Ten-year-old Aria from Fairfax Station, Virginia refuses to let cancer slow her down. This athlete tackles life with gusto, whether it is gliding across the ice rink like a ballerina, battling it out on the tennis court, or scaling rock walls like a miniature explorer. With her charm, lively conversation, and limitless energy, Aria is a force to be reckoned with.  

Aria and her family have two large dogs and often foster dogs before they find their fur-ever homes. Aria loves her pets, but longed for a smaller companion, a furry confidante who would curl up and cuddle with her in bed. After meeting with the Make-A-Wish wish granting volunteers and brainstorming ideas for her wish, Aria’s wish became clear: Aria wished to have a Longhaired English Cream Miniature Dachshund. 

After learning about Aria’s wish, a dog owner from Texas personally flew with the puppy to the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to meet Aria and her family. When Aria met the puppy for the first time, she could not stop smiling- it was a beautiful moment. The puppy, now named Ollie, fits right in with Aria’s family.  

Aria’s fight continues, but now she has a furry cheerleader by her side. Ollie is a symbol of Aria’s indomitable spirit, a testament to the power of a cuddle, and a reminder that even the smallest creatures can leave paw prints on the biggest hearts.