Jovalyn’s New Year's Eve Wish
Like most 13-year-olds, Jovalyn enjoys fashion, shopping, and spending time with her family. According to her mom, Courtney, “Jovie” is positive, optimistic, and always has a smile on her face. But in 2020, this happy-go-lucky girl was suddenly faced with a devastating diagnosis: leukemia.
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood cells—the most common form of cancer among children and teens. In addition to the widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms of this disease, these brave, young warriors must also undergo rigorous treatments that rob them of the little strength they have left.
In the summer of 2020, this also meant protecting Jovie’s depleted immune system during one of the worst pandemics of the century. But even though the world was going through the same unprecedented times together, Jovie’s situation was a little different.
While she was going through radiation and chemotherapy, Jovie was also joining a new family. She was being adopted!
Courtney and her husband were matched with Jovalyn in December of 2021, about two-thirds of the way through her treatment. Although they were relatively new as a family unit, they were able to step into the role of Jovie’s parents with ease, attending all of her doctor appointments and procedures.
“We did have a very rocky road with her treatment,” Courtney says. “She did have some life-threatening instances…there were a couple of times there were some close calls.”
Yet throughout it all, Jovalyn managed to stay positive and stay on grade level. “A huge accomplishment between Covid and online schooling!” her mother said. Treatment finally came to an end in November 2022 when Jovie was declared cancer free!
For her big wish, Jovalyn chose to go to New York City! And what better way to experience the Big Apple than watching the ball drop on New Year’s Eve?
As she hoped, Jovie and her entire family got to board a plane for NYC and they hit the ground running—literally! The family of 11 got to experience The Big Apple at its finest, at the peak of the holiday season.
The crew went ice skating, visited the Bronx Zoo and the Statue of Liberty, and took a carriage ride through Central Park. Fortunately, the fun was just beginning!
Jovalyn was the guest of honor at a private party hosted by the police commissioner. While there, she got to meet other Wish Kids, the commissioner himself, and the horses and canines who help these brave officers keep the city safe.
Jovie and her siblings walked away with a host of gifts that night. “They were so generous and so kind,” her mom remembers.
Finally, the night of the 31st arrived.
The family attended another private party at 3 Times Square, where they were able to enjoy delicious food and fun activities before going down to the street just before midnight to watch the ball drop!
So, was it everything Jovalyn hoped it would be?
“She really loved it!” Courtney says. “The reality really did live up to the expectation and it was amazing."
Coping with cancer treatments while also adapting to life with a new family may have been overwhelming for some children, but Jovie has handled it with grace and optimism. As a family-oriented teen, she is only too happy to see her family grow!
“She’s all in with being a part of our family and spending time with all of us,” says Courtney. “The fact that the trip included all of her siblings meant a lot to her, so, of course, it means something to us.”
It was this aspect of connection that stood out the most to Courtney.
“The human connection is what I value. That really meant the most to me. People really do want to help each other for the most part and you see that when you’re on a Make-A-Wish trip.”
In addition to lifting her spirits after a difficult time, Jovalyn’s wish experience helped them all bond as a family. With siblings ranging in age from five to 18, it can be hard to find activities that appeal to everyone. But thanks to Make-A-Wish, everyone had a great time!
“With a family of 11, we couldn’t have made that trip on our own,” Courtney says. “We are so, so grateful for all the people involved.”
For kids like Jovalyn, a wish is more than just a fun experience, it’s a way to bring hope to a life marred by loss. One hundred percent of wish kids say that having their wish granted made them feel more hopeful for the future, and many credit it as the turning point in their recovery.
Every day, Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida changes the lives of critically ill children, but we can’t do it alone. By donating, volunteering, or attending one of our local events, you can help grant the wishes of these amazing kids.