Wish Launches Aspiring Astronaut to Out of this World Happiness
HOUSTON, Texas (September 2023): Gabriel was waiting to see the planetarium show at Louisiana Museum of Art and Science, unknowingly becoming the star attraction. The presenter asked Gabriel to join her in front of the audience. It was a touching moment when she announced that Kids Wish Network was making his dream come true, sending him on a wish trip to Space Center Houston! The museum further celebrated Gabriel with lunch from his favorite restaurant, and gifted him a NASA jacket to further inspire his aspirations of being an astronaut. Gabriel’s wish was underway, preparing his launch to happiness.
Kids Wish Network flew Gabriel and his family to Houston for his wish that orbited around his love for space travel. One of the most memorable experiences was visiting Space Center Houston. He met and had lunch with retired United States Air Force Colonel and NASA astronaut Kevin Ford. “Gabriel was very excited to meet a real, live astronaut,” said his mom Rhonda. Gabriel was so inquisitive about his experiences, especially how it felt to walk in outer space.
Gabriel also took part in an astronaut presentation, demonstrating how they live in space. He got to ride a special bike and felt special being chosen to participate. “Hugo let me help with the presentation, and also put me in a sleeping bag like astronauts use,” recalled Gabriel with a smile. Another highlight was taking the tram tour, and exploring the astronaut training center that showcased parts of spacecrafts and people building things. “There was so much going on,” said Gabriel. He also loved the virtual reality simulation, giving him the feeling of flying in space.
Another highlight for Gabriel was visiting the Houston Zoo, he especially loved the sea lions. Admission was courtesy of the attraction.
Dining was also out of this world. The chef at McCormick and Schmick’s surprised him a fancy dessert, and Main Kitchen made him an extraordinary Earth shaped cake to celebrate his wish, and gifted him a Milwaukee Bucks T-shirt, hat and backpack. The family’s meals were courtesy of the restaurants. They also enjoyed Cyclone Anaya’s Tex-Mex Kitchen who donated a gift card for the family.
Gabriel’s family stayed at the swanky LeMeridien Houston Downtown who graciously provided luxurious accommodations and complimentary breakfast for the family.
“All of Gabriel’s dreams were met and beyond,” said his mom. “He’s been very happy since his trip. He has a positive outlook, and it gave him a refresh.”
Gabriel has sickle cell disease, and frequently experiences pain crisis. He currently sees six doctors, takes medications, and undergoes pain management. His pain crisis episodes typically turn into week-long hospitalizations.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Gabriel without the help of Space Center Houston, LeMeridien Houston Downtown, McCormick and Schmick’s downtown, Main Kitchen at JW Marriot Houston Downtown, The Houston Zoo, Cyclone Anaya’s Tex Mex Kitchen, Louisiana Museum of Art and Science, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs.
Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.
Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.
If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.