Amaaya is an 8-year-old from Tampa Bay battling a lifelong nervous system disorder. It affects her motor skills—limiting her ability to stand or walk without assistance.  

When Amaaya and her parents were encouraged by their wish granters to think big, they thought long and hard about all the possibilities. Ultimately, Amaaya chose to have something that would drastically improve their day-to-day lives. Amaaya wished to have a spider therapy cage. 

A spider cage—formally known as the Universal Exercise Unit (UEU)—is a special therapy system that uses bungees and elastic cords to support an individual during movement. It helps with balance, strength, and standing practice by giving just the right amount of assistance while letting them feel safe and confident.  

Before Amaaya had her wish granted, her parents would travel far multiple times a week for her intensive therapy appointments. While Amaaya enjoys those sessions, and occasionally still meets with her physical therapist, this at-home therapy system has provided major relief for the whole family. Now, Amaaya gets to move her body daily, on her own accord, in the comfort of her own home. 

This wish was not only a practical means of building Amaaya’s motor skills, muscles, and independence, but she also finds it fun! Normally confined to a wheelchair, being able to move around in new ways within a large space she can call her own is a grand adventure. This wish has improved her quality of life.  

Amaaya’s wish to have a spider therapy cage was out of the ordinary and so perfectly suited to her long-term goals and needs. 

Wish Granters: Tessa & Colin Dvorak