Colton was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was just 12 years old.
After a devastating and exhausting fight, a social worker at Colton’s hospital referred him for a wish that would provide a beacon of light during such a dark time.
Colton’s passion for Greek food was so strong that he often envisioned himself as a chef, yearning to serve up interesting dishes and show off his creativity in the kitchen. He knew his ultimate wish was to take cooking classes in Greece, and Make-A-Wish® made it come true.
“There were so many amazing things that happened on the trip,” said Colton’s mom, Tabitha. “Things you couldn’t even plan. He was just smiling constantly. It truly was incredible.”
When I went on that trip, it was one way to get out of the sickness that [I was] dealing with at the moment and it was just really helpful for me.
Colton
wish granted 2013
Once Colton arrived in Greece, he was presented with a memorable experience that changed his life forever. He explored the ancient sites and tried an exciting variety of foods. Colton also got the chance to cook with a variety of local chefs in the Greek Isles.
Five years later, Colton is healthy and strong, and his wish continues to transform his life. Today, Colton works as a chef at a restaurant in his town. He is also still actively involved with Make-A-Wish Mid-South, which granted his wish, through a variety of dining experiences that help raise money for the chapter.
“I know that my wish meant a lot to me, and I wanted to do that for another child,” Colton said. “I decided to find ways that my cooking could help grant more wishes.”