BROOKLYN, N.Y. (October 2021): Before April’s passing from cancer, she shared her vibrant appreciation for her family centered wish that made her last days more precious than she could have ever imagined. She was reunited with cherished loved ones who were her faithful source of comfort and support. While she carried them in her heart, they were separated by over 1500 miles.

Kids Wish Network made her dream come true, surprising April and her family on a live video call. April and her mom couldn’t believe what was dangling from the purple Jansport backpack they just sent her. “Oh God… April!” her mom Irina exclaimed in disbelief. April saw the first Delta gift card and also blurted out her amazement, not realizing there were two more! She gushed with emotion as her eyes flooded with tears. “I’m so happy,” she shared with Kids Wish Network’s Wish Department Manager Tambra Fulk. April reassured her they were joyful tears. “I wanna hug you so much!” And they did, exchanging virtual hugs on their computer screens. 

It was perfect timing. After several hospitalizations and chemo treatments to fight the aggressive sarcoma, she felt isolated and lonely, severely missing the connections she once had with classmates and friends. She also went through a lot of physical changes. The treatments made her lethargic, and she lost all of her hair. April’s fun was experimenting with makeup, and NARS Cosmetics in Soho helped make her wish extra special, gifting her a box filled with their luxe cosmetics.  

April’s trip gave her something special to look forward to during her very difficult time. Her tumors kept growing, and she needed additional radiation treatments causing her first trip date to be disappointingly postponed. The excitement of her anticipated getaway stayed with her, and weeks later she was so over the moon to be traveling. 

When her family arrived at the airport, April was warmly welcomed by Delta staff with signs, colorful balloons, flowers and extra love from the TSA dogs. She also had photos taken with her flight’s pilot, flight attendants and even more Delta staff. The festive send-off made April feel like a celebrity, she was glowing with happiness. “I thought I was famous!” she told Kids Wish Network.

Her meaningful trip was full of laughter, hugs, and lots of love. She also enjoyed time at the beach and experiencing all the things she dreamed of. Every moment was precious for April and her family. 

Shortly after returning home, April lost her battle with cancer. Kids Wish Network continued to be there for her family in their time of need with its A Child Forever funeral assistance, a program that helps Kids Wish Network families with end of life expenses of passing Wish Kids. Dealing with April’s devastating loss is ongoing for her family, and Kids Wish Network also honored her siblings as Heroes of the Month, a special program that awards brave children facing challenging and life-altering situations. We’re so grateful we could grant April her meaningful wish, giving her precious moments with loved ones, and last days lived to their fullest.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to April without the help of NARS Cosmetics (Soho, NY), Delta airlines for their gracious hospitality, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.  

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. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs or refer a child now.