The Tim Tebow Foundation’s W15H Program Makes a Young Girl’s Dream Come True
Hello November 10th, 2011
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Every year more than 15,000 children are diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, a chronic condition and life-threatening illness. For 13-year-old Olathe, Kansas resident Ryley DeMaro, diabetes has brought many changes and challenges, but has never taken away her determination.
As a participant in the National Football League’s PUNT, PASS & KICK (PPK) program, DeMaro will take the field this Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium for the Kansas City regional event, but she will leave with memories of a dream that finally has come true as she meets her hero Tim Tebow.
Through the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Wish 15 (W15H) program, in partnership with Dreams Come True of Jacksonville, DeMaro will leave the struggles of her illness behind when she gets to talk with Tebow about his book, which she has read, and discuss the admiration she has for his hard work and Christian beliefs.
She will take with her memories that will last a lifetime and exclusive gifts made possible by W15H: a #15 jersey, Nike duffle bag, Jockey gift card and so much more.
It was in 2007 when a sudden change in DeMaro’s health was noticed by her family. An avid softball and basketball player, and a huge football fan, diabetes would soon play an important role in how she would prepare and participate in her favorite sports. Before each game she has to remove her insulin pump and closely monitor her blood sugar, which can rise to over 400 by the end of her games. Determined to never give up on her joy of sports, DeMaro plays year-around fast pitch softball for the Kansas City Blaze and basketball for the Kansas Elite.
DeMaro and her family continue to believe they have been given the opportunity to encourage others, just as Tebow does for many children and families in need.
