For Kynslee McDaniel, a recent family trip to the Bahamas was more than just a vacation; it was a rare respite from a challenging medical reality. The Statesboro resident, who battles a debilitating genetic bone disorder, recently set sail on a “Special Dream” cruise granted by the Sunshine Foundation.
Kynslee lives with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets. The genetic condition stems from mutations on the X chromosome that cause critically low phosphate levels in the blood. Consequently, those diagnosed often suffer from soft, weak bones, stunted growth, and various skeletal deformities.
The trip was designed to provide a break from the daily struggles associated with the disorder. Kynslee’s mother expressed gratitude for the experience, noting the impact it had on her daughter.
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“I just wanted to thank our sponsor and the Sunshine Foundation again for granting Kynslee a dream trip,” Kynslee’s mother said in a statement. “She had an absolutely amazing time on the cruise!”
The getaway was made possible through funding from Rite Aid, which partnered with the Sunshine Foundation to fulfill the request.
Founded in 1976, the Sunshine Foundation occupies a specific niche in the charitable sector. While some major wish-granting organizations restrict eligibility to children with life-threatening or critical diagnoses, the Sunshine Foundation focuses on children living with lifelong, severe chronic illnesses and conditions.
The organization serves children with a wide range of diagnoses, including spina bifida, cerebral palsy, severe epilepsy, sickle cell disease, and level 3 severe autism, as well as those suffering from trauma due to abuse. To date, the non-profit reports it has assisted more than 43,280 children across the United States.
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According to the foundation, the most frequent request is a “Magical Dream” trip to central Florida attractions like Disney World, Legoland, and Universal Studios, with families staying at the organization’s Dream Village. However, they also fulfill “Special Dreams” similar to Kynslee’s, which can range from shopping sprees and adaptive tricycles to family trips and swimming pools.
The Sunshine Foundation relies on private donations and corporate partnerships to operate. The group currently holds a 100% score on Charity Navigator and an “A” rating from CharityWatch.
For more information on the organization’s work or eligibility requirements, the public can visit www.sunshinefoundation.org.
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