Magical Playscape Adventure

Make-A-Wish® Connecticut granted Jariel Santiago’s wish of a playscape swing-set adventure.

Although you wouldn’t know it from his vibrant and tireless charisma, Jariel has been battling a neuromuscular disorder for almost half his lifetime. This six-year-old LOVES staying active though.

Jariel does not let his disorder define him, and he continues to impress his family with his massive amounts of energy and willingness to play, play, play! This lively little boy even has a prized shed full of bicycles, scooters and toy cars which keep him busy and entertained all day long.

As the degenerative nature of his condition causes physical decline over time, Jariel needs to keep his core muscles strong and mobile. His three older brothers aid in the round-the-clock playtime as well, and their relationship has deepened even further since Jariel’s wish was granted.

When Jariel wished for his backyard to be transformed into a playscape adventure, his parents’ faces lit up, as they knew this wish was going to give all of them a better quality of life. Jariel’s mom even said, “He is on the playscape from the time he wakes up until the time he goes to bed... And if we let him, he would eat dinner out there too!”

The playscape swing-set also includes handicap accessible elements so that Jariel can enjoy his wish well into the future.

Jariel’s wish provided him and his family with a sense of hope and overall optimism. Although his illness does progress fast, Jariel’s own backyard playscape adventure will contribute to his genuine happiness and physical well-being, giving him countless hours of fun-filled days ahead!

Every child deserves a childhood. Wishes like Jariel’s are happening and need YOU now more than ever. Although we have had to postpone nearly 150 wishes due to the current global health crisis, we are innovating rapidly to grant wishes in new and safe ways across the state - wishes like room makeovers, pools, shopping sprees, and playscapes like Jariel’s. Your gift can deliver hope and strength to a child in your community who needs a wish today. Donate now at ct.wish.org.

ABOUT MAKE-A-WISH CONNECTICUT

Make-A-Wish® Connecticut creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child's wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child's treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness. Together, generous donors, supporters, staff and volunteers across the state currently grant nearly 250 wishes a year. Since 1986, Make-A-Wish Connecticut has granted more than 3,400 wishes to local children. For more information about Make-A-Wish Connecticut, visit ct.wish.org.