Dreams Come True
Throughout our history, we’ve been inspired by people that we’ve been able to help live out their perfect dream.
Here are a few stories of Dreams Come True. Click on each title to be inspired.
Mark loves being in Mountains. He’s always marveled at how he could be in one spot and take vistas offering calm waters, majestic peaks, glorious blue sky. This was a source of wonder and solitude..
Mark, his wife Grace, and their daughter Kayla 2 days at the Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, in Alberta. Being in the mountain setting with his family, brought fond memories of previous trips they’ve shared and given them the chance to meaningfully connect and take in the moments together as they had so many times prior to Mark’s diagnosis.
Thank you to Chateau Lake Louise for your generous hospitality.
David and his sister Theresa had a special bond, speaking with each other every day despite the distance between them. His dream was to reunite with her in person and share time together in Hamilton. Thanks to another incredible collaboration with Give A Mile, this dream became a reality!
Not only did Theresa make the journey to Hamilton from Newfoundland, but David’s son and stepdaughter also travelled from Sault Ste. Marie to meet their aunt for the first time, turning this visit into an unforgettable family reunion.
Reflecting on the experience, Theresa shared: “This dream meant so much to David…to have his family and chosen family together to celebrate the love they all share for him. In his words, three wonderful dreams were fulfilled in one. You truly made David’s dream come true. Thank you so very much.”
Special thank you to Give A Mile for helping us make David’s dream come true!
Liz always had a love and strong connection with horses, so it was fitting that her dream was to be out in nature and ride a horse one more time. Liz, along with her good friend Carol, spent the day together riding horses and ended their day together with a nice dinner. Very special thank you to the staff of Blue Rein Ranch Counselling & Animal Assisted Therapy for the care and attention given to Liz in making her dream come true!
David’s dream was a short getaway to Toronto with his wife Rachel and their daughter Addisyn. Their fun-filled weekend included a visit to the CN Tower, the Ontario Science Centre, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. As an added bonus, we also sent David and his family to see a Toronto Blue Jays’ game!
Rachel reached out to us and let us know that David’s trip was a wonderful time, and that the family loved every part of the dream, especially the aquarium and the CN Tower. She shared: “Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for making this all possible for us! We have made some amazing memories that we will never forget and could not have done it without your help!”
Special thanks to the CN Tower company, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, and the Ontario Science Centre for donating passes; Jays Care Foundation for the baseball tickets and signed jersey; and, the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel for a discounted hotel room!
It’s been Kat’s dream to ‘defy gravity’ since she saw the musical Wicked on The Tony Awards in 2004. Those around her, especially those that know her well, know how much Wicked has impacted her life over the years – from the songs to watching performance videos online, it was her escape and allowed her to be immersed into another world. You can imagine Kat’s excitement when it was finally coming back to Toronto on tour.
Oneday Dreams helped make Kat’s wildest dream come true. Kat and her best friend Megan visited the Princess of Wales Theatre to watch the musical, and as an added surprise, she went backstage after the show to see the Emerald City behind the scenes. She even had a nice visit with Glinda herself, Austen Bohmer. Kat’s dream experience also included a hotel stay downtown Toronto, merchandise from the show, and dinner for her and Megan.
After her dream, Kat sent us the following message: “Thank you for taking the time to listen to the people who apply, treating them with kindness and respect, and giving them hope.”
Special thank you to Kat for writing her own caption for this dream post 🙂
Shannon always had a love of nature, especially being near the water. Her dream was for a weekend getaway in the Muskoka region with her closest friends, son, and mom. Oneday Dreams arranged for Shannon and her guests to spend a weekend at a beautiful sandy lakefront cottage. They lounged around the fire pit and hot tub, took in incredible views of the scenic landscape, and shared many laughs and memories.
After her dream experience, Shannon said: “I had such a wonderful time at the beachfront cottage! Spending time with my family and friends meant so much to me, especially in such a beautiful and natural environment in Muskoka. Bonds became closer and the love and support touched my heart so deeply. We made great memories that I can take with me and hold forever. I can’t thank you angels and your organization enough for making this happen for me. God bless!”
Mike and his son Ryan had a special Saturday night tradition together – cheering on the Toronto Maple Leafs while they watched Hockey Night in Canada. Mike always dreamt of taking Ryan to see a live game, but tragically, Ryan died in 2012. This made Mike’s request especially meaningful; he wanted to attend a game in honour and memory of Ryan. Together with his loved ones Megan and Lisa, and with the help of Oneday Dreams, Mike attended Game 4 of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins playoff series.
