Carly’s Story

Carly, an 18-year-old, first year university student loves anything to do with music, kayaking, canoeing and hiking. She also has a twin sister, Makayla. It was only a couple years ago, after years of unexplained pain and illness that Carly was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease when she was 16. Shortly after her diagnosis, she had to take time off school and slowly she began to learn how to manage life with a critical illness. While her treatment can be difficult and her illness can often be unpredictable, it impacts everything from school performance to daily activities.  Carly is currently studying at the University of Ottawa, to pursue her passion for global politics and community empowerment. 

She and her twin sister, who is also a wish kid, originally wished to go on a European cruise with their family. Because of COVID-19, Carly’s travel wish was paused, and she decided to wish it forward, and donate the funds allocated for her wish to Life Spin (a local anti-poverty charity) to help those affected by the pandemic. Carly’s mentor and former teacher, who unfortunately passed away earlier last year, introduced her to Life Spin and taught her the importance of giving back to the community. Her wish helped Life Spin provide toys to more than 120 families across her hometown for Christmas. 

“I cannot express how happy I am with this wish. My wish come true was the perfect way to not only honour my mentor but make an impact in the lives of those in my community!” 

– Carly, wish child