I wish to go to Great Wolf Lodge

Luan prefers the wide-open spaces and sights of the outdoors over being inside. The restless  five-year-old is irresistibly drawn to water, whether he’s swimming in a pool, splashing in a lake, or enjoying bath time. Luan, who is non-verbal and communicates through sign language, is fascinated by musical instruments, including the piano, and regularly craves chicken nuggets, French fries and gummy candy.

Luan lives with Down’s syndrome, a genetic disorder that can lead to other medical challenges including congenital heart defects, gastrointestinal problems, hearing issues and leukemia. At two years old, Luan was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. This type of leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, and Luan’s treatment included six months of aggressive chemotherapy, several surgical procedures, maintenance chemotherapy and regular blood work.

“Luan is now cancer-free and has been in remission for two and a half years now,” said his parents, Nadia and Leon. They added, “Luan’s body managed to bounce back after the treatment, and he is now back to being a healthy five-year-old boy.”

Selecting a heartfelt wish is half the fun for many wish kids. Luan’s love of water, adventure and new experiences inspired his wish to visit Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Alongside his older sister Merique, Luan enjoyed the wave pool, took in the go-karts and played virtual reality games throughout the wish trip. “We had a great time together, having fun and bonding as a family,” said Nadia. “We all came back from the wish relaxed and having a more positive outlook on life – the whole Make-A-Wish experience really had an amazing impact on all our lives, especially Luan’s.”

Hope is essential for children with critical illnesses, and its life-changing power is unlocked when wishes like Luan’s are granted. Together, we can continue to transform lives, one wish at a time.