Makayla’s Story

Makayla, an 18-year-old, first year college student loves spending time in nature, animals, reading and music. She also has a twin sister, Carly. When Makayla was 15 years old, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. What started in her knees and ankles eventually spread into her hands, hips and back. She has endured chemotherapy, immunosuppressants, biologic medications and infusions. Her condition makes the everyday things, like walking, difficult. Beyond her post-secondary education, Makayla just started her own independent artist management agency and looks forward to her future. 

When Makayla found out she was going to be granted a wish, she and her sister (who is also a wish kid) originally wished to go on a European cruise with their family. Due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the travel wish was delayed, and she reimagined her wish to help fuel her love and passion for music. Makayla wished for her own baritone saxophone. She has been playing the sax since she was 12 years old and has grown to love it, so much so that she is currently studying Music Industry Arts at Fanshawe College. Makayla will enjoy her wish for years to come, and it will allow her to continue to do something that fills her heart and soul. 

“Opening the case was life-changing! Seeing MY saxophone for the first time brought tears to my eyes, it still does even looking back now writing this. It was a beautiful, beautiful instrument and I just could not believe it was mine.”  

– Makayla, wish child