Nathan was born a sports enthusiast. He can recite stats and figures about his favorite WWE wrestler, John Cena, or give you a play-by-play on either of his favorite Utah Jazz basketball players, Gordon Hayword or Rudy Gobert. Despite having cystic fibrosis, Nathan loves to play basketball as well, so when presented with the opportunity to make a wish, this 14-year-old knew exactly what he wanted. Nathan wished to have Utah Jazz season tickets.
In a single season, Nathan attended more games than he had attended in his entire life. Nathan’s mom said that attending the games was a fun way to get out and spend time together as a family. She explained that Nathan’s wish doubled as a break for the entire family, as it allowed for extended periods of fun during an otherwise rough year of medical treatments. Often, the Utah Jazz would enhance the wish experience by extending invitations for the family to eat at the Lexus Club or offering them upgraded seats at certain games.
Nathan’s most memorable part of his wish experience was his proclamation, or wish reveal, where his wish granters threw a huge party for his friends and family. After covering Nathan in silly string, Jazz Bear (the team’s mascot) presented Nathan with his tickets and helped him celebrate his wish being granted.
Today, Nathan is looking forward to beginning ninth grade, and although he has had a few hospital visits since his wish was granted, his mom reports that he is feeling much better overall.
