Children`s Wish Book - The Children`s Wish Foundation of Canada

DAN A IDAN AILSA A L BE RT A L DE N A L E XA NDR A A LEXA NDR A A LEXA NDR A A LEXA S A L EXIS A L EXI
AMA NDA AM AN DA AMA NDA AMIN A MY ANA S TA S I A A NATOLI A NAYA A NDR EA A N D REW A N D REW
APRIL APR IL ARC HIE ARIA NNA AS HL EY A S H LEY A S H LEY A S H T EN A S H TON AURO RA AU S TIN
BE N JAMIN B EN JAM IN BE NJA MIN BE RTTI NA BLA I NE BLA KE BODI BR A D BR A D B RA D EN B RA D E
BRA NDON B RANDON BRANDON BRANDON BR A NDON BR A NDON BR A NDON BR AN D O N B RA N D O
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RON CAMERO N CAME RON CAMIL L E CA NDAC E C A NDI C E C A R A -J OY C A R L C A R L CA RL EE CA RL
N CE E JAY C HAD CH AD CHA NCE CHANTA L C H A NT EL C H A NT ELLE C H A NT R ES E CH A RITY CH A RI
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NIEL DANIELE DANIE L L E DANIE L L E DANI KA DA R EEI ON DA R I A N DA R I S DA R R I N DAVID DAVID
DE R EK DESIRAE D E S IRE E DE VA N DE V IN DEVI N DEVON DEVON DEVON DI A NA D IA N E D IA N N E
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AK I SABELLA ISIS IZ A K JACE JACK JAC K JAC KS ON JAC LYN JAC OB JAC OB JACQU ELY N JA D E
L JA N E L L E JAN ELLE JA NE L L E JANICE JA NI C E JA R ED JA R ED JA R ED JA S MI NE JA S M IN E JA S M I
E JE ANNA JEFFER EY JE F F E RY JE F F RE Y J ELENA J ENELL J ENNA J ENNA J ENNA JEN N ICA JEN N IF
SE JESSE JESSE JES S E JE SS E JE SS E J ES S I C A J ES S I C A J ES S I C A J ES S I C A J ES S IE JIL L JIL L I
JON AH JO NATHAN JONATHA N JONATHA N J ONAT H A N J ONAT H A N J ONAT H A N J ONATH O N JO N ATH O
SHUA JOSHUA JO SH UA JOSHUA JOSHUA J OS H UA J U LI A J U LI A J U S T I N J U S T I N JU S TIN JU S TIN
ARL KARRIN GTON KA RS TE N KATE L E E N KAT H ER I NE KAT H ER I NE KAT H LEEN KAT HL EEN K ATH RY N
LY K E L LY KELLY KEL SE Y KE L S E Y KE LVI N KENDR A KENDR A KENDR A KENNEDY K EN T K ETU RA
KONNOR KR AIG KRI STIN KRIS TOF F E R K R I S T Y KR I S T Y KROS S KRYS TA KU LLA N K U RTIS K U RTI
RYN LE AH A LEANDRA L E ANNE L E E L E ELA N LEI F LEI G H LEI LA NI LENA LENAYA L EN O RE L EO
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IA MARIAH M AR IE MARIS S A MA RK MA R K MA R K MA R K MA R K MA R T I N MA RY M A RY M A S O N
THE W MATTHEW M ATTHE W MATTHIE U M A XWELL MC KENNA MC KI NLEY MEG A N M EL D O N M EL IN
H MI CH AE L MIC HAEL MICHAE L MICHA EL MI C H A EL MI C H A EL MI C H A EL MI C H E L L E M ICH EL L E
YA M YL ES MYRO N NADYA NA MCA NATALI E NATA LI E NATA S H A NATA S H A NAT E N ATH A N N ATH A
NICKOLAS N ICO NICOL E NIGE L NIKOL A NI KOLA S NOA H NOA H OKEI R A OLI VER O L IVIA O L IVIA
L PAU LA PETER PRE SL E Y PRE STON P R ES TON QU I NC Y QU I NN R AC H ELLE R A KA N RA N D I RA N I
RIK KI RIL EY R ILEY RIL E Y RIL E Y RIL E Y ROB ROBBI E ROBBI E ROBER T ROBER T RO B ERT RO B E
N RYAN RYAN RYAN RYAN RYAN RYAN RYA N RYLEY S A MA NT H A S A MA NT H A SA M A RA S A M UA
AH SCOTT SCOTT SE A N S E A N S E A N S EA N S ER ENA S ER ENI T Y S H A DYN S H A E S H A L EA H S H A N
HAY LIN SHAYN A SHE L BY S HE MUE L SHER I S H I R EEN S H I VA WN S I ER R A S I ER R A S IL K EN S IO U
N S T EPH ANIE STEPHA NIE STE PHE N STER LI NG S T EVEN S T EVEN S T EVEN S T EVEN S TEVEN S TEV
NIK A TANIS HA TAN NE R TANNE R TANYA TA R A TA RYN TA S C H A TA S H A TAYA TAYA TAY L O R TAY L O R
TERRY TH AD DEUS TH OMA S THOMAS TH OMA S T H OMA S T I MOT H Y T I MOT H Y T I T US TO B IN TRAVI
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WE SL IE WHITN EY W IL L IAM WIL L IAM W I NS TON WYAT T XAVI A R ZAC H A RY ZA KK ZA N D ER ZO E
Wish it forward
C E L E B R AT I N G 3 0 Y E A R S
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
I
Partners in
Granting Wishes
For 30 years the Children’s Wish Foundation (CWF) has
been fulfilling the dreams of children with life-threatening
illnesses. Blue Cross has been a proud partner of the CWF
since 1997, helping to bring these dreams to life.
An exclusive agreement with Blue Cross across Canada
enables the CWF to grant travel wishes anywhere in the
world. Blue Cross plans provide free medical insurance,
waiving the pre-existing condition exclusion for wish children so
families can travel knowing their medical needs are fully supported.
Over the past 17 years Blue Cross travel medical plans have
provided peace of mind to nearly 10,000 Canadian wish families
travelling throughout the world.
Saskatchewan Blue Cross has provided travel insurance for over
350 travel wishes since the partnership began. A child and family
living with a life-threatening illness experiences frequent trips to
the hospital, numerous missed days at school and work, and
constant bouts of pain and anxiety. We are pleased to play a
role in giving these courageous young people something in life to look
forward to. In fact, it’s an honour to help Saskatchewan wish children and their
families make happy memories that will last a lifetime.
We’ve been a strong supporter of the Children’s Wish Foundation Saskatchewan
Chapter in other ways as well. From 2009-2013 we were the Title Sponsor of
the Saskatchewan Blue Cross Swing & A Wish Golf Tournament and a Provincial
Sponsor of the Wishmaker Walk for Wishes. You could find our employees
engaged on the front lines at both these events, interacting with golfers, adding
to the day’s fun, and helping raise funds for CWF wishes.
Saskatchewan Blue Cross has been providing True Blue Care to the people of
Saskatchewan for over 65 years. We are a leader in corporate social responsibility,
giving back in meaningful ways to the community that supports our business. It
gives us great pleasure to partner with organizations such as the CWF who share
our goal of supporting Saskatchewan families.
www.sk.bluecross.ca
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WISH IT FORWARD
Almost thirty years
have passed and
our family still can
recall that trip as if
it were yesterday.
Christine
(1978 – 1987)
C
hristine was 8 years old when she was diagnosed with an
in-operable brain stem tumour. Living in Prince Albert, we
spent months at the Royal University Hospital for surgeries,
cancer treatments and check ups – all the things that a sick child
goes through, but the family is never prepared for it emotionally
or financially. Our family of five changed in many ways, and with
Christine’s illness, we had no resources or reason to dream of a
family vacation during this stressful time.
