Oliana's Story

photo of Oliana and her family on wish day

Waters of Hope, Comfort, and Happiness

Oliana wished to have a “giant warm bathtub with a waterfall and jets.” Water has always been more than just a necessity for 17-year-old Oliana — it’s a source of serenity and comfort. Oliana lives with a gastrointestinal disorder that requires Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) and leaves her in constant pain. She’s also legally blind and non-verbal, which makes it harder for her to express herself. But there’s one thing that always brings a spark of joy to her life: warm, moving water. From the sound of the jets to the soothing flow of bubbles, Oliana’s love for water lights up her entire being, and when she’s

Oliana's Wish to Have a “Giant Warm Bathtub with a Waterfall and Jets”

Water has always been more than just a necessity for 17-year-old Oliana — it’s a source of serenity and comfort. Oliana lives with a gastrointestinal disorder that requires Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) and leaves her in constant pain. She’s also legally blind and non-verbal, which makes it harder for her to express herself. But there’s one thing that always brings a spark of joy to her life: warm, moving water. From the sound of the jets to the soothing flow of bubbles, Oliana’s love for water lights up her entire being, and when she’s in the water, her smile says everything.

Oliana’s wish was not just a wish for relaxation, it was a wish for moments of peace and relief from the constant pain she endures. When Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas learned about her wish, we were determined to make it come true. We set out to create something truly special — an oasis of warmth and comfort that would bring her happiness every time she stepped into the water. A place where she would feel comforted and carefree in the way she had dreamed of. 

“Everyone should know how special this wish is,” she said. “It’s a difference maker for a kid who is, honestly, suffering most days and in constant pain. To see that smile on her face

Wish Mom Shannon

Shannon will never forget the day when Oliana had been crying and in pain, despite all her medications. It seemed like nothing could ease her discomfort. But on wish day, when Shannon gently placed her in the hot tub, something magical happened. In an instant, Oliana’s tears stopped. Her face lit up, and she was all smiles again. For a few moments, the pain disappeared, and she was surrounded by the warmth and soothing jets. “This is the gift of a lifetime,” Shannon said, “I would never have been able to give her something like this on my own. I can’t work the way I used to, but Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas made this dream come true for her.” 

“The magic of a wish doesn’t just last for a day or a moment — it lasts a lifetime.” shared Christina Snell, Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas Chief Mission Officer. “For Oliana, the magic of her wish isn’t just in the water or the jets. It’s in the moments of peace, joy, and relief that remind her and her family that even amidst the struggles, there is beauty, love, and hope.”

Watch this heartwarming video shared by Oliana's family.