There aren’t really words to describe the joy of a child finding out that their biggest wish will come true. So today, we want to show you:

This is the moment that 7-year-old James learned that his wish to become a pirate would be granted. He had always loved pirates, and after he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, his trusty pirate hat became a source of strength.

For five months, James received weekly chemotherapy treatments that created a domino effect of negative side effects that resulted in trips to the emergency department nearly every week. But James' parents and his older siblings were there to see him through it, and they always brought his pirate hat to cheer him up.

After treatment, James received another scan to track the status of the tumor. Unfortunately, the doctors found the growth had increased and that the medication was ineffective. Surgical removal of the tumor was not possible, but James still had to undergo an invasive surgery just to determine the next treatment options.

After the surgery, James learned that his wish to become a pirate would be granted. When it came time for the big adventure, James – dressed and ready to go in his pirate attire – was greeted by two pirates who led him on an exclusive treasure hunt around an island. They handed him a metal detector, and he found the treasure!

After returning home, a scan revealed the new oral medication was working and the tumor had decreased in size. James has been able to have his port removed and gets an IV medicine every two weeks in addition to taking the oral meds. 

Alongside the joy that James felt on his wish day, it gave him something positive to think about during the toughest moments of his treatment journey – helping him persevere in the fight against his tumor. And none of this would have been possible without the generosity of supporters like you.

So please, help us provide more kids like James with the strength, hope and joy of a wish experience and make a donation today.

Thank you,

Make-A-Wish®