Hunter P.

Age: 6
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

Favorite Character: Buzz Lightyear
Favorite Pirate: Jack Sparrow
Favorite Singer: Alvin & the Chipmunks
Favorite Song: Boom Boom Pow
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite TV Show: Spongebob Squarepants
Favorite Movie: Star Wars 1-6
Favorite Color: Green
Sport/Hobby: Wii

Hunter - Magical Moment 2010 - Hotel Arrival

Stacey Reading Hunter Family Letter - at ESPN Club

Hunter P. - at ESPN Club

Letter to Hunter

Dear Hunter,

There are few words that can express how much your dad and I love you. You bring so much joy to our lives. This trip has given you a chance to not have to worry about doctors’ vists and shots, but to be with kids that don’t judge you based on what you can’t do. Even though there are times you wish you didn’t have arthritis, it is the arthritis that makes you who you are. The most loveable, huggable, sweet kid, willing to hand out hugs an kisses to anyone needing them. You make friends with everyone you meet.

To see the smile on your face when you got to meet Darth Vader is one thing I will never forget. How you took everything in and wanted to experience everything you could. I hope this trip has showed you that you are capable of doing anything. I would not give up all the bad things we go through if that meant you would be a “normal” kid. You are our normal kid and we love you just the way you are.

If I could do anything, it would be to take away the pain you feel on a daily basis. But even that pain has a purpose, in the way you have learned to treat others. Your dad and I count our blessings everyday that we get to call you our son. We will be here with you on this journey to get better and will do everything in our power to make sure that happens. You keep being sweet, loveable Hunter, no matter what.

Love,
Mom