Dear Dad - What You Mean to Me
For a parent with a child fighting a critical illness, the emotional weight of caring for a loved one can be heavy. And for a family with two children coping with similar diagnoses, it is so much more difficult.
Wish siblings, Paul Jr. and Adryana, both fight the same nervous system disorder that leaves them confined to their wheelchairs. Between the two children, the family has endured roughly 100 surgeries and countless visits to the hospital.
Leading by example, their father, Paul Sr., has taught them that family is everything.
“From the day they were born he has been at their side - every surgery, ER visit, and doctor’s appointment,” said their mom, Karen. “When one of them had a surgery, he would go to work, come home to care for the one that was home, then come to the hospital until midnight to do it all over again.”
As for the kids, their illnesses and their struggles have made them extremely close. “They rely on each other,” said Karen. “It’s almost as if they are twins even though they’re not.”
And when each of them got to experience their own wish, their journeys brought them even closer.
Adryana wished to be treated like a princess and dine amongst royalty; to feel special not just for her illness, for being the princess she is. She still fondly remembers the trip today through the souvenirs on display in their home. “When she’s feeling down, that’s what she does - she remembers her trip,” said Karen.
Her brother, Paul, feels similarly when looking at the cleats and jersey that were gifted to him by the Pittsburg Steelers’ quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger. Since his wish to meet them, he has lived each day by his own personal motto, “No disability can stop my ability.” This upcoming Fall he’ll be beginning his freshman year of college. Inspired by his wish, he’s hoping to dedicate his studies to the field of sports management.
Karen is often in awe at her children’s individual and collective strength. “You’d think they would be mad at the world, but they’re just so happy,” she said. “They’re great kids who love to help.”
While she tries to channel positivity from her children, often Karen has had to lean on her husband during her darkest days. “He has been by my side praying, crying, and wishing he could do anything to take their pain away,” she said. “Without him I couldn’t have gotten through any of it.”
Paul Sr. is their rock. “He is the true definition of an amazing father,” Karen said.
To thank their dad this Father’s Day, Adryana and Paul each wrote a special note to honor him:
Adryana:
“My dad means the world to me. He has helped me through the most toughest things in life. He is my hero and I love him so much!”
Paul Jr.:
“He means so much to me because he’s there when I have surgeries, sports, and school events. I can always count on him for support.”