Make-A-Wish story on Jack, who wished to become a soldier.

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JACK BECOMES HONORARY SOLDIER SHARE THIS PAGE
“The pure joy that all of
the soldiers and officers
have brought to Jack has
been an amazing gift,
something none of us
will ever forget.”
- Jack's Mother
Jack, 13
Hepatoblastoma
I wish to be a part of an army bootcamp
experience
I Wish to Be
army, bootcamp, soldier, Wilmette
Chicago and Suburban
Jack, 13, is a brave boy from Wilmette. Ever since he was young, Jack has
been fascinated by the military, including having a military-themed birthday
party when he turned six.
Not typical of many boys his age, Jack is also a cancer survivor. Jack was diagnosed with
Hepatoblastoma, liver cancer, when he was four leading his childhood to be filled with hospital visits,
treatments and two liver transplants.
With the help of Make-A-Wish
Illinois, Jack was given a chance to experience his dream of being in the army. Jack and his family were
flown out to Fort Lee, Virginia for a three day boot camp experience, where he received his own custom
uniform as an honorary warrior. The next three days were filled with great adventure, from leading a
platoon during a land navigation exercise to learning about disarming bombs; Jack was able to be fully
immersed in his wish of being in the army.
“The pure joy that all of the soldiers and officers have brought to Jack has been an amazing gift,
something none of us will ever forget. It’s been so much fun,” Jack’s mom said.
For Jack, this experience meant a lot after everything he has been through, “It’s been really awesome.
And it’s exceeded all of my expectations and more,” Jack said.
After this experience, Jack dreams of being an engineer or ordnance soldier in the Army one day.
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