I wish to meet and play with Atlético Ottawa
Zoe, 12
respiratory disorder
12-year-old Zoe has faced more than most kids her age. Diagnosed with a respiratory disorder at just 10 days old, every day comes with its challenges — but through it all, her love of soccer has carried her through. When Make-A-Wish Canada granted her wish to meet and play with her favourite team, Atlético Ottawa, it gave Zoe and her whole family something exciting to look forward to.
Watch Zoe’s Wish Story
How It All Began
12-year-old Zoe’s life revolves around soccer, with dreams of one day becoming a professional player. But behind her time on the field, she has faced more than most kids her age after being diagnosed with a respiratory disorder at just 10 days old. Along the way, Zoe has also received additional diagnoses, making her everyday life more challenging. Despite these struggles though, her love of soccer has carried her through, helping to keep her lung capacity strong. “Every day is still a struggle,” Zoe’s mom, Caroline shared. “Zoe’s a warrior through it all.”
Zoe’s two favourite soccer teams are Atlético Ottawa and Ottawa Rapid FC, and she hopes to one day play for the latter. She wanted her wish to be something truly memorable, which is why she wished to meet and play with Atlético Ottawa! “The anticipation was very positive on Zoe, as well as on us as her parents,” Caroline shared. “It meant we all had something exciting to look forward to.” As soon as the date of the wish was revealed to Zoe, she started mentally planning for it.
An Unforgettable Day
Zoe’s wish was unforgettable! She signed a one-day contract, joined morning practice, was gifted a symbolic captain’s armband and customized swag (a jersey, shorts, and socks) received a signed soccer ball, and sat in on the post-game press conference. Her absolute favourite memory was time spent on the field training with the team, specifically practicing her penalty kicks. She told her parents before the wish that she didn’t want the team to take it easy on her, and she meant it!
Being with the team she loves, alongside players she recognizes, was everything she could have asked for. “As a bonus, Zoe loves talking with adults and the time she spent chatting with the staff, including the club leadership, is a memory that will last alongside the entire experience,” Caroline shared. Zoe is looking forward to attending many more Atlético games and interacting with the players after the match. Since her wish has been granted, her dedication to her soccer training has increased significantly. “Zoe didn’t want her wish to end, and we didn’t either,” Caroline shared.
