This holiday season I have accepted the challenge of being a Wish Hero and raising $500 for Make-A-Wish Mid-South. Your support will help spark joy and create hope for children with critical illnesses and their families.
I wish to go to a wolf sanctuary
DJ, 18
Cancer
In July, a community witnessed a heartwarming tale of courage, family, and the indomitable spirit of a young man named Deshon, better known as DJ. DJ, a witty and cool 17-year-old, has a passion for the arts, pro wrestling, and nature…specifically wolves.
But what truly sets DJ apart is his steadfast love for his family, whom he affectionately calls his “wolf pack” (and DJ is of course the Alpha).
DJ’s life took an unexpected turn when doctors diagnosed him with cancer. This battle separated him from his family, as DJ spent much of his time at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It was a trying time for DJ and his family, as they faced the challenges of the disease and the emotional toll it took on their close-knit bond.
“There were times when both of us had to be with DJ in the hospital and his siblings were with his godmother. We couldn’t do it alone, we had to do it together,” Tanisha, DJ’s mom, shared at his wish celebration. Throughout this challenging journey, DJ’s siblings stood by his side, offering their unwavering support and love.
Enter Make-A-Wish Mid-South. DJ’s wish was simple yet profound: he wanted to visit a wolf sanctuary. It was a wish that symbolized his love for nature and his desire to break free from the confines of a hospital room.
This summer, when DJ spent his wish trip surrounded by the majestic creatures he had longed to see; he was in awe. The experience allowed him and his family to unwind, to escape from the harsh realities of a hospital room and appointments, and to revel in the beauty of nature uninterrupted.
The wolf sanctuary provided a backdrop for DJ and his family to reconnect, laugh and create lasting memories. As nature often offers, it was a sanctuary not only for the wolves but also for DJ’s family. The sanctuary’s serene environment reflected the resilience of DJ and his family, who had weathered the storm together.
DJ’s journey is a testament to the power of a wish granted and the transformative impact it can have on a young person’s life. It allowed him to escape the confines of his illness, to embrace the beauty of the natural world, and to strengthen the bonds with his beloved wolf pack.
DJ and so many others like him is why I decided to become a Wish Hero to raise funds for Make-A-Wish Mid-South to help wish families. Life-changing wishes wouldn't happen without the power of donors like you. By granting a child’s wish, you’ll spark joy that will rejuvenate and help them cope with the stress of fighting a critical illness – and you’ll create hope for brighter days ahead.
I have seen, firsthand, the power of hope and pure joy when a wish is granted. I am raising money from now until December 31st, to make more wishes possible. Please help me bring hope and joy to kids with critical illnesses by donating today. Every dollar raised matters. Spark joy. Create hope. Please donate today.
