Teen Wish for Hawaiian Trip Now a Reality

For about as long as she can remember, 17-year-old Amy Dilbeck has wanted to go to Hawaii. But just a year ago, the prospect of her ever visiting the island paradise seemed remote.

That is because Amy had osteogenic sarcoma--a particularly aggressive and life-threatening form of cancer that attacks the bone. But now, thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Amy and her family will be enjoying the balmy sea breezes and tropical beauty of the emerald archipelago while on a seven-day cruise.

“I’ve always loved the whole paradise atmosphere of the tropics,” the bubbly Santa Paula High School junior said. “And now, the idea of getting to spend it with my whole family is great.”

Organized and paid for by the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Tri-Counties, Amy’s adventure will include stops on four of the eight Hawaiian islands.

Departing today accompanied by her parents, Nancy and Joe, and siblings Cassie, 14, and Jake, 12, Amy will have the week to kayak in the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge on the island of Kauai, sail to a hidden reef off the coast of the Big Island, and snorkel in the crystal waters amid schools of neon-colored fish.

But her real goal on the trip is more simple. “I want to get a tan and learn to do the hula,” she said.

Founded in 1984, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Tri-Counties fulfills the wishes of children suffering from life-threatening illnesses. The organization, funded through local community contributions, serves kids living in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

Last year, the local organization helped 40 youths realize their greatest dream, and this year they expect to help 46.

Amy, who was diagnosed with cancer in March, 1995, spent almost a year battling the disease. In addition to the months spent undergoing intensive chemotherapy treatment, she had surgery to remove the cancer that had attacked her right femur bone. Doctors removed almost four inches of the femur and part of her knee joint and replaced it with plastic and metal implants.

“When I’d be really upset and sick, my mom and dad would remind me of the trip and all the things we were going to do,” she said. “That always made me feel better inside.”

And now, just two years after her terrifying diagnosis, doctors have given Amy a clean bill of health, though they warn that the cancer could return.

Through it all though, Amy said the experience has brought her family much closer. She said she is looking forward to spending time in Hawaii with those who matter most.

“In a way, it’s made our family better because you really realize what’s important to you,” she said. “It’ll mean a lot for all of us to spend time together and just have fun.”