Jacob's Wish Story

Jacob and his parents, Jennifer and Nicholas, had their whole world turned upside down when they learned of his diagnosis. At only nine months old, Jacob was diagnosed with a nervous system disorder (severe epilepsy). For twelve years, his parents and doctors tried numerous methods and medications to reduce Jacob's seizures. He had up to 60 seizures a day and it felt like nothing they tried was a long-term solution. Jacob was eventually referred for brain surgery to separate the left and right parts of his brain. After an invasive 13-hour operation and weeks of healing, the surgery has produced major improvements.

Today, fourteen-year-old Jacob only has three or less seizures a day. Jacob loves being outdoors, playing with diggers at the beach, and helping others. He is always happy and has the most infectious smile. "You can be in a bad mood, but as soon as you see Jacob, you automatically smile," his mom Jennifer shared. Jacob also loves to use his imagination. As long as his parents can remember, Jacob has admired firefighters. He often plays firefighter and wears a diving mask pretending it is his oxygen mask. When he learned he was eligible for a wish, his parents knew a once-in-a-lifetime experience would fill Jacob with endless joy and hope. In time, Jacob's most heartfelt wish became clear: he wanted to help people by battling fires, just as his idols do.

Jacob was surprised to learn that his dream of being a firefighter for a day was coming true. To start the day, Jacob and his parents were picked up from their hotel in a firetruck. From there, he was immersed in an action-packed schedule of heated training at a local firefighter's school, including putting out a few controlled fires. "The dumpster was on fire and spreading quickly!” Jacob shared. “So, we answered the call and I put it out with my team. I was a hero!"

His parents both agreed that this wasn't just a wish granted; it was a dream come true and a memory he'll cherish forever. "I still get emotional thinking about Jacob's wish,” Jennifer shared. “His passion and admiration for firefighters is stronger than ever."