Wish Stories
Yapee’s Happy Day
FEBRUARY 11, 2006
by Maria-Cielini Reyes
His name is Yapee, and true to his happy name, the three year old is one playful and active kid. He is drawn to anything new—be it a place, a toy or a gadget. And those fifteen-second rides you find in arcades fascinate him beyond lollipop and candy bribes. He is a bit shy when it comes to strangers. He would wiggle away from simple questions, running off to a new venture of bright things that catch his eye.
No one would’ve guessed that this "malikot" toddler has been undergoing chemotherapy for two long years. Just the thought of Leukemia is already such a big load to anyone, even so for it to be carried by such small shoulders. Make-A-Wish team arranged to grant any wish that would make him feel extra special. Thus, we planned one fun-filled, happy Yapee day!
Yapee’s big wish is to have a brand new television set, where he can watch his favorite shows like Spongebob Squarepants, Dora, and of course, Pinoy Big Brother. And so, we gave him one—a big package wrapped in colorful paper. We encouraged him to heartily open the gigantic box. We also wrapped little tokens like magazines, Lego sets, toys and snacks, until the excited child is surrounded by gifts just like on a Christmas morning.
That was just the beginning.
Inspired by his fascination to new things and arcade rides, we took Yapee and his family where the real magic is—Enchanted Kingdom! With the generosity of the park managers and EK staff, the unassuming child and his family were given a wonderfully free treat—one whole day of fun at the theme park!
They were warmly greeted at the entrance by the colorful park mascots. A million pictures were taken as we joined them treat after treat, and ride after ride. Towards the end of the exhilarating day, Yapee would still wiggle around from one great treat to the next, his smile and laugh more open then. This time he would easily approach us still shy but with this kind face filled with happiness.
The joy and fulfillment felt was simply priceless.
Throughout the entire experience, Yapee’s family would thank us over and over again for the gifts and the entire experience. We deeply felt the joy and appreciation more, and realized how wonderful it was to give to those who truly deserve it and to those who do not expect so.
