Rock Valley, Iowa – No parent wants, or expects to hear the words “you child has cancer.” It’s heartbreaking news for everyone, and it immediately changes your life forever.
This is no exception for 11-year-old Tripp Postmus of Rock Valley, Iowa. He was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma in April of 2017. The following is from a letter that was passed on to KIWA written by Tripp’s mom Maria.
“I want to be a professional soccer player someday, I want to be a doctor,” no one grows up saying – “when I get sick, I want to go to Disneyland.” When families are told their child is now battling a life threatening, life changing illness, the last thing on their minds is “Hey, we get to go on vacation.” Their thoughts are “How are we going to make it to tomorrow.”
Then the call comes – “Your child is eligible for a Make-A-Wish trip! We are going to send you a packet to help your child start thinking about what they would like to do, then we would like to meet with you.” Sometimes your child knows what their dream would be, sometimes they are not able to make the decision, and their parents try to pick one thing they believe would be the best wish for their child. Then you start thinking about their health, their meds, what it’s going to take to go on this trip. It’s overwhelming and exhausting – a lot of work – but so worth it for the memories made with your family.
Tripp’s Make-A-Wish dream was granted in January of 2018, when he, along with his parents Maria & Chad, and his younger brother Caleb, attended the Rolex 24 Le Mans Race in Daytona as part of Team Corvette. Tripp’s name, along with an American flag, appeared on the car’s list of drivers.
Tripp’s story has a happy ending. Two months ago, in June of 2018, he was pronounced cancer free. He still has regular doctor’s appointments, but the outlook is very positive. Tripp’s Make a Wish experience has continued beyond the organized trip. His mom tells us that Tripp makes friends wherever he goes, and Team Corvette was no exception. Friends from Team Corvette are honoring Tripp by making a stop in Rock Valley on their way to their next race at Laguna Seca, CA.
The public is invited to Tripp’s Team Corvette / Make-A-Wish Community-Wide Block Party, which will be taking place in Rock Valley on Monday, September 3rd, from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. There will be a free will offering supper as well as a silent auction, with proceeds going to Make-A-Wish Iowa.