We met with the Children’s Wish
Foundation at the hospital and,
after we talked about Christine's
special wish to meet Mickey Mouse
at Disneyland, the best thing in the
world happened. Our family was going
to Disneyland in California to meet
Mickey Mouse!
In December 1986, all the
arrangements for medical
permissions, medication, travel,
hotel, meals and a private meeting
with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland
were made by the Children’s Wish
Foundation for our family. We flew
from Saskatoon to Vancouver, where
we were greeted and escorted to
a private family sitting area until
our connecting flight took us to
sunny Los Angeles, California.
We went to Anaheim, stayed at a
nice hotel with a swimming pool
and anxiously awaited our trip to
Disneyland.
Christine loved it – she had so
much fun and was so excited
to meet with Mickey Mouse in
her private visit. All the staff
treated us with great care and no
attention to detail was missed.
We met a lot of characters, went
on some rides, and generally
forgot about all the problems we
were facing with her health and
the future for a few days.
We made memories that have lasted a lifetime. As a legacy, both her
brother and sister have returned to Disneyland to recapture the happy
time we shared during their early childhood, with their sister Christine.
It was the best trip we could have hoped for as a family – but
unfortunately it was the last holiday we shared with our very special
daughter and sister, Christine. Almost thirty years have passed and our
family still can recall that trip as if it were yesterday.
Christine passed away on January 20, 1987 and we have missed her
very much. 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
1
Angel
A
ngel was born with a congenital condition called Diaphragmatic
Hernia, or, in simpler terms, a hole in her diaphragm. Shortly after
she was born, she underwent surgery to fix the hole. Just a couple
of years later she endured another surgery to remove a damaged lung.
At age six, Angel began to develop a curvature of the spine, a condition
known as scoliosis. Surgeons had to operate again—this time to place
rods along the sides of her spine to keep it straight. As Angel grew, she
would need more surgeries to increase the length of the rods. By the
time she was ten years old, she had already undergone nine surgeries,
with several more expected until she finally stops growing.
Adrienne, Angel’s mom, understandably encourages her daughter to be
careful as she’s playing or riding her bike. “I’m always watching her in
case she falls,” Adrienne said. “But otherwise, she plays like a normal
ten-year old.”
Angel, again like many ten-year olds, also dreamt of meeting Disney
Princesses and buying a princess dress
of her own so that she can play as Snow
She was so happy!
White. With the help of her doctors, and
the Children’s Wish Foundation, Angel’s wish came true in May of 2013.
Angel traveled to Disney World in Florida, along with her Mom, her
two brothers, a cousin, as well as an aunt and uncle. She met Disney
Princesses and bought her very own Snow White dress.
There is a photograph of Angel, standing tall and looking enchanting in
her Snow White dress. “She was so happy!” Adrienne explained, “we all
enjoyed it. It was a once in a lifetime fun.”
The memories the family created during their visit to Disney World will
clearly last long after she has outgrown her princess dress. 
Cortenay
I
(1972 – 1987)
t took the Children’s Wish Foundation less than a day to
arrange a special visit by hockey player Wendal Clark to a
hospital room in Saskatoon’s University Hospital. Clark,
a current Toronto Maple Leaf (at the time) and a former
Saskatoon Blade, was in the city for the Blades reunion. He not
only took time out of his busy schedule to visit a very sick young
man, but he also brought with him a special gift – portable
Apple computer.
The year was 1987 and the Children’s Wish Foundation had
been operating for just five years. Clark was the Foundation’s
honorary Saskatchewan chairman and 15-year old Cortenay
was dying of Cystic Fibrosis. The wish the teen received that day
was the first ever to be granted in the city of Saskatoon and the
ninth in the Province.
Even so, Cortenay’s wish was his third choice. He was simply
too ill to be granted his first and second choices: a dirt bike
or a trip to visit his older brother’s home and Disneyland in
California. Both of Cortenay’s lungs had collapsed, and he
had recently undergone an operation so serious that his three
siblings had flown in from their homes in California, Calgary and
Regina to be with their mother Beverlee, at Cortenay’s bedside.
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WISH IT FORWARD
Wish number three was
Enjoy what you have. Not
made possible when
so much the quantity of
Cortenay, a student in
time you have left. Why
the Advanced Program at
Bedford Road Collegiate,
not just the quality? Make
happened to comment
the best of it that you can
that he’d had his eye
and do what you think is
on a computer as a
right. Go with the flow.
“back-up” wish. Working
quickly, the Children's
Wish Foundation acquired a computer and approached Clark
and his agent about making the presentation. Along with
the computer, the pair also presented Cortenay with an
autographed Maple Leafs t-shirt and a hockey cap.
The visit, said Beverlee, was “absolutely fantastic. It means
people out there care about what’s happening.”
Cortenay had this to say to other kids battling terminal
illnesses: “Enjoy what you have. Not so much the quantity of
time you have left. Why not just the quality? Make the best of it
that you can and do what you think is right. Go with the flow.” 
Casey
F
or his fifth birthday, the Children’s Wish Foundation sent Casey and
his family to Disney World. Casey, who wasn’t expected to live past
his fifth birthday, was celebrating an important milestone in his
young life.
Diagnosed with Neuroblastoma at just a few months old, Casey had
tumours on his adrenal glands and lungs. With such poor prognosis,
the doctor’s prepared Casey’s family to expect the worst. Casey was
exceptionally responsive to treatment however, and, in the months that
followed, he exceeded doctors’ expectations. Just over one year after
his initial diagnosis, Casey’s doctors were pleased to announce that his
cancer was in remission and that no more
treatment would be necessary.
It’s kind of fun to
Although Casey wished to go to Disney
do the impossible.
when he was three years old, his parents
- Walt Disney
wanted to wait until he was old enough to
truly appreciate the magic of the experience.
Employees at Disney are trained to focus on the happiness of the
children who visit and Casey was no exception. The attention and special
treatment he received made Casey feel like a rockstar. The family was
allowed to bypass line-ups and attend VIP meetings with Disney
characters around the park, making them all feel like royalty.
Casey celebrated his birthday with cake and presents first thing in
the morning. The best part of the day however, involved two chance
meetings with Pluto. Casey asked Pluto to sign his shirt and Pluto
motioned for Casey to take it off so he wouldn’t get marker on him.
This special attention from Pluto made Casey feel great. Later that
day, at the Jungle Parade in the Animal Kingdom, Pluto came right up
to Casey, gave him a high five, patted his head and tickled his belly.
Casey looked back at this parents in delight and exclaimed, “he
remembers me from this morning!”
“We can’t thank the Foundation enough for making all of this
possible,” said Casey’s mom, Brenda. “Our kids talk about it
over and over again and they also make reference to Casey
being the reason we went on this trip. I am so proud of them for
understanding what all this is about. I can’t believe that four and a
half years ago, Dr. Ali said that Casey would probably not make it
because he was so full of cancer, and here we are celebrating his
fifth birthday at Disney World. Dreams really do come true! Thanks
to the Children’s Wish Foundation for making Casey’s wish so
absolutely amazing.” 
Pluto came right up to
Casey, gave him a high
five, patted his head and
tickled his belly.
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
3
Emily
S
(1995 – 2003)
he had leukemia. After she relapsed she spent the whole time in the
hospital and we didn’t think she could get a wish. When they told us
they are stopping treatments and she would die in a very short time,
we were obviously devastated. We did not want to apply for a wish because
we were just so sad and it felt wrong because we knew she would not be
here long. The nurses at RUH were wonderful and they encouraged us to
apply anyway. About the only thing Emily could wish for was a big screen tv
because she would be at home bedridden.
