Luke's Story: WishMakers Bring Joy and Happiness to the World

In the middle of a family vacation, Luke’s health took an unexpected turn. His family rushed him to the nearest hospital, where he received a devastating cancer diagnosis. Luke was just 4 years old. “In life, you hope not to go through this experience as a father,” said Luke’s dad, Michael. “Everybody was scared.”

Luke’s year-long medical journey began immediately and included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy. “He handled the entire treatment like a champ, and we're very grateful for where he is today,” said Luke’s mom, Kristina. “We always tried to look at the positives, what we could look forward to … Make-A-Wish would be the biggest part of that positive experience.”

During treatment, Luke's parents would take him to the nearby coastline, which brought him peace because he loves the ocean so much. For his heartfelt wish, Luke longed to go to a beach he'd never visited before. “When my wish came true, I was so excited!” Luke said. 

Wish Gives Luke's Family a Sense of Peace

Luke’s entire family found solace on his wish as they soaked in the surf and sand, thanks to a community of caring WishMakers like you. From the thrill of jet skis to a 6 a.m. ocean sunrise, Luke lit up with joy and was especially grateful to share the experience with his brother, Pete.

“I felt that this wish, for the first time, brought us all peace,” Michael said. “We were a family. We had laughter. We had joy. We had a lot of good times, and we didn't worry.” Kristina added, "After experiencing close to a year of treatment, and then having his wish come true and go on a trip to the beach, it was unbelievable."

To Luke, WishMakers represent “joy and happiness,” and his entire family credits people like you for giving them a sense of normalcy again. “There are not enough words to say how thankful we are that you chose to help somebody in need,” Kristina said.