James
A day in the life of most children can be full of adventure, of imagination, playing with friends and going to school. But for a child with a life-threatening medical condition, their days can often be filled with Doctor’s offices, scary medical procedures, poking and prodding. GUTS Pittsburgh benefiting Make-A-Wish kids aims to relive those children of some of their fears and offer them a chance to focus on the future — to focus on brighter tomorrows. Last year, we raised over $6,500 and granted the wishes of two area children, Ryder and James. Learn about James and his Hawaiian adventure this past April.
Thirteen-year old James was diagnosed with end stage renal disease but he does not let that stop him from being a teenage boy. He loves Star Wars and making/editing his own videos. He also loves to be outdoors and traveling to new places. When the volunteers asked James what his wish would be, he had no problem saying he wanted to go to the land of surf and sand, Hawaii.
In April, James and his family said Aloha to Hawaii. James was very interested in all the activities the island has to offer. He had already been snorkeling so he was excited to pump it up a bit and learn how to scuba dive. He and his family were also very interested to learn how to hang ten and catch a wave Hawaiian style with some surf lessons. Another important thing to James was getting to explore a rainforest on a hike. James wanted to go out and experience someplace new and he certainly did it in a big way.
James and his family returned home with awesome memories of the sun and their time together. He got to cross experiences off his bucket list and escape the stresses of doctors for the relaxing island life. James can now feel refreshed and ready to splash back into life.
GUTS Pittsburgh returns to Penn Brewery, Saturday, October 15 and we need your help to grant the wishes of more area children. How can you get involved? Register to carve today! We’re also looking for sponsors, donations and volunteers. Visit gutspittsburgh.com to learn more about granting wishes in our community.
