“ I wished to go on the American Orient Express ”
Q: Why did you choose this wish?
A: As soon as I was told about receiving a wish, I knew it would have to do with trains. I chose this wish because I have always loved trains so much. I wanted to ride on an elegant passenger train out west (I was born in Colorado) but they are all slowly going away. The American Orient Express wish exceeded even my wildest dreams.
Brendan received first class treatment on the American Orient Express and was even giving the opportunity to drive the train himself!
Q: What was one of your favorite memories from the wish?
A: The best memory from my trip was when they actually stopped the train and came to get me. They pulled me off and put me in the engine at the front of the train. Then the engineer told me it was my turn to drive the train. So I got to drive the train for about 185 miles across northern New Mexico into Arizona.
Q: What's your medical diagnosis now?
A: It has been about 6 years since my brain surgery in December 2001. I have been doing great but still see the doctor every six months and must get an annual MRI. There are no problems at all, just a lot of shots and medicine.
Q: What are some of the highlights of your life now?
A: One highlight is that I am graduating in June 2008 from high school and am planning for college. The profession that I am considering is in the audio/visual communications field. It is something that I like doing, working with sound and lights, I currently work the sound booth for my church. I have been interested in this for a long time and am intrigued by everything from radio and television to stage productions.
Q: What did your wish mean to you?
A: It meant more to me than anything. This wish showed me what I can do and gave me encouragement to succeed in what I want to do. This wish was great because it got my mind off the medication and the worry from the brain tumor. I totally lost track of what I was going through…it was amazing.
Today, Brendan is a senior in high school and busy planning for college in the fall.
Q: What do you want to tell people about the Make-A-Wish Foundation?
A: The Make-A-Wish Foundation is wonderful beyond any kid's dream. It does so much for you, it helps you, it can pull you away from what you are dealing with, and it can pull a family back together again.
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Great Wish! WOW! Way to go, Make-A-Wish!
- Jayr 09/30/2008 12:42 -
I think this is a wonderful story! I did not even know about the American Orient Express until I met Brendan and read this story. I also didn't realize what a wonderful, positive difference the Make-A-Wish Foundation makes in the lives of young people. Thank God for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and thank God for Brendan.
- Susan 09/08/2008 19:40 -
Brendan, you are such an inspiration. I look at you and realize one can do anything they want if the attitude is right. I'm proud of you and the progress you are making. I wish only the best for you and your family. You're the best!
- Jayme 10/21/2008 22:06 -
Brendan,
The world is blessed to have someone as inspiring, courageous and talented as you. Your story was very touching. You are truly an inspiration. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You are amazing.
Love,
Alyse
- Alyse 10/21/2008 17:40 -
your story touched my heart and i loved it god bless you and happy holidays
- sarah 12/22/2008 8:19 -
Hey Brendan....just read your update and can't BELIEVE you are already graduating High School! Congratulations --- and say hello to your Dad for us all here at MAW National.
- MaryJane 05/04/2010 16:47 -
I am so jealous of you. I just love trains. Speaking of trains, California is going to get a high-speed rail system. I want to be at the ribbon cutting ceremony for it.
- Sam 08/05/2010 18:55 -
awesome organization
- asia 12/20/2010 9:20 -
A truely inspirational story. God bless you and God Bless Make a wish foundation.
- Chloe 02/09/2011 11:21 -
I think that's a wonderful wish and i hope your doing well
- Christine Hatfield 12/20/2011 6:03
