Make-A-Wish^® Iowa

Austin was diagnosed at 10 months with a rare brain tumor called a Craniopharyngioma. His medical journey has included weeks spent in Iowa City, followed by several months at St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. In August of 2019, Austin underwent surgery to remove the tumor with a craniotomy at LeBonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis.  Due to the surgery, Austin has Diabetes Insipidus, Hypothalamic Obesity, Hypothyroidism, and Adrenal Insufficiency.  He must take several pills a day to help control these issues.  In February of 2020 Austin had another MRI and it showed that the tumor started to grow again.  We have another MRI in Iowa City in May and depending on the results will determine what our next course of action is.

“Austin was referred for Make-A-Wish by Des Moines Gala Chair and Sponsorship Chair, JoDee and Abby Stensland. When Austin’s parents found out he was approved for a wish they felt, “Pure joy!,” Austin’s father said, You never think your child will be the one that has a serious medical condition and seeing your child go through this a not being able to help or take their pain away is the hardest thing I have ever went through, so to be able to bring him an experience of a lifetime is amazing.  The Make-A-Wish kids deserve some joy in their lives, and these wishes gives them that.”