The day the tv was delivered there were a couple of palliative care nurses
at our house trying to encourage Emily to drink Ensure—she hated that
stuff because of all she had had in the year before. Well just then the
delivery men arrived with the big screen tv!! Emily was SO excited! She
jumped off the couch and even though she was very frail, she pushed past
those two nurses and went to the front door to let the guys in. She was SO
HAPPY!!! Emily enjoyed her new tv and all the movies Children’s Wish gave
her so much.
For the last month, all she could really do was lay on the couch. At a time
when she felt like the whole world was passing her by, she felt like there was
still someone out there who cared enough about her (other than her family)
to give her something to help her feel included and try to help her feel better.
I was very impressed with the way everything was handled by CWF. They
were extremely kind and compassionate with us and they treated Emily like
it was important to them that her last days would be fun and that she would
be as happy as possible. The Foundation gave us hope and strength at
such a stressful time so that we could be there for Emily and continue to do
special things with her. We were so terrified but Children’s Wish gave us the
message that it was not over.
I will always be grateful to Children’s Wish. There probably are many times
when not enough thanks is given. I know that what CWF does is so amazing
that words can hardly begin to explain what it means to people. It is not
about what we get in material ways, it is about how the Foundation brings
so many families together and helps them to just be ‘normal’ families
again, even if just for a short while.
Emily’s mom,
Brenda 
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WISH IT FORWARD
It is not about what we get in
material ways, it is about how
the Foundation brings so many
families together and helps them
to just be ‘normal’ families again,
even if just for a short while.
Jakob + Isaak
B
rothers Jakob and Isaak have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a
disease that progressively weakens all the muscles in the body.
There is currently no cure and treatment options only focus on
controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. As such, it is truly
important for those facing this diagnosis to live their lives to the fullest.
Jakob, the eldest of the brothers,
Brothers Jakob and Isaak
was the first to have his wish
have Duchenne Muscular
granted by the Foundation in
Dystrophy … it is truly
2004. He chose to go on a trip
to Disneyland with his brother,
important for those facing
parents and grandparents. The
this diagnosis to live their
trip was high-paced as the family
lives to the fullest.
was consistently on the go, not
wanting to miss out on any of the wonderful things that Disneyland had
to offer. At the end of the vacation, though the family understandably
felt a little worn out, they were very happy that they got to experience
such a special trip together. The boys’ grandfather has since passed
away, making memories of their vacation with him especially important.
When it came time for Isaak to have his wish, the family went on
another trip. The second wish trip, taken in 2009, was a little more
relaxed. Rather than choosing to spend time at an Amusement Park
like his brother, Isaak chose to go to a tropical Caribbean island. The
idea came to him when he read about a place in Grand Cayman where
you could adopt a sea turtle and set it free—he knew that’s what he
wanted to do. While in Grand Cayman, the family spent a lot of time
enjoying the scenery and simply soaking up the experience. Though
Isaak’s trip was a lot different from Jakob’s, both trips were a lot of fun
and will be treasured by the family for many years to come.
Mateo
Facing the same challenges, the boys and their parents are grateful
that they have a community of support behind them and are very
thankful for their experiences with Children’s Wish. 
I
n July 2007, Mateo was diagnosed with Leukemia. He began
chemotherapy right away, but then hit another bump in the road,
which he did not remember fondly. “I had chicken pox and it’s no fun
to have chemo and chicken pox.”
Mateo got over his chicken pox, finished his treatment in November
2008 and had his central line removed in January of 2009. At the time
he told us “I’m feeling good now because I have no cancer.”
Mateo’s original wish was to take a holiday
by train. “I love trains and I have never been
on a train that has beds. I better bring some
of my things,” he said.
I'm feeling good
now because I
have no cancer.
Mateo did not want to have his wish granted until he was older, so, in
January of 2011, along with his mother and grandparents, he finally
jetted off on his wish. Although he originally wanted to incorporate
trains, Mateo settled on a Southern California wish. A dream come
true, the family spent a week visiting Disneyland, Legoland, Sea World
and the San Diego Zoo. 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
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5
Anna
E
very year, the Children’s Wish Foundation of
Canada partners with the Canadian Show Jumping
Tournament (CSJT) to make dreams come true for
children with high-risk, life threatening illnesses who
have expressed a wish for a horse or pony.
In 2008, it was Anna’s turn. Diagnosed with a brain
tumour, ten-year old Anna had to undergo surgery to
reduce the pressure the tumour was putting on her
brain before she and her family were able to travel to
the Caledon Equestrian Park in Palgrave, Ontario. Anna,
already a fan of show jumping, received her new pony
from two of the biggest names in Canadian show
jumping history, Olympic Champion Eric Lamaze
Anna, already a fan of
and nine-time Olympian Ian Millar. In addition to
show
jumping, received
receiving her pony, riding out into the show ring
her
new
pony from two
and participating in the medal ceremonies, Anna
also snagged autographed photos of herself with
of the biggest names
her show jumping heroes.
in Canadian show
jumping
When the tournament was over, the family brought
Skye, a 14 hands high Appaloosa Pony of the
Americas, back with them to their farm in Tisdale, Saskatchewan to live
amongst their other horses. Soon, Anna began taking riding lessons—
one of her goals was to learn how to jump.
history …
“Skye does anything you ask him to,” Anna’s mom, Julie, told
reporters. “You can go out trail riding but you can also go to
competitions. You can lead him down the road if you want to take him
for a walk, like a puppy dog.” She added, “Everywhere we go, people
ask about him. It’s nice because we get to share with a lot of people
how we got him. We couldn’t imagine life without him.” 
Leanne
I
n 2008, Leanne learned that she needed a liver transplant.
In the year that followed, the young woman underwent
surgery and treatment, all the while keeping up with her
school work. To celebrate her graduation from grade 12,
Leanne wished for a trip to the Bahamas. “It’s been one of
my dreams to travel somewhere far and beautiful,” she noted
at the time. Leanne is the youngest child in a large family and
had not had many chances to travel
up to that point in her life. “This
To celebrate her
will be my first time to travel out of
graduation from
Canada,” she explained. “I’m very
grade 12, Leanne happy and excited to be given this
opportunity.”
wished for a trip
to the Bahamas.
Leanne looked forward to
snorkeling and spending time on
the beach. She hoped the much anticipated holiday would be
both relaxing and re-energizing before she entered University
in the fall. To the Children’s Wish Foundation, she expressed a
heartfelt thank you “for making my dream a reality.” 
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WISH IT FORWARD
Paige
I
n 2006, when Paige was just 18-months old, she was diagnosed
with an aggressive form of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. While
undergoing treatment at Royal University Hosptial, her immune
system became so weak that she was unable to play with the toys and
play structures provided, or even to play with other children.
When Paige was three years old, her mother asked the Children’s Wish
Foundation for a playhouse and outdoor play set that Paige could call
her own.
“She wanted it before she knew she was picking out a wish, which
made it all the more special,” says Michelle. Eventually, the playhouse,
Michelle
reported,
She wanted it before
became “kid
she knew she was
central!”
picking out a wish.
By June of
2008, five years
after her last treatment, Paige was cancer free.
As she is still very aware that other children
are facing challenges similar to the one she
had faced, Paige continues to be involved with
the Children’s Wish Foundation. Along with
her mom, Paige attends fundraising events,
speaks publicly to raise awareness, and sells
homemade “cancer rocks” to raise money for
the Foundation.
