Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 28 : Spring 2016 | Page 21

year-old Patience was battling an aggressive form
of cancer and was not well enough to enjoy her
wish at home. Instead, Patience’s wish ‘to have
Christmas for her sisters’ was granted for her and
her family in her room at The Aroostook Medical
Center.

help. ”When we put out the call for help, people
responded in a big way - over a hundred people,”
she concludes, helped Patience.

The day full of caroling, merriment and quality
family time brought a sparkle back in Patience’s
eye. “There was a clear resurgence in her spirit,”
Patience spent a day shopping online and purchased says Jamie. This day of celebration, albeit from
gifts for her three younger sisters and step-father. her hospital room, lifted Patience, and according
“She didn’t want to buy anything for herself,” says to Jamie, “bought her extra time.” Patience was

“I wish to have Christmas for my sisters.”
Patience, 13, Presque Isle
her Wish Granter Jamie Guerette. “That’s the kind
of person she is. Completely selfless.”
Patience’s online purchases arrived the next day
and were beautifully wrapped by volunteers. The
hospital room was transformed from its usual sterile
environment into a magical, winter wonderland.
Carolers sang Patience’s favorite holiday songs.
Buddy the Elf recited lines from the movie ‘Elf ’.
Santa joined and shared his best holiday cheer.
And most importantly, Patience was surrounded
by love, care, and attention that were imperative
during her deepest time of need.

originally believed to have only days to live. Then
there was the wish, followed by eight full weeks of
time Patience and Jamie spent together.
Patience recently lost her battling with cancer and
remains in the constant thoughts of Make-A-Wish
and the Aroostook county volunteers who cared
for her so deeply.

Editor’s Note: I was honored to play a part in bringing
about Patience’s wish and found her strength and
positive attitude to be truly inspiring. Because of
Patience, myself and many others will be attending a
training to join the ranks of Aroostook County’s wish
Jamie reflects back on Patience’s wish as she counts grantors. Thank you for showing us the way. ♥

the number of supporters who came to the call for

SPRING 2016

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