Syd’s Smiles

Sydney was diagnosed with Leukemia (AML) at 19 – too old to receive a Make-a-Wish. However, after turning 21 she had a “wish” granted when she and a friend went to Atlanta for a Harry Styles concert. That trip was not only fun, but helped her feel like a “real person” who was able to travel and enjoy life. Soon after that trip, Sydney relapsed. Because of the joy brought to Sydney by that trip, SydStrong is focused on bringing smiles to young adults (AYA) with Leukemia. SydStrong has partnered with the Nikolas Ritschel Foundation (NRF) to grant wishes through its Nik’s Wish program.

For more information about Nik’s Wish, visit https://nikolasritschelfoundation.org/
WIth the founder of Nik’s WIsh
Karen gets her wish granted
Karen with family
Karen’s family
Decor for wish lunch
Karen

We were blessed to grant our first wish in Alabama over Labor Day weekend! Together with Nik’s Wish, Karen and her family will be taking a trip to the beach. Karen is fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia and had a bone marrow transplant in the Spring of 2024. Please keep her and her wonderful family in your prayers.

Karen’s WIsh: Before the diagnosis I was a normal young adult. I had just moved out on my own and had my very first place. I was independent and was working to support myself. I enjoyed hanging out with my friends, my family and going to church. I really enjoyed having the time with my sisters, going to our favorite restaurants and just riding around.
What Nik’s wish are you thinking about and why? A trip to the beach with my family. Going through this illness has made me appreciate my family and how precious life is.
Karen passed away in January 2025 just before going on her trip to the beach in California. We send our condolences to her wonderful family.