Wish Lauren, a twelve year old young lady from South Dakota, was diagnosed with localized Ewing’s Sarcoma, a type of bone cancer usually found in children and young adults, affecting her left pelvic bone. Since June 29, 2007, Lauren has spent many months undergoing radiation and chemotherapy. Lauren’s place of retreat is her grandparents’ cabin in Okoboji, Iowa, where her family spends almost every weekend. It was no surprise when Wishes and More learned that Lauren’s wish revolved around her haven; her number one wish was for a boat for tubing, skiing, and kneeboarding on the blue waters of Okoboji.
Two Wishes & More volunteers, along with Oak Hill Marina, presented Lauren her new boat, a Maxum 1800 SR3, on Monday, June 2 in Okoboji. Lauren’s biggest dream had come true, and the smile on her face showed her excitement. The excite ment was heightened when she was surprised with bold letters reading “Lauren’s Wish” on the back of the boat. Along with the boat, Lauren was provided with an entire package to further enjoy her days in Okoboji. The boat package included shirts, a tube, and flotation devices.
That afternoon, the family was able to go for a boat ride and tubing, thrilling Lauren. Before taking off, however, Captain Ron Baack, of Oak Hill Marina, gave a demonstration regarding proper boat operation out on the water. Lauren and her family have already enjoyed some warm, sunny days spent tubing and kneeboarding with the new watercraft, and anticipate many more weekends enjoying time on the boat together.
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