At just six years old, Paxton Rumensky’s boundless energy is evident, despite his frequent visits to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. His days are filled with playtime, shared with his younger brothers, Cam and Maddox, and the family’s playful new pup, Benny.
Paxton, hailing from Dickson City, is just like any other child when he steps off the school bus after a field trip, embracing his mother and rolling on the ground in laughter with his puppy. “We don’t want him to feel like he’s different,” says his mother, Marlena Rumensky, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Paxton doesn’t feel restricted in his activities.
Born with gastroschisis, an abdominal wall defect, Paxton has spent significant time in the hospital, lacking most of his small intestine and colon. His daily routine includes receiving nutrients via a Total Parental Nutrition (TPN) IV.
Flying was once a concern for Paxton’s family due to his medical needs. “We’ve never flown with him before,” Marlena explained, highlighting the complexities of traveling with TPN supplies and Paxton’s medical equipment.
In April, a dream came true for Paxton and his family as they embarked on a “once in a lifetime” trip to Walt Disney World, courtesy of Make-A-Wish. The organization ensured a stress-free experience by managing all his medical supplies. “Sometimes I just gotta let the medical things be and just live life,” Marlena reflected, appreciating the joy the trip brought to her family.
Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish is a national foundation that grants transformative wishes for children facing critical illnesses. As explained by Dana Antkowiak, director of marketing and communications for Make-A-Wish of Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia, these wishes are for children diagnosed with progressive, degenerative, or malignant conditions that threaten their lives.
Paxton, though living with a lifelong critical condition, is not terminal. Last year, Antkowiak’s chapter in Northeast Pennsylvania granted 44 wishes, part of the 15,700 wishes fulfilled nationally. Disney remains a favorite choice, representing half of all wish trips.
“You have people say that you get your pixie dust from Walt Disney World,” remarked Phelicia Blake, a Walt Disney World ambassador who accompanied the Rumenskys, her first Make-A-Wish family. The Disney ‘Wish Lounge’ offered them a special retreat during their visit.
Paxton’s Wish Trip
Make-A-Wish handled all travel arrangements for the Rumensky family, ensuring a relaxed journey. Antkowiak emphasized, “With travel wishes, they are not meant to be a burden to our families.” The trip left a lasting impression on Paxton, who expressed a desire to stay in Disney forever.
During their trip, Paxton and his family explored numerous attractions, including Sea World and Universal Studios. His favorite moments involved riding thrilling attractions like Expedition Everest and Space Mountain. At Universal, he delighted in casting spells with his Harry Potter wand.
‘Just let him be a kid and enjoy the rides’
Paxton’s trip wasn’t without careful preparation. His mother crafted a special vest to secure his central line, and his daily routine includes meticulous care of his medical needs. Despite these challenges, Marlena’s focus remains on allowing Paxton to enjoy life to the fullest.
“We just want him to be a kid,” Marlena expressed, grateful to Make-A-Wish for the opportunity to focus on joy rather than medical concerns. Looking back, she marvels at Paxton’s resilience and happiness, far beyond her expectations from his early days.
