Published interview Feb week 2, 2003

We got this call from the Children’s WISH Foundation. The lady was very nice. She said someone from the Alberta Children’s Hospital had contacted her and suggested that we could use a WISH and that it was urgent. It had been a difficult year. Our daughter Jessica was now under palliative care and we had chosen to keep her at home. The gentle voice on the other end of the phone asked, "Where would Jessica like to go." I couldn’t think. My mind was still in disbelief that we were at this point already. I remembered we had taken her to see the dolphins in Edmonton and she loved it. I asked if that would be okay. The woman replied, "Why not Florida." I declined because I didn’t think Jess could make the trip. The voice was so comforting. She said we could do what ever we would like and they would take care of the planning and the finances. I was overwhelmed. As soon as I hung up I called my husband, Mark. His reaction stunned me. He said, "Why not Florida." That was all I needed. I called the foundation back and so began the adventure.

There were visits with the family to make sure all of Jessica’s needs were met. They sent Jessica, Andrea, Jamie, Mark and me to swim at Discovery Cove in Florida. I could write a book on the adventure. We saw everything there was to see. We cuddled dolphins, swam with stingrays, met Mickey Mouse, went out for dinner and ate popcorn shrimp, bought T-shirts and swam in the pool at the hotel. What an experience. Jessica seemed to gain strength. We would take her "home" for a nap in the afternoon while the others kids swam. Then it was off to discover new worlds and meet more wonderful, compassionate people. Our trip spanned seven days. The memories are eternal. It was a respite from reality. The pain wasn’t as great while we were there and when we arrived home; Jessica had stories to tell each of her lunchtime visitors.

The My Child concerts are in support of The Children’s WISH Foundation Of Canada. It is an annual event on the Thursday before Valentine’s Day; the first one was just a month after Jessica passed on, January 10^th, 2001. When I was planning the first show, she was still with us. I still feel like she’s with me. It’s a way for me to support the foundation but it’s also a way for me to remember Jessica. She loved music and she loved her family.

The concerts have become a professional variety show and silent auctions. The best Alberta has to offer come to support this cause and the community is included in that group. Jan Porter-Hirsche has taken over the silent auction portion. If you have a craft item or service you would like to donate please call her at 946-0240. Tickets are available at Air-Alta Insurance, BEST Photo and Towerlane florist in Airdrie or The Rockyview IDA in Crossfield.

I hope to see everyone out Feb 13^th, 2003 for our 3^rd My Child concert. Jessica would be proud of what we have done together.

-Theresa Wasden