Eight-year-old Wellington resident Sophia Lago was granted her wish for a Pomeranian puppy Sunday, May 30 by Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.
Lago has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disease that causes muscles to degenerate and become weak. A dog lover, she has always wanted a puppy to care for but feared it would be too heavy to lift, given her condition. When she first saw a Pomeranian, she knew that it could be a forever friend for her. The three-pound puppy was provided by Puppy Spot.
A recent emigree from Brazil who is learning to speak English, Lago has had trouble making friends and was excited about being “mom” to a special companion. She knew that her wish would be granted, but had no idea when, and couldn’t believe that she’d be able to take Winnie home after the wish delivery was complete.
Make-A-Wish Southern Florida has granted nearly 13,000 life-changing wishes since 1983 for children who have critical illnesses. It aims to grant a wish for every medically eligible child in its territory and understands wishes aren’t just nice, they’re necessary for kids and families at difficult times in their lives.