“I have a hard time remembering that the pain is temporary,” said Charlie. But between their moms, their pastor, their therapist, and their friends, Charlie is constantly reminded to focus on the good and just keep moving forward. 

Despite being surrounded by so much love, Charlie still had their dark moments. But in the times where they felt hopeless, there was a light-- tuning in to watch their favorite show where their idols transformed the lives of others.

As an empath themself, Charlie connected with the cast and their desire to help others feel seen. But that wasn’t the only reason Charlie chose to use their wish to meet them.

Around the time of their sophomore year, Charlie was going through the stages of realizing they were non-binary. Seeing a member of the group that identified similarly, helped reassure Charlie that they were not alone.

Watching the cast rise to fame, while being authentically themselves, “I grew as they grew,” said Charlie. “I just felt so much more secure of myself because of it.” 

When it came time to meet the group, who brought Charlie so many lighthearted moments during treatment, they were practically speechless. “Just hearing them say my name. I almost passed out,” Charlie said.

After being showered with compliments, Charlie realized the wish held a deeper meaning for their moms too. “Seeing me genuinely happy, brought them joy too,” said Charlie. For the family, the fact that the wish was granted during Pride Month made it all the more special.

“I’ve been to pride almost every year since birth,” said Charlie. “It’s a time where I feel not afraid and completely free.”

Although the month is coming to a close, speaking with their idols has rejuvenated Charlie’s commitment to love themself year-round and stay strong during their upcoming rounds of treatment.