Cameron received a heart transplant as an infant, which was “an amazing gift that has given him life,” shared his dad, Robert. Since his heart transplant, Cameron, now 10, has faced all the medical encounters one would expect – countless appointments, frequent lab draws at home, and a handful of very serious illnesses due to his suppressed immune system. 

“This made Cameron a tough and resilient kid, but it has also impacted him socially as he’s missed many special events over the years due to illnesses,” Robert shared. “Cameron’s condition has also allowed him to experience the incredible compassion and generosity that comes out of clinicians, friends, family and even known people who learn of his story.” 

Despite the challenges from his condition, Cameron is first and foremost a kid who loves hockey. He’s an avid player and a devoted fan, especially of the Minnesota Wild. When he was referred to Make-A-Wish Minnesota, Cameron wished to meet the Minnesota Wild and his favorite player, Marc Fleury.  

What followed was a wish day that exceeded every expectation, thanks to the generosity of the Minnesota Wild.  Cameron began his wish day by signing a one-day contract to play for the Wild, officially becoming part of the team. He received a custom jersey with his name on it and found his own locker waiting for him right next to Fleury. Fully geared up, Cameron hit the ice to practice with the team and even enjoyed a one-on-one training session with Fleury. On game day, Cameron walked alongside every player and when asked who his favorite player was, he said, “Probably all of them.” 

Cameron’s wish created a ripple effect, impacting not only his life, but also his community and everyone around him. Cameron had one of his best hockey games of the season following his wish day with the Wild and his solo training with Fleury. His teammates wanted to hear all about his experience and community members reached out to celebrate alongside him. 

"Ultimately, it was the people that made the day from my perspective. Carleen (Make-A-Wish Minnesota Sr. Director of Program Services), the Wild Foundation, and the Wild players and staff gave Cameron so much time, attention, and love that day," said Robert.

Cameron’s journey has reshaped his family’s perspective on what truly matters. “As we are often reminded, each day with Cameron is a gift,” expressed Robert. 

When Cameron reflected on his wish and the impact it had on him, he said, “I know what the players are really like because I got to spend so much time with all of them. When I watch the game, I feel like I know what they are like outside of hockey.” 

He also shared that his wish experience “was really fun. I love the Wild even more now. I feel special that I got to do so many different things during my wish day.”