SydStrong works with our partner, Nik’s WIsh, to notify the leukemia patient that their “Wish is granted”. The wish reveal is done in person if possible but sometimes done by the patient’s family or the hospital staff. We are ecstatic when we can be a part of the reveal but equally as excited to be able to grant the SydSmile.
Each reveal is also a beginning. . .
There is no guarantee that this wish will actually be granted. So, it is a time for celebration of life and prayers for continued recovery.
SydSmiles have been revealed for these young adults. Please keep them in your prayers so that we can help them make their wishes come true!
ESTEBAN
We were blessed to reveal our first SydSmile of 2025 in Pittsburg, Texas. Esteban is fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia and had a 2nd bone marrow transplant in March.
Esteban’s story: Before being diagnosed, I lived a normal high school life. I played sports and thought about trade jobs. I had AML previously but went into remission. I started community college so I can be an EMT/paramedic. Then, my AML relapsed and I had to have a second stem cell transplant. I would love to return to my “normal” after treatment.
Esteban would like to take his family on vacation to Hawaii. SydStrong is happy to partner with Nik’s wish to make Estaban’s smile a reality. Esteban and his family are planning to travel to Hawaii at the end of 2025.
ANGELO (AJ)
We have been blessed to meet Angelo (or AJ) and his parents from Durango, CO as his SydSmile was revealed in November. AJ has Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia.
AJ’s Story:
Aj was diagnosed in February of 2025 with AML Leukemia at 18 years old. AJ is a rock climber and was attending college and working a part time job. AJ was flourishing. In January 2025 he noticed that he was getting headaches and tired very easily in daily activities. During an eye exam, his eye doctor saw the classic signs of Leukemia in his eyes. AJ and his father were flown from Durango, CO to Denver to Children’s Hospital in February. Chemotherapy started and he was hospitalized for each round of treatment, looking at a total of 5 rounds. Each round was 4 to 6 weeks long that he spent in the hospital.
AJ would love to be connected with the Detroit Lions. Ideally it would be to attend the 2026 NFL draft or be on the sidelines for a Detroit Lions football game.
AJ will be attending the December 21st Detroit Lions game as a guest of the Detroit Lions and Dan Skipper, Detroit Lions offensive lineman.
ZAID
Zaid’s words:
“After my diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and my second bone marrow transplant, my life became very different. I spend much of my time in the hospital, going through treatments, and trying to stay strong. There are days that are really hard, but I keep fighting and hope for better days.”
“I have always dreamed of visiting New York City because I have seen it in movies and imagined its incredible energy and beauty. I also hope to explore Central Park, walk through Times Square, and feel the vibrant life of the city.”
Zaid’s wish was revealed in December. Zaid will be traveling to New York City with his family on 2026.