Every year nearly 1,200 families will learn their child has been diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition in Illinois alone. Like all children they have big wishes, and the Walk & Run for Wishes event this weekend aims to grant them.
In his bedroom sporting a Hulk character mask ten year-old Cael Samuelson isn't getting ready to go trick-or-treating. But Saturday he'll don a costume, whether it's Chucky or Buzz Lightyear, in the Walk & Run for Wishes to benefit Make-A-Wish Illinois. And he'll be walking as a survivor of brain cancer.
"I didn't like it when I was sick," said Cael.
At just five years old doctors discovered Cael's size-of-a-hacky-sack brain tumor. Then, after two surgeries and weeks of radiation treatment, Cael and his family got to take a break from it all. They spent a week at Walt Disney World through the Make-A-Wish program.
"Truly a vacation that was all about the family and celebrating Cael, and we were so grateful for the opportunity to experience something like that," said Pam Samuelson, Cael's mother.
Cael hopped on horseback, went to Medieval Times, and met all the characters. "I didn't like kissing a lot and Minnie and Mickey Mouse were kissing," added Cael.
"Having fun doing what they want to do is just awesome," said his older brother Colin.
Having such a great experience inspired the family to give back. They're among dozens raising donations ahead of the costumed 5K walk and fun run, hoping to help make more wishes come true.
"This isn't a last wish, it's a wish to give them a break," said Pam Samuelson.
The goal for the inaugural event in Moline is to raise $20,000. That would grant wishes for four children faced with life-threatening conditions. Kids who, like Cael, have big hearts, big dreams, and big wishes. "If they have fun that would be good for them," added Cael, "fun is what kids like to do."
Online registration for the Walk & Run for Wishes closes at 9 a.m. Friday but you can register at the event Saturday morning at the Green Valley Sports Complex in Moline. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Organizers hope participants celebrate the magical and imaginative spirit that is Make-A-Wish by dressing up in costume.
For more information about participating or donating to the program Click Here.
