8th September 2023
Austin's Wish
Ten year old Austin lives with a Ventricular Septal defect, a heart condition that makes it hard for him to breathe, run and play.
Austin has always been fascinated with the Armed Forces and after a slow start thanks to Covid, we were thrilled to grant his surprise Wish to join the Navy for the day.
Austin's Dad, Simon wrote the below. This writing really sums up the power of a Wish.
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Well what can we say,
Dreams do come true!
When Austin was asked what his one wish was, he presented such a challenge to the team at WYWUS. He wanted above everything else, to go on an Aircraft Carrier!
Of course WYWUS rose to the challenge!
Trying to coordinate between times when the ship was in port and when Austin was well enough to travel and not in hospital took such amazing planning and logistics!
We stayed in a hotel in near Portsmouth where the boys were delighted by the bath robes and sliders that were supplied. We went to Portsmouth the next day, visited a few museums and Austin said it was amazing, (still not aware of what tomorrow's surprise would be).
We went to the historic Dock Yard and met Warrant Officer Reggie, who arranged to spend the day with us, (Austin still didn't know). We were issued VIP passes, went into the Mary Rose Centre where we were greeted by all staff, had a private tour and everyone made sure both Austin and his young brother Oscar had a wonderful experience. On leaving, Austin was given presents, watching his face and hearing him say this is the best.
We then went to lunch, not any lunch but to the Second Sea Lord private accommodation. We were greeted with red carpet, soft drinks, milkshakes a tour round the magnificent building and our own private pianist.
Then the food!!
Wowzers, not just a nibble, I don't know where to start, burgers, hotdogs, chips, chicken strips, such a feast, and then pudding!
Once we had finished eating, Granny asked Austin if he enjoying his day, to which he said "The best ever"
Granny then asked Austin what his 1 wish would be if he could do anything, "To see a aircraft carrier"
So Granny said I think Reggie has something to tell you then.
Reggie explained how not only were we going to look at The Queen Elizabeth but we were going on board.
Austin punched the air and shouted YEH!!
On leaving the building Austin was given a hamper full of treats, t-shirts, Teddy’s, lots of things, and we all received a block of handmade chocolate, we left the building to the music of, "for he's a jolly good sailor".
When we arrived at Queen Elizabeth we met Billy, who presented Austin with a captain cap and gave us a tour everywhere!
Austin got to meet and have his picture taken with the Captain, he got to sit on one of the vehicles and operate the water cannon. He got to walk to the edge of the slope where jets take off, he got to sit in captain chair, he went to the on board hospital and shop, he literally went everywhere and listened to every detail.
He was exhausted but wouldn't give in as he was in his absolute dream. He couldn't speak most of the time, he was star struck and mesmerized.
When we went to say goodbye the boys got more gifts, then when saying goodbye to Reggie, Austin was presented with a Navy suit, not a replica but an actual suit made specially with his name on.
The following day he kept asking us about his day, I think he wanted to check it wasn't a dream.
He didn't let go of his Teddy.
He had the best day ever, it certainly was Austin's dream come true xx
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