PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (December 2023): Kids Wish Network made Gavin’s dream come true, and his reality was even better than what he imagined for his getaway to paradise. “The water was green, blue and clear, it was really beautiful,” he shared describing the ocean in Panama City Beach. The sugar white sand, jewel toned ocean, and swaying palm trees felt so far away from all the medical stresses he had endured back home in Texas.

Kids Wish Network flew his family to Florida for his once-in-a-lifetime wish trip. His beach getaway fully immersed him in the salt life that he dreamed so much about. His family stayed at the Shores of Panama Beach Resort, in a three-bedroom gulf front condo on the 12th floor with sweeping views of the postcard perfect destination. His stay was generously provided by the resort.

“My favorite memory was on the first day when we were able to be on the beach,” said his mom Macy. “We were all together, and it was so nice. The trip was much-needed family time for us.”

They also enjoyed a taste of island life with coastal dining experiences at The Back Porch who Gavin said had one of the best burgers he’s ever had, Sharky’s Beachfront Resort, FINNS Island Style Grub, The Wicked Wheel, and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. The family’s meals were courtesy of the restaurants. They were also invited by Capt Zach’s Adventures to come aboard their boat and sightsee from a mariner’s perspective, and see the area’s abundant dolphins.   

“The wish was a Gavin celebration. His birthday, his wellness… it was very special,” shared his mom as meaningful memories bubbled up happy tears. “Thank you so much. We made invaluable memories, and it was nice to pause our life and enjoy this time together as a family.”  

Before Gavin’s diagnosis, he began having migraines that would last for days. During this time, he was also diagnosed with strep throat. Testing didn’t show anything unusual, but in the next few weeks he rapidly lost weight and had a fainting spell. He was rushed to the ER, and further testing revealed a large brain abscess brought on by the strep passing through his brain’s barrier, the reason for his brain swelling and skull defect. Gavin underwent an emergency surgery having half of his skull removed. He needed to wear a protective helmet for several months, and had another operation to reattach his skull.

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Gavin without the help of Shores of Panama Beach Resort, Capt. Zach’s Adventures, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, FINNS Island Style Grub, The Wicked Wheel, The Back Porch, Sharky’s Beachfront Resort, 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.