Today, Paige is ten years old and thriving. A
true Children’s Wish Ambassador, Paige is
never far away when an event is taking place
to raise awareness. Whether she is filming
an update video for the foundation, singing
the National Anthem at our Annual General
Meeting in Saskatoon in the spring of 2014,
or playing the part of mayor at Exile Island,
Paige has become a part of the Children’s
Wish family. Looking forward to the future, her
mom says “Paige looks forward to her next
contributions to this Foundation, she always
has something going on or in the works!” 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
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7
Rayna
I
(2004 – 2011)
n August of 2007, Rayna was diagnosed with Acute
Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Treatment for the disease involves
frequent visits to the Cancer Clinic, chemotherapy and, of
course, frequent needle pokes. Rayna had managed to get
through all of it, and by September 2008, she had entered the
maintenance phase of her treatment protocol. Life had become
a little more “normal” for Rayna—she was feeling better and
enjoying the longer periods of time between needle pokes. She
was also looking forward to growing her hair long enough to wear
clips and pigtails again.
She told her mom that while
she was on her trip it didn’t
feel like she had cancer.
Unfortunately, in
December of 2008, the
cancer relapsed in her
central nervous system
and the treatment protocol had to begin all over again. This time
however, chemotherapy treatments had to be much more intense
radiation treatments to her brain and spine were also necessary.
The second bout of treatment was much harder on Rayna than
the first. She spent much more time in hospital and it took her
body longer than it did the first time
to regain its strength after each round
of chemotherapy. Rayna suffered
many setbacks and side effects of
treatment.
Through this difficult time, Rayna
maintained her good spirits. She spent
her days talking about the fun she’d
had when she was feeling better and
planning what she would do when she
felt well again.
Thanks to the Children’s Wish
Foundation, Rayna was able to make
plans to travel and, in 2010, she
visited Disney World. Her wish was to
visit the Disney princesses and along
with granting the wish, the Children’s
Wish Foundation granted the wish
of Rayna’s family—that she would
experience a holiday of a lifetime.
Rayna loved her time in Disney World
and upon returning home she told
her mom that while she was on her trip it didn’t
feel like she had cancer. All she thought about was having fun! For her
family, it was wonderful to watch Rayna experiencing so many new and
wonderful things in Disney World. To see her eyes light up and watch
her excitement was such a beautiful thing. For that week, everyone
with Rayna felt like she wasn’t battling cancer, what a dream come
true!
Sadly, Rayna lost her battle with cancer in 2011. 
8
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WISH IT FORWARD
Dustin
O
n February 2, 2007, at the age of 14, Dustin was diagnosed with
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He did not know what the future
held or the challenges he would face, but his long-held motto had
always been “Never give up, never give in.” His supporters also made
this their mantra as they rallied behind Dustin during treatments and
hospitalizations.
Dustin began treatment right away and was informed that he would
require a bone marrow transplant, a procedure that could only be
performed in Manitoba. After testing the entire family, it was discovered
that his sister Ashley was a perfect match. For the next 6 months,
Dustin and his family stayed in
Winnipeg away from friends and
It wasn’t just about the
family back in North Battleford.
wish trip but it was a
Dustin found out early in his
chance to plan and dream
diagnosis that he was approved for
of all the different ideas
a wish and decided that he would
he
had for a trip when he
like a new mountain bike and to go
was so sick in hospital.
ride the trails of Whistler/
Blackcomb Mountain. He
was so sick that it was tough to see his wish become reality
at first, but he said all along that he did not want to be a
spectator on the trails—he wanted to participate.
Devastating news came to the family that the cancer had
relapsed just before his bone marrow transplant surgery was
to occur. The next step was intensive full body radiation,
followed by the transplant surgery and then several months of
isolation. Unfortunately, Dustin’s body rejected the transplanted bone
marrow resulting in severe and painful skin rashes. Once
treated, Dustin and his family were able to return to North
Battleford, but would make several trips over the course of a
year back to Winnipeg for follow-up appointments.
When his health deteriorated further, Dustin went back to
the hospital, spending 12 full weeks there. His mom, Donna,
reported that there were 4 distinct times when Dustin faced
his own mortality. At the time she said, “It felt like there
were 2 steps forward, but 20 steps back on this road.”
During one period, he weighed a mere 76 lbs and was on
a feeding tube. However, through it all, his motto remained
the same, “Never give up and never give in.”
Eventually, with additional treatments, more time in the
hospital and the help of dedicated healthcare professionals,
Dustin’s condition improved. He was able to return to
school and began thinking about the second part of his
wish—to travel to Blackcomb Bike Park in Whistler, BC, ride
the trails extensively, learn new bike tricks and experience heli-biking.
When asked about Dustin’s wish trip, his dad, Darryl, had this to say, “It
wasn’t just about the wish trip but it was a chance to plan and dream of
all the different ideas he had for a trip when he was so sick in hospital.
It took him away from a very sad and terrible place for any child, to a
place that gave him/us some hope. The wish trip was very well planned
and to see him at the top of Whistler was icing on the cake and almost
unbelievable. WE MADE IT!” 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
9
Kelsey
W
hen 17-year old Kelsey was told that
she was eligible to be granted a wish
be the Children’s Wish Foundation, she
laughed and said, “Children’s Wish would never
pick me. I’m almost an adult and right now, I’m
doing fine.”
Unfortunately, as time passed, her optimism
began to waiver. In the months that followed,
Kelsey was in and out of the hospital on a
regular basis. It was while she was lying on a
bench in the Emergency Room’s waiting area
that she told her mom it might be a good idea
to take her wish.
Granted her wish through the Children’s Wish
Foundation, Kelsey decided she would like to
visit Hawaii, accompanied by her mom, dad
and best friend. Shortly after she made her decision, Kelsey’s
health took a turn for the worse and, for a while, the family was
not certain they would be able to make the trip happen. However,
at the last moment, Kelsey’s doctor changed her medication.
The new medication gave her the strength she needed. With
only fourteen hours
before her plane was
She left a message on her
scheduled to depart,
family’s answering machine
Kelsey and her parents
ensuring that they would
started packing their
always be able to treasure the bags.
excitement in her voice …
Kelsey loved Hawaii and
enjoyed surfing most of
all. Over the first few days in paradise, Kelsey spent a lot of her
time resting and was resigned to the fact that she would likely be a
spectator as her parents and best friend attempted to catch waves.
However, on the day the family was booked for lessons, Kelsey felt
a surge of energy. With special attention from the surf center staff
she was able to complete two full lessons of her own!
Kelsey also took advantage of the free long-distance calling her
hotel offered. Phoning her home number in Regina, she left a
message on her family’s answering machine ensuring that they
would always be able to treasure the excitement in her voice,
remembering the vacation they had all taken together.
Shortly after returning from Hawaii, Kelsey sent a personal note to
the Children’s Wish Foundation. “Children’s Wish really went above
and beyond what I had ever expected. Thank-you for everything! You
guys really know how to grant a wish.” 
10
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WISH IT FORWARD
Mitch
“I
have been a basketball player since I was in about grade 4. In
January of 2008, my right knee started getting sore. My parents
and I thought that I probably hurt my knee playing basketball so
my mom took me to a physiotherapist for treatment. My knee kept getting
more painful so I went to our family doctor. He thought it was more serious
than a sports injury and sent me right away for an x-ray. The next day, I saw
a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. She ordered an MRI, CT and bone scans
to make a diagnosis, but she was pretty sure from the original x-ray that
I had a cancerous tumour in my right femur, just above my knee. I had a
biopsy done on March 4th, 2008 to
I am working hard with a
confirm that it was a type of bone
cancer called osteosarcoma. It is
sports physiotherapist so
the same type of cancer that Terry
that I can return to playing
Fox had.
the sport that I love.
