Twelve-year-old Zooey has always loved performing, singing, and acting; she has even appeared in both a movie and a TV show. But behind her bright smile is a medical journey few can imagine. Zooey’s life has been marked by more than 50 fractures, spinal compression injuries, elbow and knee dislocations, scoliosis, dental issues, and ongoing medical treatments that shape her every day.
At just 11 weeks old, a routine bath revealed something was wrong. X-rays confirmed Zooey had a broken collarbone and further showed numerous other fractures in various stages of healing. Initially, her parents faced suspicion, as medical staff struggled to understand the causes of her fractures. But, with persistence, the support of their family doctor, and the expertise of a specialist, Zooey was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder at five and a half months old.
“On the day of her diagnosis, we felt relief, incredible fear, worry for our daughter, vindication for withstanding what we’d endured, sadness, but also love, care and support,” said Zooey’s mom, Monika. From that day forward, a dedicated care team began treatments that continue today, including regular IV infusions, surgeries, physiotherapy, and X-rays to monitor her progress. Despite these challenges, Zooey approaches life with joy and resilience. She modifies daily activities, using special utensils to feed herself and a wheelchair for safety in crowded spaces.
According to Monika, Zooey’s prescribed wish became a vital part of her treatment journey. “Zooey’s wish trip came at a significant time as she had been facing increasing medical challenges. More tests, more pokes, more hospital visits, more surgeries, more upset from being ‘different’ than her friends, and more isolation,” shared Monika. Zooey’s wish to go to her favourite theme park wasn’t about rides or thrills, it was about time with her family. After years of medical appointments, surgeries and procedures, her wish offered a week to simply be a kid, laugh, explore, and create memories.
In January, with the parks still sparkling with holiday decorations, Zooey, and her family traveled to her favourite theme park. From the moment Zooey arrived she felt like a star. She reveled in every moment: meeting princesses, enjoying gourmet experiences (her favourite being the “grey stuff” at Be Our Guest), shopping, and laughing with her family.
For Zooey, the trip was healing in countless ways. In a year filled with challenges it offered a pause from the medical routines that dominate her life and a chance to feel empowered.
Zooey’s wish reminded everyone that sometimes, the best medicine isn’t found in a bottle, but in the moments we’re able to spend with our loved ones, and the memories we make today to give us the strength we need for tomorrow.
Hear from Zooey
About Wishes Are Medicine
Wishes Are Medicine. They are a vital part of a child’s treatment journey, helping restore strength, hope, and resilience when it’s needed most. Research shows that a prescribed wish can improve adherence to treatment, reduce emergency room visits, and deliver lasting health benefits. With the help of generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and partners across the country, we are committed to granting the wish of every eligible child.
