin cells. Despite the discomfort, Logan remains determined. In December 2014, his wish to attend a Giants/Steelers football game came true. With four lower-level VIP game passes and access to the field, coaches' corner, locker room, and interview room, Logan enjoyed an unforgettable day. His story is a celebration of perseverance and the joy of dreams fulfilled.
Jack was a fifth grader who loved sports and spending time with friends. From swimming with the Red Bank YMCA Aquarockets to playing baseball for the Lincroft Little League, Jack’s passion for athletics was boundless. His active lifestyle was interrupted when he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, requiring intense chemotherapy at Monmouth Medical Center. Despite the hardships, Jack remained hopeful and filled with determination. In February 2015, his wish for signed autographs from current New York Giants players was granted, bringing a moment of joy into his life during treatment. This thoughtful gesture brought a smile to Jack’s face and reminded him of the love and support surrounding him. Jack also celebrated with his classmates at an ice cream party, made possible by Daniela's Wish. His spirit and strength continue to inspire all who knew him.
Alexis, the youngest of two children, has faced numerous challenges since birth, entering the world three months premature with multiple craniofacial abnormalities and a benign tumor under her brain. Throughout her life, she has undergone numerous surgeries to reshape her head and facial bones. On the eve of her 18th birthday, Alexis underwent her most significant surgery yet, where her entire midface was cut away and a halo was attached to her skull to gradually pull her midface forward over four months. This transformative procedure aimed to improve her breathing and ability to chew food, as well as enhance her appearance. However, despite the hopes for a "normal" life, Alexis continues to grapple with difficulties. The bones are not healing properly, and she still cannot wear her glasses, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks. Amidst these struggles, Alexis received a heartwarming surprise, as her wish for a birthday party was granted. This celebration served as a beacon of joy and hope, offering a brief respite from the hardships she has endured throughout the year.
Lucas's life took a turn when he turned two, and despite numerous medical consultations, doctors have been unable to diagnose his condition. He battles seizures, hearing loss, chronic lung problems, heart disease, brain malformation, Lennox Gastaut syndrome, and other health issues. His condition worsens as he grows older, leaving him confined to a wheelchair and reliant on constant care, akin to a four-month-old baby. Despite his hardships, Lucas's determination remains steadfast. On March 23, 2015, his wish for a Toy Story birthday party was granted, bringing him a moment of pure joy amidst his daily struggles. This celebration offered Lucas a precious opportunity to forget his worries and revel in the love and support of those around him.
Samantha, affectionately known as Sammy, came into the world on her parents' wedding anniversary. From the start, she battled Congenital Heart Disease, specifically Tetrology of Fallot (TOF). Sammy's journey has been filled with medical challenges, including two open heart surgeries, ECMO treatment for eight days, bleeding on the brain, and the need for a feeding tube for four months. She has also undergone extensive physical therapy, experienced seizures, and endured six catheterization surgeries, resulting in a stent in her pulmonary artery. Despite the hurdles she faces, Sammy's resilience shines through. In March, her wish for a Blast Zone Backyard waterslide adventure with a ball pit bounce house was granted, providing her with a much-needed moment of joy and fun amidst her ongoing medical treatments. This special experience offered Sammy a chance to forget her worries and simply be a carefree child, surrounded by love and laughter.
The son of a dedicated police officer, spirited two-year-old Andrew's life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Fibular Hemimelia, a rare disorder affecting the legs and feet, making everyday activities challenging. Faced with limited treatment options, Andrew underwent amputation, a decision that will shape his life as he adapts to wearing a prosthetic foot. Despite the challenges he faces, Andrew's joyful spirit shines through, his infectious smile brightening the lives of those around him. Andrew's wish to visit Hershey for two nights with his family was granted, offering them a memorable getaway filled with love and laughter. This special experience provided Andrew and his family with cherished moments of togetherness and joy, creating lasting memories to treasure.
Seamus's journey with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia began suddenly. The initial two years were incredibly challenging, with Seamus undergoing various treatments and surgeries, including the removal of his gallbladder last summer. Despite his resilience, Seamus faced another setback recently when his numbers dropped to zero, leading to a battle with pneumonia that landed him in the hospital for two weeks. However, there was a glimmer of hope as his counts began to rise again, sparing him from needing a bone marrow biopsy for the time being. Throughout this emotional rollercoaster, Seamus has remained a beacon of positivity, always wearing a smile and finding the silver lining in every situation. His unwavering optimism and strength have not only inspired his family but also touched the hearts of many. Recognizing the toll that cancer takes on the entire family, Seamus requested a gift for his younger brother, Danny, who has also endured the hardships of Seamus's treatment. Seamus's wish for two Nintendo DS Game Systems was granted, bringing joy to both him and his beloved brother.