Before I went for my first
chemotherapy treatment, my parents and I met with my oncologist, a
social worker and one of the Pediatric Cancer Centre nurses to go over my
treatment. They also mentioned that I would be eligible for a wish with the
Children’s Wish Foundation. At that point, I didn’t really think about making
a wish. I knew that I had to have many rounds of chemotherapy and a
major surgery (a rotationplasty done in Vancouver). I wanted to wait until
my treatment was completely finished before I made my wish.
My wish is to meet Kobe Bryant, an NBA all-star that plays for the Los
Angeles Lakers. He has been my favourite player since I began following
NBA and playing basketball myself. Maybe he can give me a few pointers
for improving my shot. I am working hard with a sports physiotherapist so
that I can return to playing the sport that I love.”
David
Today, Mitch is attending the Wheelchair Basketball Academy at the
University of Toronto, pursuing his basketball dreams! 
D
avid was born with giant Omphalocele Ventricular Septal Defect—a
condition that causes the organs to herniate outside the body through
the baby’s umbilical cord. The little boy from Humboldt, Saskatchewan,
spent much of his early life in hospitals here and in Calgary.
The Children’s Wish Foundation met David’s parents one day in 2011. His
immune system was severely weakened, which meant that a travel wish would
not be possible. Instead, his parents encouraged David to think about camping.
David, who hates crowds anyway, wished for
a camper.
A camper meant the
family could build their
'own little wonderland.'
“He’s such a little outdoorsmen,” his mom,
Tracy, said. A camper meant the family could
build their “own little wonderland.”
With funds supplied by the Children’s Wish Foundation, the family approached
their home town RV dealership, South 20 Dodge. “They really stepped up,” said
Brent, David’s dad, of the camper and service provided by the dealership. “They
went above and beyond.”
David’s camper allows him to enjoy the outdoors with his family and provides
them with the additional benefit of a relaxing place to call home during their trips
to Calgary Children’s Hospital. 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
11
Jordan
B
(1994 – 2011)
orn in Waldheim, Saskatchewan, Jordan was a
vivacious, active 15-year old when she was diagnosed
with Ovarian Cancer: she passed away just 2 years
later at the age of 17.
Jordan was a talented high school and club volleyball player.
In the summer of 2009, just after her 15th birthday, she
was selected as a member of Saskatchewan Volleyball’s
Under 16 Women’s Provincial Team. She was diagnosed
with Ovarian Cancer six months later and, much sooner
than she hoped, became unable to play her favourite
sport. Jordan and her family soon realized, however, that
they had the support of the volleyball community, as well
as the community at large.
The Children’s Wish Foundation was one organization that
had a big impact on Jordan as she patiently endured a
grueling two years of tests and surgeries. Overjoyed to
discover that she had been granted a wish, she wrote on
her blog, “They realy mean that they will actually grant
you a WISH. They will do almost anything you ask for…all
from meeting a celebrity to going on a trip.”
Jordan knew she wanted
to take a trip somewhere
warm, but she didn’t know
where. In a blog post,
she wrote, “The day I went in to get
my port put in, I told my dad to just look
around on the internet for some cool
resorts.” When she was in the recovery
room, her dad showed her what he had found – a resort in Jamaica.
She wrote, “It looks perfect…especially for our family!”
The Children’s Wish
Foundation was a
huge blessing to our
family as they made
this trip possible!
Later, she offered her readers some details of the family’s visit and
expressed her appreciation for the organization that had made it
possible. “Our days in Jamaica included lots of sun, lots of drinks,
and lots of food…tons of salt water…Usually at some point in the day
we went out on a snorkel trip or went scuba diving which was a great
experience!” Then she added, “The Children’s Wish Foundation was a
huge blessing to our family as they made this trip possible! The whole
family had such a good time wishing we could all stay for the rest of
the winter.”
Sadly, the cancer took Jordan’s life in December of 2011, slightly less
than a year after the family returned from the tropics.
In early February 2013, Saskatchewan Volleyball and the Waldheim
Raiders Saskatchewan Valley Volleyball Club proudly hosted the first
annual Jordan Zacharias Memorial Volleyball Classic. Held at the
Hank Ruys Soccer Centre in Saskatoon, the annual event is intended
to support the ongoing work of the Saskatchewan Chapter of the
Children’s Wish Foundation and to carry Jordan’s legacy forward. 
12
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WISH IT FORWARD
Steven
I
n August of 2009, Steven, the active son of a farming family,
complained of a sore shoulder. The family took their son to the doctor,
thinking it was most likely a dirt biking injury of some kind. However,
after two weeks without improvement in his shoulder, Steven had some
blood work done. When his test results came back, it was discovered
that his white blood cell count was through the roof and Steven was
immediately admitted to Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon.
Steven was diagnosed with a type of cancer called Anaplastic Large Cell
Lymphoma. “It’s an aggressive cancer,” Steven’s mother Carey, said at
the time. “The thing that surprised us the most was how fast it came
on. He went from being a pretty normal boy to being on oxygen and
bedridden.”
Steven’s wish was a bit “off the beaten path,”—or rather, it was
something that would take him off the beaten path—he wanted a camper
trailer. Though not a typical wish, this was Steven’s way of ensuring that
his family would weather the storm of his illness together.
“Sometimes people are driven apart by this in a family,” explained Carey.
“Something like this wish is that little thing that can bring people back
together and remind them how important family is. Steven would say,
‘when I feel better, we’ll be able to go camping together.’ Sick kids need
that light at the end of the tunnel.”
The family was humbled and overwhelmed by their Wish Foundation
gift. In the darker times, when Steven was at the end of his rope with
treatment or, when he felt like his family was being torn apart, he
always had the promise of camping trips in his new trailer to lift
his spirits.
“There can never be enough thanks,” Carey and Brent said. “We as
parents try to do as much as we can for our kids. But sometimes
it’s what others do that brings everybody together.”
Steven’s mom updated us in November of 2014:
“The first
His wish from the Children’s Wish
family trip
Foundation has helped him in two
with the new
camper was
important stages in his life: to help
to Waskesiu
him look forward to the future and
Lake in July of
now
it is making his future a reality.
2010. All of us had a
blast and, for the first
time in a long time, Steven’s cancer struggle was not in the spotlight.
Instead the focus became campfires, wiener roasts, fishing, boating
and family time.
Steven went through a tough year of chemotherapy and surgeries. Since
that last chemo treatment, he has been cancer free. He never acts like
a cancer victim. He is a proud survivor and has grown into a determined
young man. He graduated from high school in June 2014, and has plans
to pursue a career in the power and electrical fields.
Thank you so much for helping Steven!!!”
Carey – Steven’s Mom 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
13
Mark
M
ark Riffel is a cancer survivor who was once a wish
child and is now a regular donor to the Children’s
Wish Foundation. Mark and his wife Shelley
have made several major donations over the years to the
Saskatchewan Chapter of the organization. “I was given a
second chance,” he says, “and I don’t want to waste it.”
Mark was diagnosed with cancer as a 15-year old highschool
student. “I understood the severity of what I had,” he recalls,
“but looking back, I was too young to really understand what
it meant to die.”
The year was 1993. After his final chemotherapy treatment,
Mark made a wish for a car stereo.
“The stereo,” he says, “was like a
I was given a
trophy. I had cancer and I survived the
second chance
ordeal. It was really important to me.”
and I don’t want
to waste it.
Mark married his life partner in 2002,
the same year he bought the family
business from his father, and they are
now the proud parents of three children.
