I wish to have a blue electric guitar
Deonna
12
brain tumor
Deonna's Wish Brings Gifts of Music and Hope
Songs by her favorite musicians not only inspire her to play music, they also provide a soothing soundtrack for her troubled days. Unlike most girls her age, Deonna has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, and has endured the painful challenges of difficult treatments. But Deonna doesn't let her condition stop her from pursuing her aspirations.
"I love music – and hearing and producing music," Deonna said. "When I grow up, I want to be a music producer [and] write my own songs.”
According to her grandmother, Maxine, Deonna has learned to play keyboards and acoustic guitar, and she can learn songs by ear. However, she wanted to add another instrument to her collection. When it came time for her to identify her wish, Deonna knew she wanted an electric guitar. "Blue is my favorite color, so I wanted a blue guitar," Deonna said.
Deonna's wish for an electric guitar came at a crucial time. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she has been afraid to go outside, and she has felt extra isolated. When a gorgeous blue Fender Stratocaster arrived on her doorstep, a light of hope instantly returned to Deonna's eyes.
"The guitar has given her a lot to do and brought her a lot of peace," Maxine said.
"She's been concentrating on getting better and recording her music videos. She just loves playing it."
With her family staying inside as much as possible, Deonna's talents have helped entertain the entire family during some of their darkest days. Once conditions return to normal, Deonna can't wait to shine brightly on a bigger stage. “She wants to play the guitar at church once we're all able to go to church again," Maxine said.
At a time when she needed it most, Deonna's electric guitar has given her renewed strength in the fight against her critical illness. It has also unleashed her imagination and given her an opportunity to follow her creative path wherever it takes her.
"Without my wish, I would be bored and just spending time alone in my house," Deonna said. "I know that my wish for this guitar is a steppingstone to something greater in the future."
