On Friday, April 29th, Gabe Crimeli, a grade 6 student from had his Make-A-Wish to Walt Disney World granted!
Gabe, also known as ‘IronGabe’ was diagnosed with leukemia when he was only 6 years old. For 3.5 years, he underwent numerous hospital visits, medication and chemotherapy to treat the cancer.
“I just knew that I had to go to the hospital because I wasn鈥檛 feeling good. Then next thing you know, I was in a hospital room not knowing what was going on,鈥� Gabe said.
While IronGabe was fighting to beat leukemia, he encouraged his community to donate blood to help children like him fight leukemia too. Over 600 members of his community participated!
“Our school community has been a huge support,” said Mrs. Crimeli, Gabe’s mother.
In April 2020, IronGabe and his family received the wonderful news that he was officially cancer free! Gabe also had his wish to visit Disney World granted 2 years ago through the , but since the beginning of the pandemic, international travel plans were cancelled.
On April 29th, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, along with students, staff, and Gabe’s family surprised him at his school and presented his Disney World wish! This marked the first time since the pandemic that the Foundation was able to resume its plans to grant wishes.
“We as a family are so grateful…he remembers being a normal kid going to school and being part of so many fun events that helped erase the pain and nausea with joy and excitement. And here we are, finally after a long delay, the final wish after a victorious fight,” said Mrs. Crimeli.
The HCDSB and Holy Rosary Burlington community commend IronGabe on his strength and resiliency, and wish him and his family all the very best on their upcoming trip!
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