By Chris Fischer

Sparkles and balloons of pink, purple, and gold décor brightened Redfield Dairy Queen on Sat., Feb. 1st. An energized crowd gathered as a local girl’s Wish was celebrated. When Audi walked in with her mom and sister, she was excited to see the party that had been set up for her. She wore a sparkly light blue dress, which fit in with the decor. An ice cream cake was shared. Kids colored “Happy Wish Day” cards for Audi. Special bags were gifted to Audi, and her siblings, Sterling and Axlee. There was even an appearance by Elsa and Anna of Arrendale.

Volunteers from Make-a-Wish of South Dakota and Montana, along with the Ty Eschenbaum Foundation, had enabled her Wish to be granted. They explained that families apply to Make-a-Wish. A child must be between the ages of 3 and 18, and must have a critical illness. If an application is approved, a representative meets with the child and family to find out what the Wish is. After this, the child has to wait to hear if their Wish will be granted.

What did Audi wish for? She wanted to meet Minnie, and to “fly and see the princesses.” She, her parents, sister and brother, as well as Grandma, will leave for Disney World in Florida on Feb. 16th. Everyone expressed excitement over the trip. 

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Audi will be 5 in May. Her mom described her as “bubbly and friendly.” She and her sister Axlee have cystic fibrosis. Their mom said that they can take their treatments together, and that they have been relatively well.

Per the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation site (www.cff.org), this is “a progressive, genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs.” The body’s ability to use chloride is affected, and this causes mucus to form, which can cause problems in different body systems. Medical interventions are available. “About 60% of people with CF are age 18 or older. Many people with CF can expect to live healthy, fulfilling lives into their 30s, 40s, and beyond.” the site said.

A Make-a-Wish volunteer, who preferred anonymity, emphatically said “Make sure you thank the amazing humans that made this possible.” They added “The community has been amazingly supportive.” Along with the Make-a-Wish and Ty Eschenbaum Foundation, local volunteers helped to bring things together. Namely, Jackie and Michelle at Wild Roots; and Jill and Kim from Redfield Area Chamber of Commerce were involved. Dairy Queen employees also volunteered.

Audi was happy, and gracious. She thanked everyone. “It was so nice of you guys to come.” she said. She was excited for the trip, and for the party. She wore a “big sis” necklace, which was a small reminder of the importance of family support. The greater community came together for the family.