I wish to swim with dolphins in Hawaii

Deydalie

8

leukemia

Deydalie and her family feed the dolphins.

Deydalie swims with dolphins for an unforgettable family adventure

After Deydalie graduated kindergarten, what started as a time of celebration turned to family concerns when Deydalie began to experience excruciating knee pain.

Deydalie’s mom, Rosa, pleaded with the doctors for answers, knowing something was wrong with her daughter. Her intuition was correct. Deydalie, at just six years old, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

It was a day that changed everything for Deydalie and her family, marking the beginning of a challenging journey filled with pain, fear, and uncertainty.

Deydalie began chemotherapy immediately, enduring two rounds of treatment in a matter of 20 days. The physical toll was immense; Deydalie was constantly getting infections, causing fevers, pain, and fatigue.  

“Deydalie couldn’t even study for an hour for school because she was so sick,” said her mom, Rosa. "She faced each day with quiet strength, even as she lost her hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows to the chemo treatment."

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Deydalie's spirit remained unbroken.

Rosa

Deydalie's mom

A year into her battle, hope arrived in an unexpected form.

Deydalie's oncologist mentioned Make-A-Wish Arizona and she knew immediately that she wanted to go to Hawaii. Inspired by a trip her parents had taken, she longed to swim with dolphins and feel the warm embrace of the ocean. It was a wish that symbolized freedom and joy. 

Her wish came true after ringing the bell to celebrate the end of her chemotherapy months before and entering remission. The trip was a family affair, with her parents, her 10-year-old brother, 13-year-old sister, and one-year-old baby sister joining her.

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Deydalie was not a cancer patient for one magical week but a carefree child. She donned a different bikini each day, her inner diva shining brightly. Swimming with the dolphins was a highlight, the pure delight on her face, a sight that Rosa would never forget. Even the rainy days did not stop Deydalie from experiencing Jurassic World film locations.

It was a time of healing and happiness, a precious respite from the battles they had fought. 

Since that transformative trip, Deydalie has blossomed. Now, in fourth grade, she’s improved significantly in her schoolwork, which is evident in her academic progress. This summer, she is looking forward to attending Rainbow Camp in Williams, AZ., a special camp where she will meet other children who have faced similar battles. 

Deydalie's journey is far from over, but the worst is behind her. The trip to Hawaii was more than just a wish; it was a beacon of hope and a reminder of life's joy. For Rosa, watching her daughter smile and laugh was a gift beyond measure.  

“Deydalie was so strong and never cried. She went through so much, and I am glad that she was able to experience her wish come true.”  

Her journey continues, marked by hope and the promise of what's possible. 

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