I wish to have a hot tub
Cillian
8
nervous system disorder
Cillian's Hot Tub
A Boy And His Hot Tub
Cillian is a happy, curious and energetic eight-year-old. So when Rebecca, Cillian’s mom, found out that her son’s wish was granted from Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas, she knew just what Cillian would wish for.
Shortly after birth, Cillian was diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a brain injury caused by lack of oxygen at birth which causes epilepsy. As a result, much of Cillian’s childhood is spent in physical therapy, treatments and doctor’s visits. Rebecca reflects on her son’s wish experience and the possibilities for his wish. She explains how they landed on wishing for a hot tub to have at home.
“It was something that therapeutically is really good for him, and it’s something that he loves. So if you can combine fun and therapy, that’s a winner. That’s absolutely a winner.”
Focused on Rehabilitation
In May of 2021, Cillian had hip surgery that focused on reshaping his femur bone and hip socket to improve mobility. Although this surgery is common for children living with conditions similar to Cillian, he still has a long road of recovery ahead of him.
One primary concern of the recovery process is maintaining mobility. Cillian’s mom explains how important aquatic and physical therapy is to her son’s healing journey. The warm water from the hot tub helps take the pressure and weight off of his muscles, all while helping him get his flexibility back.
“People often have a tough time understanding what Cillian is trying to say. But we all understand when he says, ‘It’s Cillian’s hot tub!”
Rebecca, Cillian's mom
Family Means Everything
Rebecca could see how life-changing this wish would be for her son throughout the wish process. But what she didn’t know, is how life-changing this wish would be to her family. Rebecca recalls when Cillian first received his hot tub and its impact on her family and two other children.
“Cillian’s two favorite people are his brother and sister. He’s just so happy when they all get to do stuff together. It’s so sweet, as a mom, to be able to see that and to know that it brings them so much joy together.”
The hot tub that Cillian received for his wish has helped him gain more strength and independence. Not only that, but it has provided much-appreciated family time for Cillian and his family.
Cillian's Hot Tub
Although Cillian has limited expressive speech, he still is able to share his excitement about his wish with his loved ones. Rebecca explains how when friends and family visit her home, Cillian motions guest over to the window where his hot tub can easily be seen. He then proudly points to his hot tub and exclaims, “it’s Cillian’s hot tub!”