How a Puppy Changed Kaelee’s Life

Her Wish Became Her Best Friend

One day, 8-year-old Kaelee had a fever and a swollen throat. Her parents took her to the emergency room, where they felt like they were living a nightmare. The doctors found a tumor in her spine. After having the tumor removed, they discovered Kaelee had Ewing’s sarcoma — a rare form of cancer. Before they could even process what was happening, Kaelee had to begin treatment. She endured a spinal surgery, 14 rounds of radiation and 30 rounds of chemotherapy, causing her immense pain and exhaustion.

“Getting cancer was the worst. It had a huge impact on me because the year before, I had lost my aunt to cancer, so me losing her made me think I wasn’t going to make it.”

Kaelee

wish kid

To get through the days, Kaelee turned to her favorite movie about a big Saint Bernard for comfort. And her wish was that she would one day have a puppy of her own.

So, Make-A-Wish^® America arranged for a scavenger hunt inspired by her favorite movie, which led her to a Saint Bernard puppy wearing a big pink bow. Kaelee was immediately filled with joy, saying it was “a dream come true.” The pair soon became inseparable, and Missy helped give Kaelee the strength she needed to keep fighting and recover. Kaelee’s mom, Ariel said, “When Kaelee comes home, Missy is right beside her and barks for her. Missy has been Kaelee’s rock through everything.” For Kaelee and so many other children with critical illnesses, wishes are life-changing. And right now, there are thousands of children who are waiting for wishes. You can help them by giving today.