Joey's Wish!
When Make-A-Wish first approached us, we didn't feel that it was appropriate that Joey receive a wish because he was doing so well. We didn't want to take away from another child's wish being granted. But as his illness progressed, we decided to let Joey decide. His answer was completely unselfish, "I don't need anything. I have everything I want." I was so proud of him, but we also allowed him some time to really consider if there was anything else that he wanted.
His wish was a suit of Clone Trooper armor that he could wear. Because he was so sick, talking to the Make-A-Wish people took some time. Finally, we had them come up to the hospital because Joey was actually coherent for a few hours at a time. He tried to explain to them the colors and style that he wanted.
The grantors decided to grant his wish on his birthday, April 14. They wanted to have a huge party and invite the entire Alpine Garrison, which is about 50+ members that dress in various Star Wars costumes. We asked them to please cut it down to a much smaller size as Joey is very upset around large groups of people. We also invited the grantors, Joey's grandparents, and one uncle (who is also a HUGE Star Wars fan).
Joey was very ill on the afternoon of his birthday and didn't seem at all excited about coming out. I am sure that was due to how very sick he was. We walked him slowly into the living room and had him rest on the couch.
Then Darth Vadar and two Clone Troopers presented him with a full suit of armor and several other Clone Trooper/Star Wars toys. The really tall red Trooper is his armor. :)
Joey tried very hard to be interested, but he was so nauseated that he begged to go back to his room after about 15 minutes. Before he moved back to his own bed, he said, "Thanks, guys!" It was very overwhelming to him, and I wish that we had been able to grant the wish when he was feeling much better. He just hasn't been the same this last month and a half. Things that would have absolutely thrilled him are not as fun to him. He did ask to see things later and would have his Dad hold them so he could really look at them. (He isn't strong enough to hold things anymore).
What was most fun to me was the reaction of my two younger kids and my brother. That's the reaction Joey would have when he was feeling better. I don't think they could have been more excited! They were literally shaking with excitement. The Make-A-Wish grantors also brought two baskets with toys for my younger children so they wouldn't feel left out. They were extremely generous, and I think Santa is going to take a break this year. Really, WOW!!
I am so grateful for the people that grant wishes to sick children. I remember one night, Joey spent 15 minutes drawing exactly what he wanted for his Clone Trooper despite a fever and nausea. Only a wish like that could make him want to draw again, and that's something he always loved to do.
What an amazing organization! Here's a last photo of my youngest thoroughly enjoying our visitors. :)