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Hobart’s Macey’s Make-A-Wish granted after brain cancer battle

Young Tasmanian Macey was ready for a new challenge having battled a rare brain cancer and entering remission. Make-A-Wish was there to grant it.

Tina (Grandma), Macey, Layla (Sister), Kika (Mum). 8-year-old Macey, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Tina (Grandma), Macey, Layla (Sister), Kika (Mum). 8-year-old Macey, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied

Years in hospital undergoing treatment for a rare brain tumour has only fed Macey’s hunger for adventure.

The Hobart eight-year-old finally had the opportunity to unleash her love for the outdoors in an unforgettable Queensland holiday after Make-A-Wish granted her ultimate wish.

Macey made special memories alongside her mum Kika, sister Layla and grandmother Tina in a trip that included wildlife encounters at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and camping in a motorhome at award-winning BIG4 holiday parks.

8-year-old Macey from Hobart, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
8-year-old Macey from Hobart, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Sister Layla, mum Kika, grandma Tina and Macey at Hartley’s Crocodile Park. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Sister Layla, mum Kika, grandma Tina and Macey at Hartley’s Crocodile Park. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied

Her mum Kika said Macey had always loved being outside, even prior to her diagnosis at two-years-old.

“She loves going to the beach to find crabs and go fishing,” she said.

“Most of our time is spent outside or doing creative things.”

The activities also included kayaking, which Macey’s mum said had built her daughter’s confidence because she was really “in her element”.

8-year-old Macey is now in remission. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
8-year-old Macey is now in remission. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Macey was diagnosed with rare brain cancer aged 2-years-old. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Macey was diagnosed with rare brain cancer aged 2-years-old. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied

The Tasmanian has faced tough challenges in her young live.

She was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour just after her second birthday and went on to suffer a stroke and seizures.

After undergoing surgery, Macey relearned basic skills over months of rehabilitation.

Macey underwent a long rehabilitation. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
Macey underwent a long rehabilitation. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied

Now in remission, she got to celebrate the milestone with her sister Layla, who has been by her side every step of the way.

“When Macey was in hospital, Layla did so much for her,” Kika said.

“She always had her sister’s need in the back of her mind.

“This wish meant so much to both of them. We don’t go on trips very often, so having this time away together was incredibly special.”

A majority of families granted a wish say it brings hope and positivity to their child and strengthens their child’s wellbeing, according to a Make-A-Wish survey from last year.

The charity relies on public support, receiving no government funding.

8-year-old Macey from Hobart, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied
8-year-old Macey from Hobart, who has been battling a rare brain cancer, has her wish granted of visiting an adventure park in Queensland. Picture: Make-A-Wish/Supplied

Make-A-Wish chief executive Sally Bateman said the funds raised enable children like Macey to experience “something truly extraordinary”.

“This tax season is a meaningful opportunity for Australians to help grant more wishes that make a lasting impact,” she said.

Donations can be made at makeawish.org.au

molly.appleton@news.com.au

Originally published as Hobart’s Macey’s Make-A-Wish granted after brain cancer battle

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Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/tasmania/hobarts-maceys-makeawish-granted-after-brain-cancer-battle/news-story/bb17a545bc39c41657422799775416a9