For the past few years, Zach’s days have been filled with doctors’ visits and serious health scares concerning his struggle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

When Zach’s wish became delayed due to treatments and health complications, the idea of soon being able to travel to Australia and see the Reef were visions and thoughts that helped him get through those hard times. 

"Australia was all he talked about," mom Patti said of Zach’s anticipation.

Zach, along with his mom Patti, dad John and sister Carly, packed their bags and set off for Sydney and the Gold Coast in Australia in December!

Once they arrived in the land down under, they spent three days exploring and sightseeing Sydney. They went to see the breathtaking Blue Mountains in Katoomba and the Featherdale Wildlife Park where Zach and his family were able to feed and pet the Kangaroos and take pictures with koalas!

They went to one of Sydney’s most popular beaches, Manly Beach, where they took a lot of pictures before embarking on their journey north to Cairns where Zach’s wish came true! 

Zach and his family went snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef where a professional photographer captured unforgettable moments for them on film. They were able to swim for hours in the crystal clear water alongside giant fish and tropical sea creatures!

"Going on this trip was one of the most amazing experiences I could have asked for," Zach said of his wish. "My family and I will never forget it. There will never be enough thank you’s for this amazing trip that Make-A-Wish gave me."