Name: Trisha
Age: 14
State: WI

15-year-old Trisha has faced more in her young life than many people have in a lifetime. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, bone cancer, in April of 2004. Trisha’s cancer had manifested in one of her legs, and unfortunately, doctors were forced to amputate. Since her diagnosis, Trisha has endured aggressive chemotherapy treatments and has been in and out of the hospital.

After all that she’s been through, this brave girl was definitely ready for a break. Trisha’s special trip to Hawaii was a perfect way to rejuvenate! On her exciting trip to beautiful Honolulu, Trisha went sailing on a catamaran, took an underwater tour of the island in a submarine, visited the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, enjoyed her very first luau and swam in the sparkling Pacific. It was truly an experience she will cherish forever!

Name: Patrick
Age: 13
State: OH

14-year-old Patrick suffers from cystic fibrosis. C.F. is a chronic lung disease that causes the lungs to be covered with thick, heavy mucus and which interferes with a child’s breathing. It can often lead to very serous lung infections. Patrick must take daily medications and also must endure frequent breathing treatments. In addition to a visit to the Waikiki Aquarium, Patrick enjoyed a tour of the Bishop Museum, Hawaii’s Museum of Cultural and Natural History. Another busy day included an exciting underwater tour of the island in a submarine. Patrick also got up close and personal with the dolphins at Dolphin Quest. Later, Patrick took a special and touching tour of the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor where he got to meet several survivors of the 1941 attack. It was definitely an adventure to remember for Patrick.

Name: Hunter
Age: 13
State: DC

Hunter was born with Hemophilia A. This is a very serious bleeding disorder caused by a genetic mutation. People suffering with this condition bleed very easily and often from very minor injuries. It can be extremely serious as the bleeding occurs into the joints and muscles. Hunter has had exceptionally severe bleeding episodes which require him to endure IV treatments. Hunter bleeds most often in his legs and when this happens, he is ordered to bed rest to ensure that he doesn’t develop clots. He has been in and out of the hospital much of his young life and experiences mobility issues.

While on the island, Hunter and his family enjoyed activities that ranged from whale watching to snorkeling. They even got to attend an authentic Hawaiian luau!

To celebrate his 14th birthday, Kids Wish Network arranged for Hunter to receive personal surfing lessons and have a celebration dinner at Atlantis Seafood and Steak. “Hunter got to hold a real lobster. What better way to spend his birthday. It doesn’t get much better than this and this is something he will never forget!” Hunter’s mom said.

Now at home, the family is getting back to the “daily grind” but the trip isn’t far from their minds. “It was great to have a family vacation with just my immediate family,” Hunter’s mom said. “The trip was amazing and everyone had a great time!”

Name: Avery
Age: 7
State: GA

Avery has mitochondrial myopathy, a disease that saps him of his energy and muscle strength. There is no real treatment and no cure for his condition, which puts him at risk for damage to his internal organs. Avery uses a wheelchair when he travels long distances, and he uses oxygen at night as he sleeps.

For his wish, Avery wanted to have some real fun in Hawaii with his family. When he got there, Avery was treated like a celebrity and he loved every second. In true Hawaiian style, Avery enjoyed a real surfing lesson and even did a handstand on the surf board! He also got to swim with dolphins and visit an aquarium!