Wish Siblings No Longer Just California Dreamin’
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. (August 2023): Siblings Oakley and Avery have been through so much with their illnesses, and were in need of something special to look forward to. Kids Wish Network made their double wish come true purchasing their family generous Disney gift cards that they could use for park tickets, dining, souvenirs, and more, Pack & Go gift cards for travel by air, the road, as well as accommodations. They also received passes to Universal Studios Hollywood, courtesy of the theme park. Oakley and Avery were so happy to celebrate their wishes together, their California theme park adventure was double the thrills.
Oakley and Avery received their wish trip gift packages last year, and their family decided to hold off until it was the right time for them to travel. That time came, and it was even more than they anticipated. They experienced Universal and Disneyland, and also took time to visit Hollywood, a place that Oakley and Avery have begged to go to for many years.
“It was fantastic!” said their mom Danielle. “We absolutely got a maxed trip from their wish, and they have been so good and grateful for all of this. We even got to see some of my family that live next door to the parks which just added to this amazing trip. Thank you all so very much!”
At 15 weeks of pregnancy, an ultrasound revealed that Oakley had a hole in his spine, also called myelomeningocele. A fetal surgery was performed, 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 and jaundice, and was put on a ventilator. 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.
Avery was born with breathing difficulties. He also had growth issues. At 12 months old, he was only 12 pounds due to a growth hormone deficiency affecting his pituitary gland. More testing revealed he also had Chiari malformation, and he underwent brain surgery and an additional operation to repair his spine. Avery later came down with meningitis that left him fatigued and needing a feeding tube. Over time he’s been able to work his way up to eating solid foods again. Avery continues to work hard in physical, speech and occupational therapies.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Oakley and Avery 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.
Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.
If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.