Grayson's wish and poem

A 15-year-old living in northeast Virginia, Grayson knew she wanted to hit the beach for her wish and Virginia Beach was the perfect beach to go to! Grayson’s wish was granted as she and her family headed to coastal Virginia to spend five days at the beach. She learned to sail, visited local museums and restaurants, and even experienced a chartered boat ride. The family spent time together lounging on the beach and playing in the ocean with the King Neptune statue as the backdrop for their adventures. 

Grayson was diagnosed with cancer at an age where she fully understood the implications of her illness and engaged in her treatment plan, carrying the burden of what it all meant. The time spent away from hospitals during her wish gave Grayson and her family treasured memories to cherish and great stories to bring back with them. 
 

Blessing in Disguise

I was just in my room
Smiling care-free
When my mom came in
And told terrifying news to me

I didn’t panic
I acted my age
She already had options for me
I was old enough to engage

I heard the choices
Weighed the outcomes
St.Jude was the best choice
So they were the ones

I went in with fear
Weary for days and nights
I was told not to worry
I didn’t need to put up a fight

I met lots of doctors
Who I bonded with and became friends
So I almost hated the end of appointments
I didn’t want them to end

But one visit I had
Is one I'd never expect
I didn’t know I qualified for this
Well I guess we never checked

Make-A-Wish
We can make your dreams come true
Make-A-Wish
We can make anything happen for you

I sat there in shock
Looking at the list
Is all this true?
Did such a program exist?

Maybe this wasn’t a curse
Maybe it’s something I didn’t recognize
Could this scary situation
Actually be a blessing in disguise?

I started to believe
A smile grew across my face
I dove into this fantasy
Time to pick a opportunity and place

My mom and I both agreed
On what to do
So that we told them
And happiness ensued

Even if we had to change it
I didn’t mind
I’d still have my family
And have an amazing time

So the occasion got changed
And I ended up here
But this entire vacation
I relaxed with no fear

Thank you Make-A-Wish
For making this week the best
My joy and gratitude
I just cannot express

I wish I could find you all
And hug you one by one
We all had an amazing time
We all had so much fun

Make-A-Wish
We can make your dreams come true
They sure kept their promise with me
And I’m sure they’ll do the same for you

Thank you all

Love and affection

- Grayson

Special thanks to our friends at the We Promise Foundation for sponsoring Grayson's wish!