Elias

Elias struggles with a genetic condition that has adverse effects on his whole body, including his ability to eat or speak. He’s battled this severe condition every day for the past 18 years and requires round the clock care, shared by two nurses, but he’s also enjoyed many happy moments with his loving family. As a single mom, his mother endlessly supports and dotes on her beautiful son. He often has surgeries and procedures to alleviate pain and manage his serious condition, and his wish began during a particularly difficult time. Elias seemed very happy to see our volunteers when they met him and his mother spoke on his behalf.  She told us that she felt he would enjoy a relaxing and fun retreat at a resort in northern Minnesota – something she would not be able to do for him on her own! We assured her that we would give her the best resort we could find and we can’t thank the team at Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake enough for jumping onboard to be a part of this wish and for welcoming Elias with open arms!  The staff made many accommodations to help support him and his mom during the trip with two accessible rooms for the family and his nurse.  They did everything possible to make this an extraordinary experience, right down to moving an extra refrigerator into his room to accommodate his nutrition and many medications. The caring Madden’s team also arranged some amazing activities for Elias to enhance his amazing week up north. He enjoyed a boat ride in honor of his father, caught a few fish, visited the petting zoo at Camp Courage, shot a bow & arrow, and simply enjoyed the splendid Fall weather with his adoring Mom. Thanks to Madden’s for this wish-come-true!