In 1980, the "Make-A-Wish Foundation" was founded after a little boy named Chris Greicius, realized his lifelong dream to become a police officer. Then in 1982, it was established here in Hawaii and is the 13th of 66 chapters in 50 states. Today I was invited to Caleylla Aris' birthday party at the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center. Her mother Cherry Aris, told me it was Caleylla's first birthday party since falling ill in 2008 with "acute myelogenous leukemia" which is a fast growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
I have done all sorts of sports reporting and special events, but writing this story is the hardest thing I have had to do. She is such a sweet and beautiful child. I had a chance to speak with Cherry and in talking to her, she remains very strong and holds her head high. The family is "still wishing and hoping that a miracle will come about for Caleylla" who will be 3 years old on June 17, 2010. Cherry related that they have stopped the chemotherapy because the cancer has spread throughout Caleylla's body, but she still goes in for blood transfusions as needed. If any of you have children, love them and cherish them for we never know what can happen.
Let us all pray for Caleylla and hope for that miracle. Caleylla's grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Mar and Marlita Aris, and Caleylla's father, Cris Aris flew in from Las Vegas. Also present was Cherry's son, Cyril Aris, her mother, Mrs. Felicidad Clarito, and her sister, Suzanne De Vera. Caleylla's original wish was to go to Disneyland, but due to her condition it was not recommended by her doctor. Her second wish was to have a birthday party with "Barney." Well, her wish came true today and it was awesome to see her great
big smile on the Merry-Go-Round. That picture will always remain with me. In closing, it is a very touching story and for those who want to help, you may send a donation to Cherry Aris c/o "Caleylla" at 94-467 Hene Street, Waipahu, HI 96796, checks only please.
I would like to thank Ms. Lee Henry-Chang, Program Director of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and to Volunteer Adrienne Abreu for their kokua and information about the "Make A Wish Foundation" here in Hawaii. Also, much mahalo to Robyn Chow-Hoy, Child Life Specialist at Kapiolani Children's Hospital and to Dr. Wade Kyono. God Bless and let us all pray for Caleylla. More photos "click here".
No comments:
Post a Comment