Khyden, a playful 7-year-old, has always loved being active, outside, and in the water. At fifteen days old, he was diagnosed with a respiratory disorder and was in the hospital for the first year of his life. “As he was the first-born, it was an especially hard time on our family” -Emily, Khyden’s Mother. Despite his daily at-home treatments, Khyden spends as much time as possible outdoors, especially during Illinois' brief summer-like weather.  

When he was referred to Make-A-Wish, his love of swimming and fishing inspired him to wish for a pool in his backyard to enjoy with his friends and family. One day, Khyden came home from school to find their garage filled with boxes towering over him with all the equipment needed for his new pool. He was so excited that once the pool was installed, he wasted no time, getting in with just a couple of inches of water. The ladder had not been added yet, so Khyden’s dad had to lift him over to experience his pool for the first time. 

 Since the new addition to their backyard, Khyden and his siblings want to be outside all the time, even more than before! They have participated in morning, afternoon, and night swims all spring and summer long. It has given them an activity to do together. “The pool will always be a physical representation of his wish and the continued enjoyment it has brought to our family”, his mom notes. With pool season ending, Khyden will be counting down the days until the pool opens again.