Wish Kid is No Longer Just California Dreamin’

PORT ORCHARD, Wash. (May 2022): Oakley has been through so much with his health and was in need of something special to look forward to. He dreamed of going to Disneyland, and his wish coming true is making it possible. Kids Wish Network provided his family with generous Disney gift cards that they can use for park tickets, dining, souvenirs, and more; a Pack & Go gift card they can utilize for travel by air, the road, as well as accommodations. They’re also receiving tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood, courtesy of the theme park. Oakley and his brother Avery are actually celebrating their wishes together, making their California adventure extra meaningful.

At 15 weeks of pregnancy, an ultrasound revealed that Oakley had a hole in his spine, also called myelomeningocele, a birth defect where the spinal cord and the spinal canal do not form or close properly. Fetal surgery was performed to close the thecal sac, but it ruptured at 30 weeks, and spinal fluid seeped into Oakley’s brain. A C-section was performed at 37 weeks, and he was put on a respirator. Another surgery was necessary to fuse his spine; however, he then experienced respiratory failures, jaundice, and the need for a ventilator. At two weeks old, he contracted meningitis. Oakley has also undergone procedures for a tethered spinal cord, hydrocephalus, and a variety of other conditions. It’s been a difficult journey for him, both physically and mentally. He’s had more than 20 surgeries.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Oakley without the help of Universal Studios Hollywood 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.