'Down Under' Dream

"To go to Aunty Bess' house" might not sound like a big dream, but for Elijah, this visit would mean a trip halfway around the globe!

To Elijah, family means the world. He relies on his mom, dad, brother and sister for help with all kinds of daily activities. Elijah's multiple disabilities don't dampen his love of life and spending time together as a family.

Eli's mom was born in Australia, and the teen has long wanted to travel there to visit his "Aunty Bess". Planning a trip halfway around the world could be difficult for any family, but Eli's special needs made the journey seem practically impossible. His joy at finding out his Sunshine Dream was going to come true was enormous - especially because it meant going in time to be part of a family reunion down under.

Elijah's adventure included all kinds of Aussie experiences including a 'bush walk', kangaroos and koalas, and a cruise in Sydney harbour. Of course, there was also lots of special time with his beloved Aunty Bess and other relatives who had only been voices on the phone.

Mom wrote to tell us that Eli's Sunshine Dream was invaluable to her son, and that he even picked up a new favourite phrase: "Seeya, mate!"