What started as a football injury, ultimately led to a life-changing diagnosis for Elieser. 

After breaking his clavicle during a football game, Eliser went to the doctor to have it checked. During that visit, doctors discovered pneumonia and noticed enlarged lymph nodes. Additional scans revealed an unexpected and serious diagnosis: cancer.

"As soon as we got to the hospital, they admitted him the same day," recalled his mother, Marlina. "We spent about a week in the hospital and they started chemotherapy within three days." 

The diagnosis was devastating for the family. While Marlina struggled to process the news, Elieser's response reflected a strength beyond his years. "I was the one who broke down because that's my baby," she said. "But he was like, 'Mom, I got this.'"

Over the next six months, Elieser endured chemotherapy and all the physical challenges that came with it. The treatment took a toll on his body. "He was sleeping a lot. He was always sick. He had no energy, but he was still fighting," Marlina said. 

Through it all, Elieser remained focused on his goals. Despite the hardships he faced, he graduated from high school a year early. When it came time to choose a wish, Elieser wished for something that would help him feel more confident every day: braces. 

In the days leading up to his wish, the excitement was impossible to contain. "He has been counting the days," Marlina said. 

For years, Elieser had been self-conscious to show his teeth when he smiled. His wish wasn't just about straightening his smile – it was about helping him feel comfortable enough to share it. 

"The idea that somebody would want braces as their wish is really an honor to me," said Dr. McGuire, Elieser's orthodontist. "A big part of what we do is move teeth, but the other half is that we really help boost confidence. Just to see him smiling a little bit more compared to when he first walked in, that’s what it’s all about.”

"I feel really excited," he said. "I'm happy that I got them, and I feel like I can smile all day." 

After overcoming cancer, graduating early and receiving his heartfelt wish, Elieser has every reason to smile.