ALBANY, Ore. – A young boy’s dream is turning into reality, bringing hope and joy to his family and community. Thanks to Make-A-Wish Oregon and Subaru of Albany, 9-year-old Cash Thorstad is heading to Hawaii after battling cancer.
Cash was diagnosed with cancer just before Christmas. After enduring months of treatment, he is now in remission. On Wednesday, surrounded by friends, family, and community members at Subaru of Albany, Cash learned that his wish to visit Hawaii is coming true.
“We’ve been through the hard part and now it’s something to celebrate,” said Shea Thorstad, Cash’s father. “It’s people acting in kindness and selflessness. Definitely restores your faith in humanity, we’re not as divisive as you might think and everyone wants to help.”
Cash’s love for the ocean, especially sea turtles, inspired his wish. He will travel to Hawaii this summer with his parents and little brother Mack, ready to swim, explore, and enjoy the sunshine.
“He loves the ocean,” said Ashleigh Thorstad, Cash’s mother. “We took a big trip last summer and we couldn’t get him out of the ocean.”
The trip to Hawaii, specifically Maui, was made possible through a partnership between Make-A-Wish Oregon and Subaru of Albany. This initiative is part of a national effort to grant life-changing wishes for children battling critical illnesses.
Cash’s story is a testament to the power of community support and the impact of kindness. His journey to Hawaii marks a new chapter of joy and healing for him and his family.
