For 7-year-old Jacob, there’s no better way to spend a day than splashing and relaxing in a hot tub. Jacob was diagnosed with MPSI-Hurler Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects his development and several organ systems. He often has to travel cross-country from his Washington home for medical treatments in South Carolina. But when he discovered that his hotel in South Carolina had a pool and spa, the trips didn’t seem quite so bad.

“We could hardly get him out of that hot tub,” recalls Jacob’s mother, Melanie.

Jacob can’t communicate verbally, but when wish granters from the Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of Alaska, Montana, Northern Idaho and Washington offered to grant his heartfelt wish, Jacob’s family knew just what he wanted.

“Jacob loves being in the water, and a hot tub is something he would really enjoy as well as help ease the discomfort of his condition,” Melanie said. Jacob’s doctor agreed that having his own spa would be therapeutic and fun for Jacob. Plus, being in a hot tub is something the family could enjoy together. “We knew a hot tub wish would be something that would really make a difference in Jacob’s life,” Melanie said.

Wish granters went to work. Aqua Rec’s Swimmin’ Hole & Fireplace Shop, a Marquis Spa dealer, graciously donated the hot tub. Jacob’s wish was a milestone for Marquis Spas^® , marking the 300th wish the company has granted since becoming a Make-A-Wish Foundation sponsor in 2000.

Jacob and his family were excited to share his wish with their friends, so wish granters arranged for a big backyard party in Jacob’s honor. His favorite restaurants – Domino’s and McDonald’s – donated lunch, and guests celebrated with cake and Tootsie Pops, Jacob’s favorite treats.

Then some surprise guests arrived. Firefighters from the town’s fire department roared up to the house in their fire engines. They used their fire hoses to fill up Jacob’s hot tub in less than five minutes. Then Jacob and his friends had their turns shooting water from the high-pressure hoses. More fun with the firefighters followed, as they treated the party guests to tours and rides on the ambulance and fire engine.

As the delighted party guests said their goodbyes, the party was just beginning for Jacob – he got to step into his own spa for the very first time.

– By Kathryn Roethel

Marquis Spas is the preferred provider for Make-A-Wish^® hot tub wishes. The spa manufacturer became involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation in February 2000 when the company helped grant the wish of 17-year-old Andrea from Banks, Ore.

Andrea’s wish inspired Marquis to help more children by becoming a national supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. So far, that sponsorship has generated more than $1.6 million in spa donations and discounts for the Foundation. Marquis’ dealers from all across the United States are involved in granting wishes.

“Making a difference in the life of one child with a life-threatening medical condition is rewarding,” said Marquis Spas President John Schrenk. “The thought of making a difference in the lives of 300 children is almost emotionally overwhelming. At Marquis, we consider ourselves privileged to have the opportunity to improve these children’s lives. The thought of us adding even a few minutes of happiness to a sick child’s life is incredibly gratifying.”