I wish to have a backyard playset
Hunter, 6
kniest dysplasia (a rare genetic disorder)
Six-year-old Hunter’s health journey and prolonged hospital visits started before he was born. Hunter’s mom, Natasha, was pregnant when she received the news of inconsistencies in the results of her ultrasound scan. In May 2016, Natasha, welcomed Hunter into this world, and as she laid eyes on her son for the first time, she gave him a gentle kiss. The next moment, Hunter was rushed to the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with medical specialists for testing. Natasha reflects on Hunter’s initial hospital experience, “We spent the first month of Hunter’s life at the hospital. After finally being discharged, we would spend almost every other day at the hospital – so, it felt like we never left.”
After two years of extensive genetic testing and with the efforts of doctors nationally and globally, Hunter was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder (Kniest dysplasia). Due to his diagnosis, Hunter has had numerous surgeries on various parts of his body to help treat the symptoms. Still, Hunter and his family remain positive and focus on giving Hunter a life filled with independence.
Today, Hunter relies on specific medication to deal with daily discomforts and receives support from various forms of therapy to help him tackle everyday tasks such as eating and walking. In particular, the family enjoys “play therapy,” a treatment that alleviates the pressures of moving from Hunter. Hunter loves all sorts of play, to name a few: building blocks, watching his dad play hockey, and especially being outdoors. However, because Hunter relies on a walker, some terrains limit his mobility. When Hunter learned he was eligible for a wish, it came as fantastic news, and he wished with all his heart to have his own custom backyard playset where limitations do not exist.
Hunter is currently dreaming up all the wonderful items that will make up his special place – from a colourful playhouse to a relaxing seating area – he can’t wait for his wish to come true! When asked what Hunter’s wish means to the family, Natasha replied, “It means that Hunter can simply be a kid for once. A kid without medical issues, restrictions or obstacles.” She continued, “Hunter’s wish will bring a lifetime of happiness for our boy, who has endured so much in his life thus far.” After undergoing numerous surgeries, Hunter’s backyard playset wish will be a chance to regain the joys of childhood and make new lifelong memories with his family.
Hope is essential for children with critical illnesses, and its life-changing power is unlocked when wishes like Hunter’s are granted. Thanks to the generosity of our donor community, we can continue to transform lives, one wish at a time.
