FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. (January 2024): Xander got a taste of the salty life on his wish trip to the Florida Keys, basking in the paradise’s sun, sand, turquoise waters and palm trees. The postcardesque surroundings felt like a world away from the Kentucky snow back home.  

Kids Wish Network made his dream come true, flying his family to Florida for his adventurous getaway to the captivating chain of tropical islands. Xander experienced so many firsts like parasailing, reef snorkeling, jet skiing, a thrilling banana boat ride, and more with his family’s Ultimate Adventure H2.0 excursion courtesy of Fury Water Adventures Key West. Sometimes it’s the random carefree moments that have a lasting impact. He and his mom fondly recalled jumping off the boat together and plunging into the water for their snorkeling session. “We popped up out of the water and just looked at each other and started laughing,” said his mom Rachel. “I will remember that moment forever.”

He also had an inshore fishing adventure with Live Action Sports who provided his family’s memorable outing. Xander’s most impressive catch and release was a massive shark, earning him major bragging rights. Captain Jagger went above and beyond, making their time on the water all about Xander.

This major seafood lover indulged in lobster, crab, and other favorites at restaurants specifically chosen for his preferences. Xander also got to try conch chowder for the first time. His wish included memorable meals at The Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant (Key Largo), The Green Turtle Inn (Islamorada), and Buzzards Roost (Key Largo). His family’s meals were kindly donated by the restaurants. Key Largo Fisheries (Key Largo) also provided his family with a gift certificate.

Staying in multiple resorts enabled Xander’s family to explore more areas and have a variety of island experiences. Tropical accommodations further immersed his family in island life, and were generously provided by Bayside Inn Key Largo, The Hadley House Resort in Islamorada, and Courtyard by Marriot Key West Waterfront.

Xander was extremely active and athletic before his symptoms developed. His condition was first thought to be an infection, but further testing revealed he had a solid cancerous mass in his lung. He was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, and underwent 14 rounds of chemo and 11 rounds of radiation. He aspires to be a geneticist to help cure diseases.

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Xander without the help of Courtyard by Marriot Key West Waterfront, Bayside Inn Key Largo, Fury Water Adventures Key West, The Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant, Key Largo Fisheries, The Hadley House Resort, Live Action Sports, The Green Turtle Inn, Buzzards Roost, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.  

Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs. Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.

Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.

If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.