Surprise Surprise for Cancer Patient and Hero

BOURBON, Mo. (September 2021): Schoolmates Claire and Jesse have a tight bond, and their friendship became even more meaningful after Claire’s cancer diagnosis. Jesse was always there for her throughout her cancer struggles cheering her up, helping her at school, and demonstrating his kindness in the most amazing way. At only 8 years old, he auctioned off his fair market hog that he raised on his family’s farm. With the help of their caring community, it sold for over $19,000, which Jesse donated for Claire’s cancer treatments. It was an extraordinary heartfelt gesture. 

Kids Wish Network had surprises for both Claire AND Jesse!

Claire was getting a Gorilla playset! It was loaded with lots of outdoor fun for sliding, swinging, climbing, and hanging out on the play deck. Kids Wish Network also added an ADA swing to make her feel extra safe while swinging into moments of carefree bliss. Claire now has her own happy place to escape to. It’s a comforting haven far away from the stresses of her battle with cancer, and it’s right in her own backyard.

Jesse’s heroic kindness was also celebrated. Kids Wish Network honored him with a Hero award that included a generous retail gift card and Hero gifts. Claire helped to make it even more meaningful, revealing the exciting news to her best friend who was so surprised. It was a very special day for these besties. 

Before Claire’s diagnosis, she started having difficulties with coordination and was falling a lot. The right side of her face also began to droop. Claire was hospitalized for over a week. She underwent several biopsies and MRIs which revealed the unthinkable. Claire had a massive brain tumor. She was diagnosed with diffused midline glioma, a potentially terminal brain cancer. She’s been through 30 rounds of radiation, and continues to take part in a clinical trial. 

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Claire without the help of PlayNation Play Systems who graciously provided the Gorilla playground at a discounted rate, 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.