1 minute read
Meet Odessa
I wish to go to New York City for Christmas
Odessa, 9 cystic fibrosis
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Mere hours after she was born, Oddessa’s doctors diagnosed her with cystic fibrosis - a lung condition that makes it incredibly difficult for her to breathe properly, and often leads to persistent lung infections. To combat the symptoms, Oddessa had her first surgery when she was three days old, and now maintains a daily treatment regimen of vest therapy and breathing treatments that help increase her lung function. But that doesn’t stop her from being a force to be reckoned with. In fact, it’s only made her more determined!
Today, nine-year-old Oddessa, has a zest for life that brings love and joy to everyone she encounters. She loves playing games, listening to her favorite songs, and meeting new people. Her ability to remain so playful and optimistic is quite the feat given the trials and tribulations that this spunky girl must endure every day.
When Make-A-Wish volunteers met with Oddessa and her family to discover what her one true wish was, she knew exactly what she wanted - a trip to New York City during Christmas! “Everyone goes to New York City for Christmas!” she proclaimed.
On National Believe Day 2018, Oddessa found out her wish was coming true with a surprise reveal at Macy’s Downtown Summerlin. Complete with a snow machine, a visit from Santa and a performance by The Nutcracker ballerinas, Oddessa was treated to a true winter wonderland experience.
Soon after, Oddessa and her family flew to New York City for a trip packed with Christmas fun. They embarked on a holiday lights tour where they spotted brilliant window displays and familiar filming locations from Elf, Home Alone, and many more Christmas classics. Oddessa was dazzled by the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular in Radio City Music Hall and whizzed around the famous ice-skating rink at Rockefeller Center under the huge and stunningly decorated tree. They also took full advantage of their trip and went sightseeing to visit iconic New York landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, FAO Schwarz and Time Square.
