“Let me tell you about eye cancer, one minute you’re playing chess with your dad and the next minute you’re at Sick Kids getting all kinds of things done to you.” Six year-old Rachel’s diagnosis was melanoma. With a strong spirit and a big smile Rachel decided to fight the biggest battle of her young life. Rachel may look at things differently now but even with sight in only one eye, she can see more than most of us.

When Rachel was asked for her wish by wish grantors Janice and Kelly, she did not hesitate, I wish for a butterfly garden. “I love nature, butterflies and I love flowers and I just love to be in the country.”

Make-A-Wish^® with the support of Caterpillar of Canada and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association who enlisted the help of Beth Edney from Designs By The Yard, planned the most beautiful butterfly garden ever, with Rachel’s help.

In four days and with many volunteers the plans became a reality. Rachel’s garden with a rainbow water arc, butterfly mural and bike path came together with the special plants that will attract her favourite butterfly, the Monarch. “The garden was built with love” explains Beth. “People gave from their hearts and everybody jumped through hoops to make it happen.” Many companies and businesses contributed everything from the concrete to the plants. It was truly inspiring to see this garden grow.

Rachel said that the butterfly garden does not erase the memories of all she’s been through, but it does replace them. She loves her garden, it’s even better than she ever thought it could be, “I love it and I can’t wait until I see my first monarch butterfly”

Rachel’s mom Dana thanked everyone at the garden party in Rachel’s honour. “You’ve given us brand new happy memories of smiles and laughter and selflessness, not to mention, flowers and butterflies.” “Thank you for replacing the worst experience in our lives with the best thing that’s ever happened to this family.”

Make-A-Wish would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in this and all our special wishes. THANK YOU!

More Entertainment and Fantasy Wishes

1. Kim Chattaway:

After meeting Rachel and seeing the incredible results of granting a Childs wish. I have also granted Rachel’s other wish to own her own puppy! I donated a puppy to this wonderful cause. I recommend to every one to get involved any way you can!