As a typical "busy" tween, Ashley's days were filled with art, community service, and a close-knit circle of friends. She enjoyed the rugged outdoors as well: camping at the lake, boating with her brother, and a deep, burgeoning love for horseback riding.  

Ashley was diagnosed with leukemia in 2012. She completed three years of treatment, which included countless blood transfusions and chemo treatments. She got clear of cancer for about eight months but then relapsed.  At that point she was referred to Children's Hospital Colorado in Denver for complete full-body radiation and a bone marrow transplant. It took nearly a decade, but she was, at last, cancer-free in 2019. 

For her wish, she wanted to experience the magic of Hawaii with her parents and her brother. The family traveled to Oahu, staying at the Sheraton Waikiki, where they were treated to a level of care and "spoiling" that offered a much-needed reprieve from the rigors of medical treatment. 

She also celebrated her birthday on her trip at Dave & Buster's. Her mom, Lyndie, said that at Dave & Buster's “she and her brother had free rein over games and the prize room.” Embracing the ocean, despite being a "desert-raised" girl, Ashley felt at home in the water and was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of swimming with dolphins.

Perhaps the most poignant moment occurred during a guided horseback tour to a mountain peak. Recognizing Ashley’s natural skill, the guide allowed her to nudge her horse and gallop ahead of the group. Her mother describes the moment as incredibly "freeing"—a rare instance where Ashley could leave her patient status behind and simply be a rider in her element. 

Today, Ashley has transitioned from patient to provider. Now a pharmacy technician, she has dedicated her professional life to the medical field, even considering a future in nursing. 

Her mother describes this career path as a "double-edged sword." Ashley has a profound desire to help others based on her own experiences, the work remains deeply emotional. 

The "normalcy" the family enjoys today—working, hanging out with friends, and appreciating every quiet moment—is a gift they trace back to the strength gained during her wish. 

The impact of Ashley’s wish didn't end when the plane landed back in Idaho. Today, the family remains pillars of the Make-A-Wish® community. Ashley’s mother, Lyndie, has integrated philanthropy into her business, the Brewscape Beer Company in Hayden, Idaho. 

From hosting fundraising events to launching the inaugural Polar Plunge in North Idaho, the family is committed to ensuring other children facing critical illnesses get their own "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity.  

"The whole experience Make-A-Wish and her cancer journey—has turned all of our lives around... we appreciate every moment." said Lyndie.