Jeanne faced the devastating effects of Stage 4 Lung Cancer, a battle that had taken a toll on her body and spirit, leaving her dependent on a breathing tube for support. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Jeanne was surrounded by a loving and supportive circle of family and friends. Her twin sons, Daniel and Nicholas, both grappling with autism, were under the care of her eldest son Christopher and his family, who diligently ensured the boys stayed on track with their routines, including returning to school. Jeanne's sister Dolores had been a pillar of strength for the family, tirelessly seeking out resources and support during that trying time. With the imminent loss of their beloved Jeanne looming, the family navigated through the heartache with resilience and determination. Jeanne's sons Daniel and Nicholas received a much-needed source of joy with the granting of their wish for an Xbox One, offering them moments of distraction and happiness during that difficult period.
Devin, a vibrant 12-year-old, faced a medical journey marked by uncertainties. Initially diagnosed with globally developmental delay, her condition puzzled doctors until cerebral palsy emerged as a more fitting possibility, awaiting confirmation from a physiatrist. Alongside, Devin grappled with epilepsy, though thankfully, she hadn't experienced seizures recently and had tapered off medication. However, petite mal seizures had been a constant since birth. Compounded by low muscle tone, nystagmus, and speech dyspraxia, Devin's challenges were significant. Despite these hurdles, her family had long saved for a dream trip to Disney World, knowing her profound love for all things Disney, especially the Muppets. The decision between Disney World and a Disney cruise weighed heavily on her parents, considering Devin's sensory sensitivities and limited mobility. Ultimately, their wish was granted—a trip to a Disney timeshare with their family, ensuring cherished moments without overwhelming Devin's delicate balance of comfort and joy.
Matthew entered the world with a challenging birth defect known as cloacal exstrophy, leading to numerous surgeries to address it. More recently, another hurdle emerged: Chronic Kidney Disease. For years, Matthew has relied on dialysis, awaiting an imminent kidney transplant. A recent bladder surgery added to his medical journey. Residing in New Jersey, his transplant center was in Baltimore, Maryland. Amidst these trials, a glimmer of joy arrived when Matthew's wish was granted. Santa visited their home, delivering not only a new Xbox but also a bag of toys for Matthew and his brothers, offering moments of happiness amidst medical complexities.
Ivy, a spirited four-year-old residing in Brick, New Jersey, alongside her parents and younger sister Ava, faced adversity early on when she contracted meningitis at just six months old, resulting in permanent damage to her body. Enduring three brain surgeries, Ivy navigates daily life with a G-Tube for feeding and copes with the effects of a stroke that led to partial loss of function in her right arm. Despite her family's diligent efforts, financial strain persists as her father works tirelessly at a nail salon, grappling with mounting bills and healthcare expenses. With her mother dedicated to Ivy's care alongside her younger sibling, two-year-old Ava, Ivy's granted wish for books and toys of any kind offered a bright moment amid their challenging circumstances.
Victoria, a radiant 2 1/2-year-old girl, resides at home with her loving family, including her three older brothers, Joey, Jay-Jay, and Tyler, alongside her devoted parents Jay and Susan. About 3 years ago, concerns arose as Victoria's head size increased, her limbs stiffened, and her eyes turned outward. Despite initial dismissals from her pediatrician, Susan's intuition led them to a local hospital, where the diagnosis of fluid on her brain surfaced. Victoria's condition warranted specialized care at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where a daunting revelation unfolded: a brain tumor the size of a tangerine was discovered in the six-month-old. Following successful tumor removal and shunt insertion to manage hydrocephalus, Victoria's recovery was arduous, impeding her developmental milestones. At 1 1/2 years old, Victoria received an autism diagnosis, necessitating ongoing therapy and early intervention. Later on, shunt complications emerged, culminating in emergency surgery and subsequent infection treatment at CHOP. Amidst the turmoil, Victoria's resilient spirit shone through, earning her a "true Christmas Miracle" as she was discharged just in time to celebrate the holiday with her family. Victoria's wish for an Apple iPad was granted, offering her a source of communication connection amidst her medical journey.
Domenic, just four months old, recently underwent his second open-heart surgery for hypo plastic left heart syndrome, the same diagnosis as my daughter. After a lengthy hospitalization, he finally returned home a few days ago. Born with HLHS, aortic atresia, and Mitral atresia, Domenic's journey has been a testament to his resilience. Despite the challenges, his infectious smile lights up our lives. His parents, enduring immense hardships, have put their careers on hold to ensure Domenic receives the care he needs. With Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and tender mommy cuddles, they've weathered the storm of two extended hospital stays. Domenic's strength inspires us, infusing our lives with purpose as we stand by his side, ready to face whatever lies ahead. His wish for a small ride-on toy for his upcoming milestones reflects his boundless spirit and determination.
