Syracuse Tween Fulfills Hawaiian Dream Amid Battle with Cystic Fibrosis

Photo byWNDU

SYRACUSE, Ind. – Anna Lopez, a spirited seventh grader from Wawasee Middle School, is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Despite her ongoing battle with cystic fibrosis, a condition that presents daily challenges, Anna's indomitable spirit has never wavered. Now, she’s headed to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, a trip that promises to create memories that will last forever.

Anna, who has been described by those close to her as “the coolest kid in the world,” has a natural curiosity and zest for life that shines through even in the face of her illness. Her mother, Melissa Hoover, explains the daily struggles Anna faces, such as thickened mucus that complicates her digestion and lung function. Yet, with the aid of a feeding tube and a regimen of life-sustaining medications, Anna continues to live her life with the courage and resilience of a true Warrior—fittingly, the mascot of her school.

The community came together in a heartfelt sendoff at the Wawasee gym, where over 600 students, family members, and close friends gathered to wish Anna well on her Hawaiian adventure. The gym buzzed with excitement as Anna arrived, overwhelmed at first, but soon feeling the love and support of everyone around her.

On her trip, Anna won’t be alone. Accompanied by her mom, stepdad, and five siblings, she has big plans for her time in Hawaii. “My biggest thing is climbing a coconut tree,” Anna shared with a grin. “And fishing in Hawaii, that sounds really fun to me.”

This dream vacation is just one of many wishes granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, made possible through the generous support of BW/Cook Service Experts, who have donated over $1.5 million in the past six years. To add to the excitement, BW/Cook is gifting Anna an underwater GoPro, ensuring she can capture every unforgettable moment in the crystal-clear waters of Hawaii.

As Anna prepares to turn 13 on September 1, she embarks on this journey not just as a child fighting a serious illness, but as a beacon of hope and determination, reminding us all that even in the face of adversity, dreams can come true.