Mark’s life is full, yet he remains mindful of those who helped
him, and of the countless others who are engaged in the struggle
against the disease he once suffered from.
Four members of his extended family have died of cancer while
another three have undergone successful cancer treatments.
However, it is the plight of childhood cancer victims that moved
Mark to take action. “The Children’s Wish Foundation is a fabulous
organization,” he says. “I like to write them a cheque every year
before Christmas and I hope that I can do more in the future. The
wishes make an impact on the human spirit, on the individual life of a
child. That’s what’s important to me.” 
Barbara
D
(1973 – 1990)
iagnosed with terminal cancer, Barbara spent her 13th
birthday in the teen lounge of the pediatric ward at
University Hospital in Saskatoon. At a surprise birthday
party, two members of the Children’s Wish Foundation –
Saskatchewan Chapter, made one of Barbara’s most heartfelt
wishes come true.
That day, the Children's Wish Foundation presented Barabara
with her dream gift – a Commodore 64 computer system. The
teen had spent much time on a similar computer at school but
had never expected to have one of her own.
Barbara made short work of the wrapping paper. As she
unwrapped each component of the system it became clear to
everyone in the room that she was an expert computer user.
She was able to describe each component accurately and
openly expressed her eagerness to go home and set up the
new machine.
14
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WISH IT FORWARD
Later that same day, a hospital
administrative staff member
stopped by to wish Barbara a
happy birthday on behalf of all
the staff at University Hospital.
Barbara’s doctor also brought a
birthday greeting—she was well
enough to go home.
Those who loved
her might well have
drawn some comfort
too from the memory
of Barbara’s delighted
face on the day she
received her wish.
In the months that followed,
Barbara fought a courageous battle against the illness that took
her life four years later. Thanks to the generosity of so many
who dug deep for time, and money, some of Barbara’s struggle
was eased. Those who loved her might well have drawn some
comfort too from the memory of Barbara’s delighted face on the
day she received her wish. 
Branden
(Written in 2012)
“P
rior to a year ago, I didn’t know much about the Children’s
Wish Foundation, but that all changed in April of 2011. I
had been suffering from a persistent cough for about six
months and had been to several doctors. Finally, after a chest x-ray
and Echo Gram, I was admitted into the hospital for further tests. The
next three weeks were filled with various doctors, scans, blood work
and ultimately a biopsy. I Googled every symptom I had and read all the
information, and at that point I was preparing for the worst, but truly
hoping for the best.
The day I received the call from the
Oncologists office with the biopsy
results, was the most anxiety filled
day I have ever experienced. I was
trying to think optimistically but
something inside was telling me to
think negatively.
I honestly believe
that the distraction,
anticipation and the
planning of that one wish
was very instrumental in
helping me get through
the mental stress of the
‘not knowing’.
With tunnel vision and my life
flashing before my eyes, the doctor
looked straight at me and told me I
had Hodgkins Lymphoma. My head started to spin and my ears began
to ring. Even though I had a feeling it was cancer it still felt surreal. I
had done a lot of reading about Hodgkins, and I knew that if treated at
Stage 1 or 2 the odds of beating it were extremely high. I was stage 4,
my life was about to change.
During my second of eight rounds of adult chemotherapy, I was given
a brochure and application for the Children’s Wish Foundation. They
explained that because I had a life threatening illness, I was eligible to
apply for a wish, any wish. Up until that point, my mind was consumed
with the illness and the stress that went along with it so the thought of
making a wish was a welcome distraction.
The anticipation and planning of this wish truly helped with all the
anxieties and uncertainties that went along with the illness. In the
end, I finally decided on an audio recording system with a Macintosh
computer.
I honestly believe that the distraction, anticipation and the planning
of that one wish was very instrumental in helping me get through the
mental stress of the ‘not knowing’. The Children’s Wish Foundation
is TRULY a worthwhile cause. I would personally like to thank the
Foundation for the wish I received. Without all of you reading this story,
the Children’s Wish Foundation would not exist.” 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
15
Evan M.
S
ummers became a lot more fun for seven-year old Evan when
he received a brand new camper from the Children’s Wish
Foundation. “We usually use our grandpa’s camper, but I think
it’s time we got our own,” a delighted Evan said at the time. He was
soon looking forward to camping at his favourite lakes – Emma,
Christopher and Waskesiu – with his mom Colleen, dad John, and older
sisters Megan and Caitlin.
We usually use our
Evan, from Prince Albert, was born with a
rare nevus, or birthmark, covering most
grandpa’s camper,
of his torso. He had his first surgery
but
I think it’s time
in Edmonton when he was merely 18
we
got our own.
months of age. After twenty additional
surgeries, Evan’s birthmark was almost
65 percent removed but, due to his delicate skin and frequent stitches,
he was not able to take part in sports or play at recess with the other
kids. “I was always saying ‘no’ to him, so when he got the idea for a
camper, I’m glad we could say ‘yes,’” Colleen said.
Okeira
In fact, Evan’s wish was granted two years before he received the
camper, and, although he was not well enough then to take advantage
of it, the idea of his wish kept him going. “He seemed to heal a lot
faster, talking and dreaming about it,” Colleen said. “It’s amazing what
he goes through with a smile on his face.” At first, Evan had wished
for a trip to Hawaii, but that would have been impossible (intense sun
exposure on the nevus might have triggered the development of skin
cancer). “Unlike a trip, the camper is a gift that will keep on giving,”
John noted. 
O
keira spent the first fifteen months of her life in hospital when
she was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a neurological
disease which causes inflammation across the spinal cord.
Due to the inflammation in Okeira’s spinal cord, she is confined to a
wheelchair and has a tracheotomy to assist her breathing. But, none
of these things have stopped Okeira from
Okeira has shown us being a bright, energetic young lady.
what a good spirit
can accomplish.
“Okeira has shown us what a good spirit
can accomplish. She is truly a happy and
enthusiastic soul. She brings happiness,
joy and love to everyone she meets,” explained Okeira’s mom, Dayle.
Whether she is adventuring into the water in summertime, painting with
the use of her nose, holding the paint brush in her teeth, or spending
time playing with other kids with similar disabilities, Okeira is always
up for adventure. Her sisters, along with her mom, play a large role
in Okeira’s life, helping her experience and participate in as many
activities as she can with them.
When it came time to choose her wish, Okeira chose to visit Disney
World with her family! Meeting all of her favourite Disney characters
and princesses was a wonderful part of this adventure but, for Okeira,
the best part of her trip was being able to share more great quality
time with her family. 
16
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WISH IT FORWARD
Braden
I
t was only days before his fifth birthday,
while at the lake, that Braden’s family
received the news that their little boy had
a tumour. Although it would be removed,
they were still unsure as to what exactly it
was. Two weeks after the dreaded phone
call, Braden went in for six hours of surgery.
Just days later the news came that he had
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, a rare blood
disease in which used white blood cells eat
away at bone rather than be discarded by the
body. Their journey had just begun.
Braden spent much of the following year in
hospital. He underwent a second operation
late in the year when doctors discovered the
Histiocytosis had spread to his jaw,
followed by one more surgery and
A dream come
six months of chemotherapy.
true, the wish was
With two other young children at
a way for us to say
home, Tammy and Kevin had to
'WE MADE IT!!'
stay strong. Although the kids
knew their brother was sick, the
severity of the illness was not discussed. It was not until he
was granted a wish with the Children’s Wish Foundation in
July of 2013 that Tammy and Kevin sat their little boy down
to explain what he had been through and just how dangerous
his illness had been.
A hockey fanatic, Braden’s wish was to skate with his idol,
Braden Holtby of the Washington Capitals. When Holtby was
a Saskatoon Blade, the Braden’s met for the first time and
became friends.
