During the period when Carson’s emotions were at his lowest point after being diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, we decided to move forward with an organization called Make-A-Wish. It was something that could tangibly give us hope as the boys waded through their new life with daily airway clearance therapy, medications and frequent doctor appointments. Our doctor along with another CF family told us about it and frankly, my hope was that Make-A-Wish would help pull Carson out of his depression.
In February, 2014 we began the process of each of our boys receiving a wish granted. Some amazing volunteers with the organization came to our house that winter and spent time getting to know each member of our family. The kids were watching intently out the window waiting for them to arrive. And when an unfamiliar truck parked in front of our house there were shouts and cheers, "They're here!" The kids watched as the volunteers walked up the sidewalk with armfuls of brightly colored presents; the anticipation was like a balloon waiting to pop!
Mike and Holly were their names. And it was their job to figure out what the boys’ dream come true might be. It was such a fun night watching them brainstorm and daydream about the possibilities. Anders came up with something that included having a dolphin for a pet.
And Carson new exactly what he wanted: to have his very own fishing boat.
Everyone was all smiles and filled with hope that evening.
But what I appreciated most about our time with Mike and Holly that night was the way they paid attention to our daughter Ella. They loved on her just as much as the boys. She was interviewed just like they were. And she received several thoughtful gifts along with her brothers. Life had been so intense and the focus was SO much on the boys that often times Ella felt left out.
Make-A-Wish recognizes that disease affects the entire family; not just the person WITH the illness. And it blessed me so much to see my daughter feeling important that night. Make-A-Wish gave our entire family a reason to smile and look forward to the future.