Following their trip, Lisa shared this message with us: “We can’t thank you enough for the opportunity you gave us to go to a Leafs game. It was so memorable and will be cherished well after Mike is gone. Meg and I saw the sparkle in his eyes just to be able to do this and we thank you for the bottom of our hearts.”
Maria’s dream was to celebrate her 91st birthday with a buffet dinner and birthday cake, surrounded by her greatest love and joy: her children and grandchildren. To add to the excitement, Maria’s granddaughter was getting married that same weekend so this dream included a big celebration of both milestones!
We decorated the hall in purple, complete with fresh flower centrepieces, a picturesque archway, and a cake that said “Happy Birthday Nonna” to recognize the role that Maria loved the most. The entire event was photographed by Oneday Dreams’ own Morgan Cantagallo. Thank you to the Giovanni Caboto Club for being generous hosts for the party!
Special thank you to WFCU Credit Union for making Maria’s 91st birthday one to be remembered. Their incredible donation helped make this entire dream come true!
John dreamt of cheering for his life-long favourite hockey team, the Toronto Maple’s Leafs, in their home at Scotiabank Arena for the very first time. Oneday Dreams provided John and his family four tickets to the game, a beautiful hotel room for the night, and some spending money for their trip to the big city! Not only did they get to attend a playoff game, but they also met Captain Crunch himself, Wendel Clarke! With the incredible support of Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, John also received a signed jersey from Auston Matthews! Following his dream, John’s wife shared, “it was amazing and a great memory for our boys to keep forever no matter how much time they have left with their dad.”
Special thank you to The Toldo Foundation, whose generous donation helped bring John’s dream to life!
Danny’s dream was to travel from Alberta back to his hometown, Catalina, Newfoundland, with his wife Lisa, daughters Kaitlin and Jenessa, and granddaughters Eden and Elise. During his trip, Danny was able to reconnect with family and childhood friends and visit the places where he grew up. While in town, Danny and his family enjoyed stunning views of the Catalina Harbour while they stayed at Gracie Joe’s Place. Many thanks to Kristy, owner of Gracie Joe’s Place, for their generous donation.
Danny’s dream was fulfilled through partnership with Give a Mile; a registered charity in Canada and the United States that offers flights to connect people in palliative or critical care with loved ones. Give a Mile graciously covered the airfare for both Danny and Lisa.
Paul’s dream was to gather with his friends and family to cheer on his favourite hockey team, the Edmonton Oilers. Oneday Dreams arranged for a limousine ride around Saskatoon so the party could see the sunset and the river; with a final stop at a special private watch party at the Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel. Prior to the game, the family enjoyed a delicious meal at the Scarlet Craft Kitchen. Then, not only did they get to cheer on the team, but his family were provided official jerseys and Paul received a signed jersey and personal video from Oilers goalie, Stuart Skinner. Many thanks to Living Skies Limousine for donating the ride, the Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel for donated and discounted rooms, and the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation for donating the signed jersey and personal video. Let’s Go Oilers!
Phillippe’s dream was to take an epic family trip to be remembered! Along with his mother, wife, and two children, Phillippe travelled from New Brunswick to Alberta to stay in Lake Louise and take in the incredible views of Banff National Park. Special thanks to the Lake Louise Inn for their generous donation of food vouchers, the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino for donating beautiful hotel rooms, and the Banff Visitor Centre for the Xplorer booklets and dog tags for Phillippe and his family!
Following his dream, Phillippe shared the following with us: I’d like to sincerely thank OneDay Dreams, from the bottom of my heart, for granting this amazing opportunity for my kids, wife and mother to have one last meaningful trip with me. I’m very grateful for everything that your organization is doing for adults living with terminal illnesses. It’s very noble work and rest assured I’ll do everything I can to promote your organization to the fullest of its merits. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
The holiday tradition in Normand’s family included gathering together to play cards and board games, open gifts, and enjoy a delicious turkey dinner with all of the trimmings. His dream was to celebrate Christmas with his wife Rosemarie, joined by their four children and their spouses, four grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Oneday Dreams supplied the family with gift cards to cover the costs of their holiday meal and Christmas presents for the entire family. When asked what his favourite moments from the day were, Normand stated it was “having the family together for a family feast, saying grace together, and seeing the adult children and grandchildren together with smiles on their faces.” We’re honoured to have been able to make the holidays brighter for Normand and his family.
Aquilino is a huge fan of the Toronto Raptors. Him and his family would gather around and watch the Raptors games even when he was in the hospital. Aquilino’s dream was to receive an official Raptors jersey that he could wear when he watches the games. With the help of the MLSE and the Toronto Raptors we were able to not only give an official Raptors Jersey but a signed one from his favourite player Spicy P, Pascal Siakam. All of us at Oneday will join Aquilino in cheering on the Raptors this upcoming season.
