For 18-year-old Brynlee, Make-A-Wish has been part of her family’s story long before her wish was granted. Brynlee was diagnosed with a congenital heart disease before she was born, and her older brother, Heston, was born with a similar condition. When they were young, Heston’s wish was granted to visit Walt Disney World, giving their family memories they would cherish for years.

As Brynlee grew up, she was met with challenges due to her condition. She couldn't participate in contact sports or do activities that might raise her heart rate to dangerous levels, but her friends always found ways to include her. She became a team manager and sports photographer, which allowed her to support her friends and develop a love for photography and videography.

Brynlee knew she would eventually have the opportunity to make a wish of her own, but she chose to wait until she knew exactly what she wanted. For as long as she can remember, she has loved the ocean and tropical places—so much so that her bedroom is decorated with tropical colors and designs. She didn’t have to look far to draw inspiration for her wish. Brynlee decided her wish was to travel to Aruba and stay in an overwater bungalow. When she first shared her dream with her mom, her mom encouraged her to come up with a backup plan. But Brynlee didn't need one.

Make-A-Wish is in the business of saying yes.

Soon, Brynlee and her family were experiencing the tropical getaway she had dreamed about, creating memories together in a place that felt uniquely hers. Just weeks after returning home, Brynlee packed her bags again—this time to begin college at Rogers State University, where she plans to pursue a career in the medical field.

Having grown up with a heart condition and watched her brother navigate the same journey, Brynlee understands the difference compassionate medical care can make for a family. From Heston’s Disney wish to Brynlee’s Aruba adventure, wishes have become a meaningful part of their family’s story—and Brynlee’s wish gave her a chance to celebrate how far she has come and look ahead to all that is still possible.