Joe, 15 years old, KY

Wish submitted by:

Joe is a bright, funny, and outgoing young man who currently lives in a care facility due to complex medical needs. Despite the challenges he faces, Joe continues to demonstrate resilience and determination to live life as fully and independently as possible. He is focusing on developing essential life skills, specifically learning to navigate the internet safely and use email appropriately.

Joe is making great progress in learning how to safely engage online. Unfortunately, his previous iPad stopped working about a year ago, and he currently has no device to continue practicing and developing these skills. An iPad would provide Joe with more than just internet access; it would offer him the opportunity to connect with his peers, participate in educational activities, and experience what it feels like to be a typical teenager. Living in a long-term care facility can be isolating, and having the ability to connect with schoolmates and explore his interests online would mean the world to him. Joe enjoys many activities that other teens partake in and dreams of living a life that feels "normal." Supporting his wish is a way to help him not only continue learning important skills but also to remind him that he is seen, supported, and just as deserving of joy and connection as any other young person.