Waikiki Beach is Wish Kid’s Real-life Postcard Perfect Paradise
Honolulu, Hawaii – Golden sand, turquoise water, palm fronds swaying in the breeze, exotic flowers, and a tapestry of lush green landscapes sounds like a dream. For Jacob, this postcardesque paradise would soon be the backdrop for his real-life wish. Kids Wish Network planned a spectacular tropical getaway for Jacob, and it wasn’t long before he was saying aloha to Hawaii!
Kids Wish Network flew Jacob’s family to Honolulu, where they stayed right on Waikiki Beach at the oceanfront Twin Fin Hotel. It was wondrous getting to see Waikiki’s iconic sand and surf from their room’s balcony. They also enjoyed a daily breakfast on the hotel’s rooftop lanai, starting off each day soaking up the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head. Their beautiful accommodations were generously provided by the Twin Fin Hotel.
One of their most memorable experiences was the Waikiki Starlight Luau, being immersed in the culture of the Pacific Islands. “The luau was exciting with music, dancing, fire throwers and fire dancers,” said his mom Joy. “Jacob was absolutely mesmerized.” Then a fire thrower came over and gifted him the woven headband that he wore during the show. He placed it on Jacob’s head and proclaimed him Jacob Chief. They also enjoyed a bountiful buffet feast. It was a magical night of festivities, ambience and feeling of Ohana. The Waikiki Starlight Luau graciously donated his family’s admission.
All of his dining was eventful. “He loves going to restaurants, so this was right up his alley,” said his mom. “He usually wants my phone to watch cartoons while we're waiting on our food, but he didn’t do that on his wish. There was always something new going on, and he didn’t want to miss it.” They tasted the exotic flavors of the island with oceanside dining at Plumeria Beach House, and Hula Grill, with picturesque views of Diamond Head. Tropical vibes continued at Cheeseburger in Paradise with its tiki décor and scenic beach location, and at Zippy’s with its traditional Hawaiian comfort food and local island fare. Everywhere they went, Jacob tried foods he never had before, and discovered new favorites. The restaurants embraced them with the aloha spirit, and graciously donated their meals. “We were well cared for, and getting that kind of attention was very special for him,” said his mom. Meals were also provided by Domino’s Pizza.
Other activities included Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats, taking in a clear view of aquatic life, live reefs, and one of Hawaii’s popular shipwrecks. They also explored the Honolulu Zoo which features a wide variety of exotic animals. Their adventure-filled outings were courtesy of the attractions.
The wish was a full circle moment for Jacob’s mom. As a Kids Wish Network donor, she read many heartfelt stories about its wish kids having their dreams come true. An inquiry about kids in need of its services caught Joy’s attention, and she reached out about Jacob. It wasn’t long before their own special wish journey began. “The wish exceeded our expectations, and made it possible to do something we could not,” said his mom. “We’re so appreciative for what you’ve done for us.”
When Jacob was born, he had hypoxia due to his body not having enough oxygen, and was on a breathing machine and J-tube for feeding. He spent the first 4 months of his life in the NICU. He was fostered at 9 months old, and lovingly adopted by his foster family when he was 3. It was at this age that he was also diagnosed with Sanfilippo syndrome, a rare inherited condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, causing progressive damage to the body and brain. He has a full-time nurse to help with his daily needs.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Jacob without the help of Twin Fin Hotel, Waikiki Starlight Luau, Plumeria Beach House, Hula Grill, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Zippy’s, Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats, Honolulu Zoo, Domino’s Pizza, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.
Wish Sponsors:
Twin Fin Hotel: Waikiki Beach Hotel | The Twin Fin Hotel Waikiki
FB: https://www.facebook.com/thetwinfinhotel/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetwinfinwaikiki/
Waikiki Starlight Luau: Waikiki Starlight Luau | Honolulu Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village
FB: https://www.facebook.com/HiltonHawaiianVillage
Plumeria Beach House: Plumeria Beach House - Dining in Honolulu | he Kahala Hotel Resort
FB: https://www.facebook.com/KahalaHotelandResort
IG: https://www.instagram.com/kahala_resort/
Hula Grill: Hula Grill Waikiki
FB: https://www.facebook.com/HulaGrillWaikiki/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/hulagrillwaikiki/
Cheeseburger in Paradise: Menus | Cheeseburger in Paradise in Honolulu, HI
Zippy’s: Makiki - Zippyʻs Restaurants
FB: https://www.facebook.com/zippys
IG: https://www.instagram.com/zippys/
Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats: Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats | Glass Bottom Boat Oahu Tours
FB: https://www.facebook.com/hawaiiglassbottomboats
IG: https://www.instagram.com/hawaiiglassbottomboat/
Honolulu Zoo: Honolulu Zoo: Hawaii Indigenous Species | Best Family Experience
FB: https://facebook.com/honoluluzoo
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thehonoluluzoo/
Domino’s Pizza: Pizza Delivery & Carryout, Pasta, Wings & More | Domino's
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Dominos/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/dominos/?hl=en
Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs.
Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.