Strength on the Slopes: Levi’s Wish and Colorado Gives Day

Photo: Siri Raitto

Just weeks after having his appendix removed, 7-year-old Levi’s world turned upside down – he was diagnosed with cancer. The news came fast, and so did the treatment plan: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. The grueling process took a toll on Levi, robbing him of the energy to run, jump and play like he used to. His siblings felt the strain too, as hospital visits and long absences kept them apart. “It was intense for the entire family,” said Elizabeth, Levi’s mom.

But Levi never lost his spark. Through the toughest days, he stayed curious and determined, holding tight to the hope of brighter days ahead. That hope grew when he learned he would receive a wish from Make-A-Wish. Levi imagined a snowy escape and skiing down the mountains with his family by his side. Levi’s wish brought him to the iconic slopes of Keystone Resort, where Make-A-Wish Colorado made sure every detail of his wish was perfect.

“He was really looking forward to skiing because he wasn’t able to fully be himself during chemo and radiation,” Elizabeth said. “When he was in recovery mode, he started gaining his strength again. So, he was very excited about going skiing.” When Levi’s wish came true, his excitement soared. On the slopes, his family watched him reclaim the confidence cancer had taken. “To see him going down the slope, you saw strength in him,” said Eli, Levi’s dad. “You saw resilience. He bounced back from the whole situation.”

Photo: Siri Raitto

Levi’s wish was more than a ski trip – it was a turning point. “It felt like I could breathe again,” Elizabeth said. “It felt like I had something to look forward to … not just going to the hospital, not just keeping my son alive, but to make something fun and a great memory.” Elizabeth added, “When Make-A-Wish came into our lives, it turned the page from all the hard work of doctor’s visits to just keeping him alive. Now we can go have some fun. To be together…it’s a lasting memory.”

You can help grant life-changing wishes for kids like Levi by supporting Make-A-Wish Colorado this Colorado Gives Day on Tuesday, December 9, with early giving starting November 1. It’s the state’s largest 24-hour giving movement — and one of the most successful in the nation. In 2024 alone, Coloradans raised more than $54 million to support local nonprofits. Make your gift to Make-A-Wish Colorado today. 

Your gift to Make-A-Wish Colorado helps grant wishes to children battling critical illnesses—not only those who live in Colorado, but also those who dream of coming here. Every donation helps create moments of joy, strength and healing.

Give the gift of hope. Support Make-A-Wish Colorado this Colorado Gives Day.