WISHING WELL
WINTER EDITION 2014
YOU GAVE AIDEN THE WISH OF A LIFETIME
On World Wish Day, five-year-old Aiden captured the hearts of Australians
when his wish to find Nemo came true – all thanks to you.
Aiden loves the water but hadn’t been able to swim while
going through tough treatment for neuroblastoma.
“Altogether, it was 20 months of treatment with five
months spent in hospital, and absolutely no swimming
or getting dirty,” said Aiden’s dad, Jeremy.
His favourite film, Finding Nemo, helped to cheer him
up during many long hours spent in hospital.
“I think the fact that it was under water always fascinated
him. He would look at the surface of the water and ask,
‘what's under the water?’” remembered Jeremy.
Jeremy says knowing his wish was coming true was
a huge boost for Aiden.
“Aiden counted down the days until his wish came true.
Each morning he would wake up asking if it was the day
he got to go on his adventure. The promise of his wish
helped give him hope and keep him strong through
some difficult times.”
And when it finally did arrive, your support meant
Aiden’s wish didn’t disappoint. His big day included
a Cairns-wide scavenger hunt to find Nemo. On the
way, he looked for clues at the Cairns tropical zoo, was
cheered on by locals in a street parade, and even got
his clues delivered by some famous faces! Aiden, who
loves all things fast, also got to ride in a helicopter and
a huge, armoured police vehicle in his search.
Aiden was clearly thrilled, calling it the “best day,”
even before he got to the main event.
The day ended with Aiden snorkelling on the Great
Barrier Reef – with great success!
“I just found Nemo, and his dad!” Aiden exclaimed
when he surfaced.
Thanks to your generous support, Aiden’s wish is sure to
give him and his family memories that will last forever.
World Wish Day was a wonderful success all
around Australia, with fundraising events in local
communities, online and through our business
partners. Thanks to everyone who helped
make it a day to remember.
We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.