“Ever since Rachael’s illness, there was a stew of emotions across the household: Fear for Rachael and what she is going through, anxiety as parents about how we couldn’t prevent [her illness]. Her brother felt guilty about being away at college while she was going through the worst of it. It felt like we did not have the energy to do anything but worry,” said Rachael’s dad, Dan.  

Diagnosed with a heart condition, Rachael spent countless hours in hospital rooms — through a two-week stay, surgeries and frequent outpatient appointments. “When I was in the hospital, it wasn’t just me going through stuff,” shared Rachael. “That’s why I wanted to pick [a wish] my whole family could enjoy."   

Rachael’s wish forged the opportunity for quality family time, heightened by a new adventure – a cruise. 

As Pacific Northwesterners, Rachael’s family loves being in the great outdoors. An Alaskan cruise let her family explore and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Alaska from the open sea.  

From the misty fjords of Endicott Arm to the icy brilliance of Dawes Glacier, every stop — Skagway, Juneau and beyond — was a postcard of wonder. Rachael’s family went river rafting, watching salmon leap from the water. And they rode a scenic railroad through breathtaking landscapes, collecting souvenirs at every stop. The cruise ship itself was an adventure. From indoor skydiving to swimming and surfing, they explored every amenity of the vessel. One of her highlights was a behind-the-scenes tour with the captain, where she observed the crew operations and ship controls. “That was super cool, and I felt special because nobody else got to do that," shared Rachael. 

Although her family felt like VIPs, Dan shared his personal highlight: “Seeing Rachael enjoying life without compromise. Her illness prevents her from being overly active, and a cruise allows you to have fun with as much or as little energy as you like. On her good days, she was walking around shopping in Alaska or 'skydiving' on the ship. And when she needed to slow down, she could sit in the pool or watch a show. Being able to laugh and have fun together is our family’s greatest highlight of this wish.” 

Special thanks to Royal Caribbean International, Bayview Limousine, wish-granting volunteers Michael Giovanola and Lynne Buckingham, and to our Adopt-A-Wish sponsor Hempler’s Doubles for making Rachael's wish possible.