Wish Stories

Four-year-old Melanee suffers from a rare malignant disease that causes extensive skin rashes and painful bone swelling. Melanee has had to endure rigorous chemotherapy and lengthy hospital stays away from her three sisters and parents.

Melanee and her family rented an SUV and embarked on the 1,300 mile road trip from their home in Plymouth, Ohio to Colorado Springs, Colorado for an unforgettable camping getaway.

Melanee and her family stayed at Mountaindale Campground in the Hideaway Cabin during their five-day vacation. The cabin was fully furnished with a loft, kitchen, and fireplace. Melanee’s mom, Lisa, commented, “This was roughing it in style.”

From beginning to end, Melanee’s wish experience provided moments and memories that will surely last a lifetime. She rode the 8.9 mile long cog railway to Pikes Peak that scales canyons and boulder fields. Melanee was ecstatic as she feasted her eyes on Colorado’s breathtaking scenery. Two of the highlights of their trip were visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Cannon City and Seven Falls in Colorado Springs.

“Words cannot describe what it felt like to see our daughter on top of the mountain after everything she has gone through,” Melanee’s parents, Lisa and Hector, wrote in a letter. “Our thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and all the supporters for helping make this a memorable trip for our four-year-old Melanee.”