In early January of 2014, Braden’s wish came true. He
spent a weekend in Washington skating with his hero
and mingling with Alexander Ovechkin and the rest of the
Capitals! A dream come true, the wish “was a way for us to
say 'WE MADE IT!!' (It) made us remember back to those
days when Braden was “different” and (see now) how he is
smiling, laughing and being a typical boy, (when) at that time, we were
unsure if he (ever) would be again.” 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
17
Justin
“I
t has been 15 years since I was sitting in that window seat in
my pediatrics hospital room in Regina, as my then twelve-yearold self was in the midst of a heavy dose of chemotherapy. It
was a cold fall day but inside that room was excitement. We had
been contacted by the Wish Foundation stating that they would
grant me my wish.
The only thing I could look forward to more than anything else was
going camping with my family as I had done since I was young boy, so
I had asked for a camper. The arrangements had been made and we
picked up the trailer in dead-winter of early 1999 in Saskatoon. The
foundation had gone above and beyond what I could have ever asked
for with a brand new Coleman Tent Trailer. When it came for the license
plate, I could think of only one suitable custom plate: “WISH”.
When it came for
the license plate, I
could think of only
one suitable custom
plate: 'WISH'.
Shemuel
We brought it home and set it up in the family shop on the farm for the
first campout. Since then I have spent countless nights in the trailer—
whether it was set up in the backyard or at a campsite on one of the
many trips it has made over the last 15 years. And every spring when
I clean it up for the summer of camping ahead I remember how far I
have come since my illness—a 12 year old boy to a now 27 year old
man. I think about how amazing it was, how exciting it was, to receive
that gift. It gave me and my family something to be joyful about in the
turmoil of the chemotherapy.
My mother has recently joined the wish foundation chapter in our area
to give back to those who gave to us and could not be more proud
that our family is involved in this organization. I am truly thankful
for everything the Wish Foundation did for us and continues to do
for families in need of much-needed encouragement. I cannot say it
enough, thank you.” 
W
hen Shemuel was diagnosed with Leukemia, his parents
Sigrid and Lance took those words to heart. Already
familiar with the health benefits of organic vegetables,
the family researched other ways nutrition could aid in
Shemuel’s treatment. The family decided that, as well as buying
organic food, they would also like to produce their own food.
Like many Saskatchewan gardeners, Shemuel wished he could
beat winter and garden all year long. The Children’s Wish
Foundation was able to grant his wish, providing him with a
27-foot gardening dome. The dome can sustain plants year
round using nothing more than solar power.
Lance, Shemuel’s father, was ecstatic that his son’s wish
was granted. Eating food they’ve grown themselves has had
a positive effect on the whole family’s health, but benefits
have gone even further than that for Shemuel. Gardening gave him a
passion he could throw himself in to, and offered some respite from
hospitals, treatments and doctors. “He finds it therapeutic to put
his fingers in the dirt,” his dad said. “It’s a delight for him to watch
(plants) pop out of the soil. It’s a great thing for him.” 
18
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WISH IT FORWARD
Eating food
they’ve grown
themselves has
had a positive
effect on the
whole family’s
health, but
benefits have
gone even further than
that for Shemuel.
Cody + Zander
T
he importance of letting “kids be kids” is the precious souvenir
that parents Denise and Kevin brought home from the wish cruise
they enjoyed with their family. “The holiday taught us that we
were keeping the boys too close to home and that it was time to
let them be kids.”
Denise and husband Kevin have an extraordinary
reason for being such watchful parents to Cody
and Zander. Both boys live with an inherited heart
condition called Catecholaminergic Polymorphic
Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT). The condition results
in ventricular rhythm patterns that can cause
fainting and sudden dealth if left untreated in the
first five minutes of an event. Kevin has the same
heart condition.
“We don’t go anywhere without our defibrillation
machine,” said Denise. Yet during Cody’s wish – a
Disney Cruise, granted by the Children’s Wish
Foundation of Canada – mom and dad enjoyed
some time alone while their sons played in
onboard clubs. “It was as good for us as it was
for the boys to have time away from one another.
The cruise also allowed our family to slow down
because we are always rushing off to doctor’s
appointments for either Kevin or the boys.”
A year after Cody had his wish, his little brother
Zander saw his special wish fulfilled. He also
chose a cruise but instead of Disney, he opted
for the Norwegian Cruise Lines with its unique
cast of characters. “Both cruises were wonderful
for the boys, for all of us,” said Denise. “Our
family was able to gain
of 2011, Cody some much-needed
independence.”
As of the spring
was allowed to play sports
after school … He loves it but if
we had not done these cruises
we would never have let him go
and try out for the teams.
Until the cruises, neither
boy had been allowed to
play at friends’ houses
because Denise felt so
fearful of a sudden tragedy
for which another family
might feel responsible. “I’ve learned to trust my boys. They both tell
me “I know, I know” and I believe they do know their limitations.” As
of the spring of 2011, Cody was allowed to play sports after school:
badminton, volleyball, curling. “He loves it but if we had not done these
cruises we would never have let him go and try out for the teams.”
As Denise said, “Kevin and I have come to see that our challenges are
manageable. It’s the hand that we were dealt. It is what it is.” 
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
|
19
Sean
A
mother’s heart…
Sean was diagnosed with very high risk Acute Lymphoblastic
Leukemia on September 19th, 2012 at the age of 17.
There is no possible way to prepare for this kind of news. How
could my son, this vibrant, healthy, active young man with his
whole life ahead of him possibly have cancer? And what did that
mean anyway? Sean was immediately admitted to the hospital and
his journey began. Round after round of chemotherapy, blood and
platelet transfusions, lumbar punctures, bone marrow biopsies, IV
after IV and pills, pills and more pills, became his routine. Constant
nausea and vomiting from the treatments, extreme fatigue and
weakness became his new “normal.” His home away from home
became the hospital and his extended family all wore stethoscopes.
But through all this, not once did this brave young man utter a
complaint. His new motto became “it is what it is – it sucks but you
just deal with it.”
Having always been an only child of a single parent, Sean was used
to spending a few hours home alone as a teenager but now, he had to
spend most of his days alone sick at home, or in the hospital, while
I went to work. My heart broke each and every single time I had to
leave him, but taking my queues from Sean, I pasted that smile on my
face, raised my chin up and continued on with determination to endure
with as much grace and humility as I could muster. As well as my
greatest success in life, Sean had also become my teacher.
Thanks to his fabulous teachers and the hospital staff who continued
to support and believe in him it was with great pride, a beautiful bald
head and a huge grin on his face, that Sean strolled across the stage
at graduation to receive his Grade 12 Diploma and Student Merit
Award. While most 18 year olds want to get out into the world on their
own and experience life, with still over two years of chemo to go, Sean
knew that his turn would have to wait while he continued to fight and
hope for a cure.
I have come to understand what a truly exceptional person my son
is. Although it was and still is unbearable to watch helplessly as a
parent, I cannot envision the inner struggles he has endured so far
or what he has suffered in silence. This experience has taken him
through processes and ordeals that we could not have imagined and
yet he remains the most sincere, kind, forgiving, compassionate, wise,
and humble young man with such a wonderful sense of the world
and incredible inner strength. He does not let this disease defeat nor
define him. He is, in all respects, my hero.
There are obstacles and situations that you come across in life
that cause you to wonder how you could ever make it through. An
unassuming young man has shown me how it is done… You look
straight ahead and just go... with the occasional glance back to
appreciate how far you’ve already come!
May you all enjoy the forward motion of your lives. Hug a little longer,
love more sincerely, be kinder to each other, believe in the goodness of
life and keep the faith.
