Kaden Appreciative of Fun-Filled Road Trip

LUBBOCK, Texas (January 2021): One of Kaden’s favorite pastimes is fishing, and he thought he was heading over to Academy Sports + Outdoors to shop for gear like so many times before. When he and his family arrived, he had a big surprise. Store director Tori Apel was in on it, and excited to share the big news, “Kids Wish Network is making your dream come true!” Kaden has been wanting to up his angling skills and have a fishing adventure, so Kids Wish Network gave him an Airbnb gift card and Shell gift card for a fun-filled road trip to the destination of his choice. In addition to presenting Kaden’s amazing news, Academy Sports + Outdoors also had their own special gift for him, giving Kaden generous store gift cards to ensure he has everything he needs to catch the big one. Sugarista bakery sweetly enhanced the reveal, providing whimsical cookies artistically designed in a fun fish theme. Kaden is so appreciative of his wish and looking forward to casting on new waters. 

Kaden was born with aortic stenosis, and years later his thickened valve put his body into crisis. He was airlifted to a hospital in another city and underwent surgery to replace his aortic valve. He’ll likely need to have it replaced again in the future.  

“We’re so glad we could give Kaden the opportunity to share special time with his family doing what he loves most,” said his Wish Coordinator Kim Kreiner.  

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Kaden without the help of Academy Sports + Outdoors, their Regional Marketing Director Ashley Razo, Sugarista, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.  

Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about the 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.