Karen’s dream was to visit her elderly parents in British Columbia, but for the last four years, Covid and a diagnosis in 2019 had made it impossible. Hailing from Lethbridge, AB, Karen, 65, reached out to Oneday Dreams, expressing her heartfelt desire to travel to B.C. with her brother, who resides in Calgary. Their long-awaited reunion finally came true, and for two wonderful days, they savored precious moments together, rekindling cherished family ties. A special thanks to @coasthotels for providing a pair of lovely rooms.
Debra’s dream was to have a Mother Daughters Getaway-Spa Weekend at Niagara on the Lake. Debra and her daughters stayed at the Prince of Wales Hotel at Niagara on the Lake. The package included full breakfast and three course dinner. They each indulged in spa treatments, with manicures, pedicures, hair and scalp treatment and foot reflexology. They ended the trip with a guided horse drawn carriage ride, exploring the rich history, majestic homes and peaceful scenery.
After their weekend, Debra’s Daughter told us, ‘I am so incredibly thankful for the chance to spend a couple of days relaxing and spending time with my sister and my mom. Away from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. We’ve enjoyed amazing spa treatments, gourmet meals, beautiful scenery and walks in the sunshine’.
Although she was born with a disability that left her entire right-hand side of her body smaller than her left, Penny achieved a 32-year career supporting and caring for individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities. Her disability never inhibited her strong work ethic and desire to help. For three decades, she helped her students live their best lives, guiding them to independence and providing them with educational opportunities they may have never received elsewhere. But outside of work, Penny was a lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan. Whenever the Leafs played in a televised game, Penny was their number one cheerleader. And like many sports fans, she had a favourite player: “The Magician” Mitch Marner. She absolutely adored him and when Marner was on the ice, doing his magic, the entire neighbourhood could hear Penny cheering him on. “That’s my boy! Go Leafs, Go!” Having her hockey hero pay tribute to her was like winning the Stanley Cup, her long-time friend Shelley told Oneday Dreams. “What a way for her to leave this world, as a recognized Toronto Maple Leafs champion,” Shelley said. So, when Marner sent Penny a video message, the tears flowed. The moment was captured on video by Penny’s brother-in-law. Her reaction, laying in a hospital bed, was one of complete satisfaction. Beaming, she simply said, “OH, MY GOD!” “(She) had us all in tears, she was so excited,” Shelley said. Oneday Dreams also presented Penny with an official Toronto Maple Leafs Mitch Marner jersey, which is what Penny wore when she was laid to rest. “Thanking you again (Oneday Dreams) for making Penny’s dream come true,” Shelley said. “We all feel she was waiting for that video prior to moving on to her next life.”
When Carroll delicately broached the subject of a Oneday Dream with her husband Frank, she wasn’t sure what his reaction would be. Frank, 60, had been given a terminal diagnosis by his doctor in September 2022 and Carroll wanted to give her husband a memory of a special night they could both cherish forever. Having quit her job to care for Frank “and make his life comfortable,” Carroll says finances were tight. “It took a few months to talk to him about your foundation,” she told Oneday Dreams. But by reaching out to Oneday Dreams, Carroll was able to give Frank an amazing local dream close to their St. Catharine’s, Ontario home. Indeed, Frank was receptive to Carroll’s inquiry. He wanted a room with a view to the wondrous Niagara Falls, to swim in the pool, and enjoy dinner and a show. It was a simple dream, but one that would allow them to spend a night free of worries.
“I am grateful for anything good that comes our way,” Carroll wrote in her application. Oneday Dreams was able to give the couple a beautiful day and evening at Sheridan Fallsview Hotel. They also enjoyed the Greg Frewin Magic Show and
Dinner, supplied by the Greg Frewin Theatre company.
“Frank and I just want to thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts,”
Carroll wrote following their night of dreams. “I will definitely spread the word out for people to donate to your foundation as it’s something that is so needed with terminally ill adults. This means the world to us. Much love to you and all the people who work with you. With great appreciation and gratitude to you, love Carroll.”
The vows “in sickness and in health” were very profound for Wayne, whose dream was to marry his beautiful fiancé Judy. On February 5th, 2023, Wayne and Judy were married in their home. They were surrounded by friends and family, and the event was livestreamed for those who could not attend. We were able to make this special dream come true with the help of some incredible vendors in the Windsor-Essex area. Cakeface Mobile Makeup&Hair Artistry provided hair and makeup services. Little House of Cupcakes, Armando’s, and Tim Horton’s supplied food, snacks, and beverages. The house was beautifully decorated with floral arrangements from Essex Flower Basket. Dynamic Sound DJ Service provided the music for the celebration. The day was captured by Ciera Kathleen Photography .
