Meet Lauren, a loving and outgoing 18-year-old who enjoys playing with animals and embracing her creative side. When Lauren isn’t helping those around her, she can be found doing arts and craft projects. Lauren’s family describes her as always putting others before herself and spreading joy to everyone she meets.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor at birth, Lauren’s current treatment plan includes monthly chemotherapy and bi-weekly appointments to the eye doctor. Unfortunately, Lauren’s brain tumor has started to cause her to lose her eyesight. To ensure that Lauren is getting the best care, her family travels to Phoenix for every eye appointment. Despite all that Lauren must endure with her diagnosis, she still maintains a positive attitude through it all. One thing that helps Lauren persevere through her treatments is her love of animals, and that’s why she wished to have a puppy! 

Lauren’s special wish reveal was one she will never forget. Lauren knew she was getting a puppy, but she didn’t know that the Las Vegas Review-Journal partnered with Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada to surprise Lauren with a car parade outside her home. Lauren’s wish reveal was a celebration that allowed everyone to come together in a fun and safe way. After the community car parade and receiving her Golden Retriever puppy, Casper, Lauren went to PetSmart for a puppy supply shopping spree to get Casper all the items needed to make him comfortable in his new home. Since Lauren spends so much of her time in the hospital, she hopes to have Casper trained as a service dog to accompany her while she goes through treatment. Casper is sure to provide Lauren with valuable companionship and happiness for years to come. We can’t wait to see all the support, comfort, and happiness Casper brings Lauren as she deals with her diagnosis at present and in the future.