Eli's Wish
Hospital stays, doctor’s visits, and treatments means their lives will never be the same. This is what happened to wish kid Eli and his family in November 2019. Eli, who is 17 years old, noticed a bump right below his knee cap. When the bump didn’t go away and he began struggling to walk, his parents took him to the doctor. After a whirlwind of x-rays, tests and biopsies, they learned that Eli had cancer. By December 30th, he had begun treatment. According to Eli’s mom, Daina, their whole family and community were devastated that Eli had to go through this rough journey, especially Eli’s twin brother Dominic, who was heartbroken that his “best buddy” was going to have to endure chemo and surgery. However, Eli’s family came together and learned how to care for a child battling cancer.
“We felt like we had things down...then COVID-19 happened and everything changed again! New procedures, new rules, masks, screenings….loneliness,” said Daina. “We have done our best, we have prayed, we have found humor in utterly ridiculous situations that no 17-year-old or their family should have to endure.”
Adapting to this new way of life hasn’t always been easy, but Eli and his family try to focus on the positive. For Eli, one of his favorite things in the world is vehicles, and he has wanted a 4-wheeler for a long time because he loves to go fast. That is why when he found out he would be receiving a wish, he knew right away that he wanted a 4-wheeler. However, Eli’s first surgery on his leg to remove the cancerous tumor didn’t turn out as planned. Eli and his family had to decide to either continue to try and save the leg with even more surgery or choose amputation. Eli chose to do amputation and move forward with treatments. This decision changed his wish slightly to a utility terrain vehicle (UTV).
“He tells EVERYONE about it! He has something to look forward to, which is helping him get through this last stretch of treatments.” said Daina.
Due to these uncertain times, bringing hope and joy to wish kids, like Eli, is important now more than ever.
“Worry, questions, instability, sadness, [our kids] missing us when we have to be away at the hospital. It’s a lot for anyone to have to deal with, let alone being a kid and not understanding it fully,” said Daina. “Eli’s wish has been something for us all to look forward to. When all you want to do is see your sick child smile and you can’t afford to grant their wish….Make-A-Wish does!”