Gabe noticed a lump on his neck, a lump that didn’t feel like it should be there. After multiple tests and doctor visits with no concrete answers, the decision was made to operate and remove the mass. It was revealed that Gabe had an aggressive form of lymphoma.

This frightening discovery led to months of aggressive chemotherapy treatments, long hospital stays, hair and weight loss, and other types of painful and scary experiences that children shouldn’t need to face. However, almost from the moment he learned about his life-threatening illness, Gabe approached this challenge like he would an opponent on the baseball field, soccer pitch or sheet of ice. He would emerge victorious.

Gabe’s competitiveness and love of sports also played a key role in his wish. He knew almost instantly upon meeting with the Make-A-Wish® Minnesota team that his wish would be sports-related. It didn’t take much longer for him to wish to go to Super Bowl 50 in San Francisco. Looking forward to his wish helped fuel his desire to fight cancer. It offered hope in the face of a terrible illness.

Gabe was officially granted his wish at the headquarters of the Minnesota Vikings, his favorite football team. Surrounded by family, friends and Make-A-Wish volunteers, and the Vikings, Gabe was thrilled to hear this amazing news.

“Gabe’s Super Bowl wish was perfect, with the fabulous Make-A-Wish folks coordinating all aspects of the trip and making it truly memorable.” -Gabe’s family

He visited multiple sites around San Francisco with his family, met current and former NFL players at different events, and attended Super Bowl 50.

According to his family, Gabe will remember his wish forever and he has become a strong advocate for both Make-A-Wish and cancer research organizations. He now knows the power of a wish and will continue working with Make-A-Wish to help other kids feel that same power.

“Make-A-Wish brought hope to Gabe and our family during a terrifying period in our lives. We will forever be thankful to everyone that helped Gabe’s wish come true and encourage everyone to help with this fantastic organization in any way they can.” – Christy & Tim, Gabe’s parents