Jordan, a resilient 17-year-old, endured the heartbreaking loss of his 9-year-old brother to cancer after spending nearly a decade supporting him through his battle. His life revolved around hospitals and doctor visits, leaving little room for the social experiences typical of his age. Despite his immense sadness, Jordan's spirit remains strong. To provide him with a well-deserved break from his grief, I wished for him to enjoy a day of paintball with eight friends, followed by a dinner at his favorite restaurant, Applebee’s. This small gesture aimed to bring a moment of joy and distraction to Jordan's life, allowing him to create new memories and cherish the camaraderie of friends.
Carley, a resilient 15-year-old twin born prematurely at 34 weeks, has faced the challenges of hypoplastic left heart syndrome since birth. Despite undergoing multiple open-heart surgeries, she now grapples with complications from her condition and finds herself in heart failure. To bring some joy into her life, it was wished for Carley to enjoy a special outing with her twin and eight friends. They were able to travel in a limo to the movies, followed by a delightful dinner at Olive Garden. This experience provided Carley with a memorable and enjoyable day amidst her ongoing health struggles.
Lori, once a vibrant and active mom, faced a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer in 2012. Prior to her illness, she was deeply involved in her community, serving as a marathon runner, a dedicated Spanish teacher in Eatontown, and an ESL instructor for immigrants in Asbury Park. Additionally, she devoted ten years to leading Girl Scouts in Spring Lake Heights, organizing impactful events like World Thinking Day. Despite undergoing treatment, her cancer spread to her brain and spine, leading to her being placed in hospice care. Kerry, her husband of 30 years, shouldered the responsibility of caring for Lori and their six young children, including triplets. Despite their own challenges, the McBride family always extended a helping hand to those in need. Their wish was to create one last cherished memory together—a family vacation to Great Wolf Lodge. Our sincerest condolences go out to the family for their loss of their beautiful mother and wife.
Lucas, a resilient and courageous nine-year-old, faced the daunting challenge of inoperable brain stem gliomas when he was just 23 months old. Despite the complexities of his condition, Lucas approached life with unwavering determination and a bright smile. His days were filled with school, piano lessons, and special t-ball games, all while relying on a ventilator for breathing and a feeding tube for nutrition. However, Lucas longed for a simple joy that many take for granted: the chance to swing alongside other children. As summer approached, Lucas shared his wish for a new handicap swing with his family. The prospect of feeling the breeze against his face and the thrill of soaring through the air filled him with excitement. With the support of their community and the generosity of a foundation, Lucas's wish became a reality. On a warm summer day, Lucas sat in his brand-new swing, surrounded by laughter and love. With each gentle push, his spirit soared higher, reminding everyone that even in the face of adversity, joy and hope can flourish.
Nico, a resilient warrior from Sayreville, New Jersey, faced battles that challenged even the strongest of spirits. Diagnosed with AML FLT3 in December 2014, Nico confronted his disease with courage and grace. Despite the advanced stage of his illness, he endured numerous rounds of chemotherapy before undergoing a bone marrow transplant at CHOP in May 2015. The journey was arduous, marked by intense treatments and uncertain outcomes. Now, facing another difficult chapter, Nico longed for a moment of joy amidst the uncertainty. His wish was simple yet profound: to visit Build-A-Bear and select outfits for his beloved bears, especially his cherished Mr. Monkey. With his wish granted Nico was able to explore the store, filling his heart with the joy of creating new memories and celebrating the present moment with a Build-A-Bear gift card.
Austin arrived prematurely at 35 weeks. Austin battled not only his initial diagnosis of Emanuel Syndrome but also a brain tumor and a tumor in his chest. He underwent an astonishing 16 surgeries, each one a testament to his incredible strength and resilience. As he prepared for his palate surgery in the first week of September, along with an ABR procedure to assess his hearing, we yearned for a moment of respite amidst the trials. Austin's wish was simple yet profound: to visit Split Rock Resort in the Poconos, where he could enjoy the comfort of a family 2-bedroom suite for two nights. In granting his wish, we hoped to provide Austin and his family with a brief reprieve, a moment to cherish and savor amidst the challenges they faced together.
Dylan, a resilient and inquisitive seven-year-old diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, embarked on a challenging journey of treatments alongside his dedicated parents. Despite facing the hardships of intensive chemotherapy and steroid treatments, Dylan's grit showed through as he navigated through hospital stays and home-schooling. His cherished wish, to visit Hershey with his family and enjoy chocolate donuts, symbolized a beacon of hope amidst the trials he faced. Daniela's Wish was committed to making Dylan's wish a reality, recognizing the importance of creating lasting memories to uplift him during his toughest moments and celebrate his resilience.
