On Thursday, Sept. 22, 17-year-old Rebekah Stege arrived in Springdale after traveling from Milwaukee to begin the trip of her dreams through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her stay at Zion National Park will take place September 19–24 when she will spend her time exploring the park with her family.
Thanks to local community efforts, her visit will provide her and her family memories for a lifetime and a needed source of fun and relaxation. From lodging to transportation and massages on the river, Stege will not have to worry about a single detail of the trip thanks to the meticulous planning of Zion Lodge general manager Daisy Hobbs and the cooperation and contributions of the Springdale community.
Diagnosed with a rheumatologic disorder, Stege was referred to the Make-A-Wish Foudation, to which she declared her one true wish was to visit and explore Zion National Park. She and her family worked with the Wisconsin and Utah chapters of the organization to coordinate a trip that she will remember for a lifetime. More than anything, she wanted to stay inside of the park to enjoy Zion’s natural beauty for the entire length of her trip.
Upon hearing this news, Hobbs left no stone unturned in ensuring Stege’s wish included all of the best attractions Zion has to offer. She secured Stege and her family lodging at Zion Lodge and coordinated a one-of-a-kind experience for the rest of Stege’s trip. During her stay, Stege will visit Katie Starling Studio where she will work one-on-one with local artist Starling to complete an oil painting and enjoy a personal meet-and-greet with Zion Park superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh, who will answer all of her park-related questions. She will go horseback riding along Zion Canyon, take a guided hike with Michael Plyler to learn about the park’s petroglyphs and experience slot canyons, relax with massages on the Virgin River donated by Kellan Cox of Zion Canyon Massage, and dine at local restaurants. Hobbs was able to coordinate meals and attractions from multiple local vendors who donated services. In addition to the above, these community partners include Spotted Dog Cafe, Wildcat Willie’s, Bit and Spur Restaurant, Oscar’s, Switchback Grille, Zion Canyon Brew Pub, Zion Outdoor, the Zion Natural History Association, and Zion Canyon Giant Screen Theater.
For more information about Stege’s itinerary, contact Hilarie Timmerman at (801) 305-1980.
Make-A-Wish Utah aims to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Located at A Wishing Place, its facility in Murray, Make-A-Wish Utah offers a life-affirming wish experience at a time of critical need. More information is available online at utah.wish.org or at (801) 262-9474.
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