California Dreaming Becomes Reality for Cancer Survivor
LAYTON, Utah (April 2023): Asiel found out that his wish was coming true during a scavenger hunt at school with clues hidden all around the classroom. His family was also there to share in his special moment when Asiel discovered that Kids Wish Network was sending his family to California. His wish was an amazing getaway planned around all of his favorite things.
Kids Wish Network flew Asiel’s family to Anaheim. Their first night was extravagant staying at the swanky Kimpton Everly Hollywood. The hotel generously provided his family with accommodations and a memorable stay on the 16th floor with stunning views of Hollywood’s iconic landscape. They also learned about his interests ahead of time, and gifted Asiel with a LEGO set, Nintendo Super Mario Yoshi plush, and custom pizza artfully decorated with pepperonis to look like Mario’s face. Because of the thoughtful surprise, his family was able to save the Domino’s gift cards provided by Kids Wish Network for another time. Asiel’s fun continued at Universal Studios Hollywood, experiencing all the rides, shows, and even newly opened Super Nintendo World. The innovative attractions were a big win for Asiel leveling up his fun. The family’s passes were courtesy of Universal.
The following day they packed their bags and headed to Carlsbad for a vibrant adventure. Kids Wish Network provided them with a stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel! The location was just steps away from LEGOLAND’s theme park that they’d be visiting the next day. While it was hard to wait, they enjoyed every moment at the amazing resort, and later dinner at Miguel’s Cocina with meals courtesy of the restaurant. Asiel was so excited for what was yet to come, and went to bed knowing that his LEGOLAND adventure was only hours away.
The morning was filled with anticipation, and it was finally time to explore all of LEGOLAND’s theme park brick by brick. Asiel’s family experienced its colorful rides, shows and awe-inspiring LEGO sculptures. It was all so amazing. After their incredible day, they enjoyed dinner at Ruby’s Diner who served up nostalgic comfort food and memorable family moments. Meals were provided by the restaurant.
On the last day of Asiel’s wish trip, his family celebrated every available minute of fun. They created even more memories at Disneyland before their flight home to Utah.
Before a lump appeared on Asiel’s neck, nobody would have suspected he had cancer. So it was particularly shocking to find out he actually had stage IV neuroblastoma. Treatments included chemotherapy, high dose chemotherapy with a stem cell transplant, radiation and immunotherapy. Asiel experienced partial hearing loss after his second round of chemo, and now uses hearing aids. He receives scans every 6 months to monitor his health.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Asiel without the help of Universal Studio Hollywood, Merlin’s Magic Wand, The Kimpton Everly Hollywood, Ruby’s Diner, and Miguel’s Cocina, 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.