With gratitude and continuing hope,
Sean’s mom,
Lori 
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WISH IT FORWARD
Hug a little longer, love more
sincerely, be kinder to each
other, believe in the goodness
of life and keep the faith.
The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada is the only all Canadian
wish granting organization. With over 30 years of experience and over
20,000 wishes behind us, we have fulfilled more wishes for Canadian
children coping with life-threatening illnesses than any other wish
granting agency.
We are extremely proud that we have never denied an eligible child a
wish and that we have been able to fulfill some of the most complex
wishes imaginable! A wish is only limited by a child’s imagination, as
long as it won’t jeopardize their health or safety.
Whatever the wish, we are committed to ensuring that each and every
wish child realizes their dream.
For more information, or to donate, please visit www.childrenswish.ca
or call 1-800-267-9474 (wish).
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
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N A ARON AARON AARON ABBY ABIGA IL A BI G A I L AC AC I A AC AC I A A DA M A DA M A D D IS O N A ID
CIA AL ICIA ALLYSO N A LY NNA ALY S S A ALYS S A A LYS S A A MA NDA A MA NDA A MA N DA A M A N DA A
DR E W AND REW AN GE L A NGE L A ANGE L A A NG ELE A NI TA A NNA A NNA A NNA A N S O N A N TH O N Y
N AU S TIN AUSTIN AUS TIN AUS TIN AVA AVERY BA I LEY BA I LEY BA R BA R A BA R TO N B EL IN DA B
DEN B RADEN BRADIN BRA DL E Y BRA DY BR A DY BR A DY BR A I DEN BR A NDEN BR A N D I B RA N D I B
NDO N BRANDY B RAX TON BRAY DON BRAYTON BR ENDON BR ENNA BR ENNA N BR EN N A N B REN N A
NY B R ITTANY BRITTA NY BRITTA NY BROO KE BROOKE C A DENC E C A I T LI N C A LEB CA L EB CA M ER
Y CARSON CARTER CA RTE R CA S E Y CA S EY C A S S A NDR A C A S S A NDR A C A S S I DY CATL IN CAY D EN
ES CH ARLY CHASE CHE L S E A CHE L SE A C H ELS EY C H ER I DA N C H ER I S E C H EVLIN CH RIS CH RIS
CIENNA CLARA CLARK CL INTON CODI C ODY C ODY C ODY C ODY C ODY C OH EN CO H Y N CO L B Y
OR C ONNOR C ONOR CONWAY COOPE R C OR BI N C OR T ENAY C ORY C OU R T NEY CO U RTN EY CO U R
ARI NA DAKOTA DAKOTA DA L L A S DA MA R I DA NA DA NA E DA NET T E DA NI C A DA NIEL DA N IEL DA N
D DAWN DAWSO N DE CL A N DE NNA L DENNI S DENNI S DENNI S DER EK DER EK D EREK D EREK
NIQU E DONNA D ONOVA N DONOVA N DUN C A N DU S T I N DU S T I N DU S T I N DU S T I N D U S TIN D U S TI
ICA ERIN ESTEFAN Y E STHE R E THAN E T H A N ET H A N ET H A N EU G ENE EVA N EVAN EVA N EVA N
RGE G E ORGIN A GILBE RT GL E NN GRAE ME G R A H A M G R A NT G R EER G R EG ORY G U IN EVERE H A
LEE H AYLEY HEATHER HIL L A RY HO HO LLY H OLLY H U DS ON H U NT ER H U NT ER IA N IL A RA IS A
JA DE N JADYN JAIDYN JAIME
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A P U B LJA
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I O N B- YLY N JA KOB JA MELLE S A JA
S K AT
C H E W A NJA
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A P T E R JA MES JA M ES JA N EL
NE JA SON JASO N JA S ON JAS ON JAS ON JA S ON JA S ON JA S ON JAVEN JAYC EE JAY D EN JAY L EN E
ER JE NNIFER JENNIF E R JE NNIF E R JE REMY
W W W. C H IJLER
D R E EMY
N S W I S H . CJAER EMY J ER RY J ES S E J ES S E JES S E JES S
AN JI L L IAN JIM MY J IMMY JITTO JOCE LYNW WJW.OEL
J OEL J OEL J OEL J OH N J OH N JO L A JO L EN E J
W I S H F W D. C A
DAN J ORDA N JO RDAN JORDAN JORDA N J OR DON J OR DON J OR DON J OS EP H J OS EP H JO S EY JO S
TIN J U STIN JUSTIN JUS TIN JUS TIN JUST I N KA DEI N KA I KA I T LYN KA I T LYN KAL EB K A L EN K A
K AT RINA KAYDEN KAY DE N KAY DE N KAYLA KAYLA KAYLI KEENA N KELLI E KEL LY K EL LY K EL
N K E VIN KEV IN KEV IN KE V IN KHY RA KI NG S TON KI R BY KI R KLA N KI R S T EN KODY KO L B JO RN K
E KYLE KYLEN KYLI E L A KE ISHIA L ANDI N LA NDON LA NDON LA NDON LA NELLE L A RIS S A L AU R
LE SLIE LEXI LEXIE L IBE RTY L ILY L INC OLN LI NDA LI NDEN LI NDS AY LI S A LO CK E L O G A N L O
KEN ZIE MADISO N MADISON MA DISON MA DI S ON MA DYS ON MA R A NDA MA R C U S M A RIA M A RI
N MASON MATEO M ATHE W MATHE W MAT I LDA MAT T H EW MAT T H EW MAT T H EW M ATTH EW M ATT
LINDA MELISSA MEL IS S A ME L IS S A ME LI S S A MELI S S A MEMP H I S MEMP H I S M IA LY N N M ICA H
ELLE MIKAYLA MIR A NDA MIRIAM MIST Y MI T C H ELL MI T C H ELL MOR G YN MOS ES M U S QUA M Y
HAN NATH AN IAL N ATHE N NE L SON NE L SON NI A NI C H OLA S NI C H OLA S NI C H OLA S N ICH O L A S N
OW EN OWEN OWEN PAIGE PAIGE PAIGE PAT R I C K PAT R I C K PAT R I C K PAT R I C K PATRICK PAU L
AYLE NE RAYNA RAZ VAN RE ID RE YCE RHET T R I A NA R I C H A R D R I C H A R D R I C K RICK Y RIK K I R
RTO ROBIN RO BYN RODNE Y ROMAN RO NA LD ROT EM ROXA NNE RU EBEN RU S S EL L RYA N RYA
EL S A MU EL SAMUEL S A MUE L S A NDRA S A R A S A R A S A R A S A R A S A R A H S A R A H S A RA H S A R
NE SH ANELLE SHAN NE L L SHANTE L S HANT ELLE S H AU N S H AU N S H AU NA S H A WN S H AY L EN D S H
SKY LAR SOLOMO N SONTONA S P E NCE R S P ENC ER S P ENC ER S TAC EY S TAC Y STA N L EY S TEFA N
WAR T STUART STUART SUMME R S USA N S U S A N S U S A NA S U S A NNA TA LI A TA MM Y TA M M Y TA N
OR TAYLOR TAYLOR TAY L OR TAY L OR TAY LOR TAYLOR T EAG A N T EG A N T EI G T ENE A L E TERREL L T
VIS T R EVOR TR EVOR TRE VOR TRE Y TRIS TA N T R I S TA N T R I S T I N T RON T Y T YE T YE TY IE TY L EN
NES SA VANESSA V ICTOR V ICTORIA V ICTO R I A VI NC ENT VI OLET VI R G I NI A WA DE W A D E W ES L EY
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WISH IT FORWARD