Jake, born prematurely alongside his twin brother Aiden, faced an uphill battle from the start, spending his early months in the NICU due to his fragile health. As Jake grew, his parents noticed significant developmental differences between him and his brother, leading to a diagnosis of Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy. Determined to give Jake the best possible chance, they embarked on a rigorous regimen of therapy sessions and sought out specialists like Dr. Leon Root at the Hospital for Special Surgery. Despite setbacks like Dr. Root's passing, they persisted, finding hope and progress at Nemours Dupont Children’s Hospital. Today, thanks to Jake's perseverance and the unwavering support of his family, he has made remarkable strides, defying initial expectations by gaining mobility, speech, and independence. His wish to experience the magic of Disney reflects his spirit of resilience and determination to embrace life to the fullest, symbolizing the hope for a bright and fulfilling future ahead. The wish was granted, providing Jake with four days of Disney Hopper passes to visit Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom, along with waterpark passes, allowing him to enjoy cherished moments of joy and wonder with his family, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Joseph's journey through four years of chemotherapy for Acute-Lymphoblastic Leukemia at Goryeb Children's Hospital in Morristown has been nothing short of courageous. Despite facing numerous hurdles, including nerve damage, liver issues, and skin complications from treatment, Joseph maintained a remarkably positive outlook on life. After being in remission for almost three years, he eagerly anticipates reaching the five-year mark for full recovery. Despite the challenges, Joseph remains focused on his academic pursuits, excelling in math and science, and eagerly joining the school band to explore his musical talents. Though unable to participate in his beloved football due to his condition, he discovered a passion for lacrosse, playing with his dad and sister. His wish for an STX backyard lacrosse goal and other lacrosse gear reflects his determination to embrace life fully and pursue his interests with enthusiasm.
Avery's journey through cancer treatment has been an arduous one, marked by numerous challenges and setbacks. Diagnosed at just three years old with stage 4 neuroblastoma, she underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, full-body radiation, and stem cell rescue, enduring complications and life-threatening conditions along the way. Despite the pain and suffering, Avery's resilient spirit never wavered, and she fought bravely through each stage of treatment. Now considered NED (no evidence of disease), Avery faces the long-term effects of her cancer treatment, including organ damage, hearing loss, and kidney damage. Her wish for a new backyard playground reflects her indomitable spirit and desire to embrace life fully.
Jaiden's journey with T-Lymphoblastic Lymphoma has been challenging and transformative. Diagnosed at the age of 9, he underwent aggressive chemotherapy treatment at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), which thankfully put him in remission. Despite facing physical limitations due to a mediastinal mass and a blood clot in his leg, Jaiden persevered and gradually regained his ability to enjoy favorite activities like basketball, roller-blading, and playing on his Xbox-one. Now 10, Jaiden's resilience shines through as he navigates the ups and downs of his treatment journey with a smile. His wish to attend WWE Smackdown at the Prudential Center in NJ was granted and fun was had by all!
Michael's life took a drastic turn 2 years ago, when he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The journey began with unexplained bruising, leading to a series of tests and a devastating diagnosis. Over the next 6-8 months, Michael endured intense chemotherapy treatments, resulting in hair loss and numerous hospital stays. Despite the challenges, he returned to school in and continued his treatment regimen. Michael remains resilient as he navigates through both high school and the maintenance phase of his treatment which includes daily oral chemo and regular visits to the Cancer Institute of NJ. His wish for a new HP laptop was granted at Best Buy in Freehold, providing him with a source of entertainment and connectivity during his treatment journey and beyond. He has decided he may like to become a pediatric oncologist in the future.
Paul, a resilient 15-year-old sophomore, faced a daunting challenge when diagnosed with Craniopharyngioma, a rare brain tumor. Despite undergoing surgery and managing to keep his grades up, the tumor returned a year later, requiring another extensive 10-hour surgery. Throughout his ordeal, Paul's positive spirit and infectious smile have remained undimmed, earning him the title of "HERO" from his devoted mother. However, his inability to return to school and limited social interactions due to his medical condition posed a challenge. Paul's wish for an Apple iPad was granted, providing him with a means to connect with others and forge friendships, especially with another young man facing similar challenges. Through technology, they can share their struggles and find solace in each other's company, offering support and understanding in their daily battles. Despite financial hardships, Paul's family remains grateful for his survival, embodying resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity.
Meet Karen and her four children, who faced unimaginable hardship when Hurricane Sandy ravaged their home, leaving them with nothing. With two of her children living with disabilities, Karen's family was especially vulnerable. In the midst of this devastation, Daniela's Wish became a ray of hope, granting Karen's family their first wish: a new Xbox for her autistic son. But our support didn't end there. Understanding the urgent need for rebuilding, we provided $1550.00 worth of Home Depot gift cards, offering Karen and her family not just tools and materials, but a lifeline to rebuild their home and their lives. In June 2012, we delivered not only tangible gifts but also a sense of hope and resilience as Karen's family embarked on their journey of recovery.