The central Illinois community of Chatham rallied together on a beautiful spring day to celebrate local wish kid Oaklynn. Waving from a float colorfully decorated to match her personality, Oaklynn spent the whole day smiling and dancing as she waved and visited with friends, family and community members.

Born with a nervous system disorder, Oaklynn lives with several life-threatening diagnoses that require constant attention and frequent hospitalizations. While there are many difficulties caused by Oaklynn’s medical conditions, she has the loving support of her family to carry her through the toughest times.

Because Oaklynn loves attention and interacting with friends and family, a day filled with both was the perfect wish for her. Oaklynn’s wish was as meaningful for her parents and siblings as it was for her.

Her wish day started with shopping for the perfect outfit and then a stop for hair and makeup, which from her smile seemed to be her favorite part. Then, it was off to the parade where more than 20 local groups marched with her and dozens more waved along the route. The parade ended at a party where Oaklynn could visit with her classmates and enjoy music, cake and more.

“We never imagined the kind of response we get,” Oaklynn’s mom Jocelyn shared with a local news outlet. “It was really important for all of us to have something to look forward to.”

From the local police department to a group of pageant queens and the school band, Oaklynn was surrounded by joy and support, something that warmed her parent’s hearts.

“She was in heaven the whole day. It was fun to see her responsive and see that light shining through her,” Jocelyn said. “She was on cloud nine you could tell she felt very special.”

Jocelyn said Make-A-Wish has helped her family in making the most of every moment not only with Oaklynn, but also with her brother Nolan whose wish to visit Hawaii was granted in 2018. Enjoying the sand and the son, Jocelyn said it was one of the only times she remembers seeing her son so relaxed and happy.

“[Both wishes were] something we could experience as a family. As a family we will never forget, because we got to witness pure joy. We’ll always carry these memories with us.”