Yuval and mom in front of mountains

From Illness to Adventure: Yuval's Inspiring Journey to Explore the World

Yuval and family dog sledding in Alaska

Above all else, Yuval loves adventure. He wants to see the world and explore. Traveling was a favorite activity between him and his mom... until he got sick.  

When he was 7, Yuval’s mom found a lump on his neck. He was diagnosed with lymphoma, and faced aggressive treatment.

“I was heartbroken and lost,” his mom, Avital said. “I couldn’t take one breath of air without pain all over my body.”  

But through determination, Yuval made it through his battle and today has no evidence of disease. And, he got to celebrate with a wish.  

Yuval used his wish to do two of his favorite things – to ski and to explore a part of the world he’d never seen: Alaska!

His wish was a real adventure, not only skiing, but snowmobiling, show shoeing and even dog sledding. He made sure to experience as much of the Alaskan wilderness as he possibly could.  

Yuval and Friend playing in snow

But most important to him – he didn’t do it alone. Yuval had the chance to bring his best friend, Chase, along for the ride. Growing up as only children in the same building, the two are more like brothers than friends, and Yuval couldn’t picture a wish without him.  

The pair took lessons together and skied as much as they could, staying out until they closed the lifts.  

“It was beautiful how Yuval and Chase took care of each other on the mountain, as they were both learning how to ski and snowboard together and really counting on each other," Avital said. 

Throughout it all, they took care of each other and created memories that will last a lifetime.  

“He had a wonderful time on the mountains, he couldn’t get enough of them,” Avital said. “Yuval enjoyed every moment.” 

Yuval’s wish gave him pure joy and helped him reclaim a part of himself that he lost fighting illness. The adventurer is back and excited to explore even more of the world. We can’t wait to see where he goes next!  

 

There are children in our community waiting for their wish - you can make it come true.