Stephanie’s love for her family is truly unending. Stephanie’s dream was a small viewing party for her and her family to watch her family’s favourite hockey team, the Edmonton Oilers, and a special video from her favourite player, Connor McDavid.
We decorated Stephanie’s entertainment room with Oilers-coloured decor and balloons, and provided charcuterie from Chow With Aaron. We also made sure the family was dressed appropriated with Oilers sweaters with a special Connor McDavid jersey for Stephanie. There’s nothing like a loving family rivalry over hockey teams, so we made sure to give Stephanie’s son a Montreal Canadiens jersey, too. To top the night off, Stephanie received a very special video from the one and only Connor McDavid himself. Connor thanked her and the boys for being fans while keeping them in his thoughts before the big game.
Tony is a big fan of harness racing and wanted to spend an evening having dinner with his family while watching the races at Woodbine – Mohawk Park. Tony and his family had a wonderful dinner at the racetrack and were met with few surprises for the evening courtesy of the folks at Mohawk and the Ontario Harness Horse Association. A race in the race program was named in Tony’s honour and featured in all of the programs. Tony and his family also had their photo taken with the winning horse and jockey for Tony’s special race. Tony was also able to meet one of his favorite drivers, Jody Jamieson and chat about his passion for horse racing.
Silvana dreamed of enjoying a special weekend away with her family. On Saturday, September 10th, Silvana, her son, and his girlfriend made their first stop at the Toronto Zoo where they enjoyed a sentimental trip that resembled the days when Silvana would take her son as a little boy. Silvana then travelled to Niagara Falls for her second stop, where she and her extended family stayed in beautiful suites at the Fallsview Resort and Casino overlooking the falls before enjoying a decadent meal at the Keg. Silvana’s family is the most important part of her life; they have been tremendous supporters throughout her cancer journey. It was our pleasure helping to create a weekend full of happiness and quality time with those who matter the most.
Part of this dream was made possible through the generous donations of dinner and hotel rooms provided by The Keg and Fallsview Casino Resort.
Nancy dreamed of throwing a backyard party for her entire family. On August 20th, Nancy was the super host! Her backyard party was complete with an event tent, a catered meal, a cake and cupcakes, and a bouncy castle for the children. Nancy’s favourite colour is orange and she loves flowers, so of course we had to make sure to send some beautiful orange arrangements to help decorate. The entire day was captured by kat baranowski photography so the family can have lasting memories of the dream that came true.
Antonella was a dedicated fan of Scottish-Canadian country music artist, Johnny Reid. Not only did she have fond memories of attending his concerts with family and friends, but now, in some of her most challenging days, his music provided her a sense of comfort and peace. Antonella dreamed of personally connecting with Mr. Reid, and her cousin Carm and her best friend Angela were on a mission to make that happen. With the support of Mr. Reid and his amazing team, Oneday Dreams was able to deliver a personal video message directly from Johnny himself. Surrounded by her closest loved ones, Antonella watched as Johnny sent her his love and well-wishes and even sang her a song. As Antonella’s cousin Carm eloquently stated, this was Antonella’s time to feel the love and warmth she had given to so many of her family members and friends. We’re honoured and proud to be able to fulfill this dream!
Luigi was an excellent student in the midst of completing his Master’s Degree when he learned about his terminal diagnosis. With the help of the University of Windsor, Luigi was able to have his own private graduation ceremony where he was presented his Master’s Degree and given a small celebration with family and loved ones before his passing. Luigi was able to live the moment he had always dreamed about with the ones closest to him.
Scott was a lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan, and made sure to share that passion with his family. His dream was to attend a live game at the Scotiabank Arena. The wonderful people at Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment made it happen! Scott and his family not only watched the game, but received a tour of the arena and met the team as well!
Caroline was a huge Marianas Trench fan and told us that their music got her through the toughest times in her life.
The band answered our call and offered to do a livestream private acoustic session for Caroline from their studio.
Tragically, Caroline passed away the night before the concert. The band posted Caroline’s story on their Facebook and the love and support for Caroline’s loved ones flowed in from all around the world.
Michael travelled all over to watch Shania Twain. His dream was to be able to listen to Shania’s upcoming album. Shania and her team made it happen and Michael was able to enjoy listening to “Now” weeks before its public release. He even got a personal message of support from the Queen of Country Pop herself!
Randy was a life-long Toronto Maple Leafs fan who always wanted to see a game. Once again, the great people at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment pulled through and helped us make Randy’s dream come true. Randy and his family were able to travel to Niagara Falls, Ontario to catch the team’s pre-season training. He even got a surprise visit at his hotel from the Maple Leafs alumni players!