Rebecca's Wish

Rebecca's Wish Rebecca's Wish promotes the prevention and treatment of pediatric pancreatic diseases through education, partnership, and research efforts while supporting

Rebecca's Wish promotes the prevention and treatment of pediatric pancreatic diseases through education, partnership, and research efforts while supporting the individuals and families affected by these ailments.

Enzymes are essential to life for children with pancreatitis. CREON is an enzyme supplement that helps break down food i...
05/11/2026

Enzymes are essential to life for children with pancreatitis. CREON is an enzyme supplement that helps break down food into nutrients and allows children to eat if they have pancreatitis, pancreatic insufficiency, or if they are post-transplant. For many children, CREON is the difference between living a full life versus hospitalization after a simple meal.

But the cost of this medication can be overwhelming.

CREON traditionally costs $700 to $2,500 per month with insurance -and often more- and even with coverage families may still face significant out-of-pocket expenses for a medication that must be taken with every meal and snack. Simply put, the numbers add up quickly.

We want to make sure every family knows financial help is available.

The CREON Complete program reduces your cost to as little as $5 per month with many medical insurance plans.

To get started, families can call:

1-844-ONCREON (1-844-662-7366)
Monday through Friday
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET

A dedicated Ambassador will walk you through the enrollment process and help determine your eligibility.

There are far too many heartbreaking stories of children skipping meals or hospitalized simply because of the high cost of CREON.

Rebecca’s Wish works to ensure no child will be left without proper medication to treat their pancreas disease.

If you have any questions or need help navigating this process, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Rebecca's Wish. You are not alone on your journey.

Rebecca’s Wish shines a light every month on a child with pancreatitis whose journey reflects courage and resilience in ...
05/04/2026

Rebecca’s Wish shines a light every month on a child with pancreatitis whose journey reflects courage and resilience in the face of a very challenging disease, and we are honored to recognize 6-year-old Anelise Marie Velasquez of San Antonio as our Pancreas Pal of May 2026.

Anelise is full of creativity and energy. She loves drawing and coloring and nothing makes her light up quite like music.

Anelise was diagnosed with pancreatitis at the age of 3. Half of her young life has been a medical rollercoaster with moments that require caution and care to avoid painful flare-ups.

“Hospital visits can be especially overwhelming, with frequent pokes, tests, and monitoring that no child should have to endure,” said Anelise’s mother. Yet through it all, Anelise faces each day with courage. She continues to grow, learn, and push forward, always striving to feel better and live a full life.

The last two years, Anelise and her family have attended nearly every Rebecca’s Wish event and found a community of encouragement, with Anelise building meaningful friendships with other children who understand her journey. She says that when she is around kids with pancreatitis, she is reminded she is never alone.

Anelise and her family asked us to share a heartfelt message message with you:

“Thank you for fighting for us. Thank you for making us feel special and celebrating us even when times are hard. Ms. Joy, thank you for being our biggest cheerleader and always showing up.”

Anelise, your strength, joy, and beautiful spirit inspire us at Rebecca’s Wish. We are proud to celebrate you as our Pancreas Pal!

Children with pancreatitis need inspiration and support, and we are fortunate at Rebecca's Wish, that so many of you hav...
04/27/2026

Children with pancreatitis need inspiration and support, and we are fortunate at Rebecca's Wish, that so many of you have stepped forward to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with our pancreas patients and our nonprofit. Your hard work inspired us last year to launch an initiative that formally identifies all the extraordinary champions of Rebecca's Wish as Pancreas Partners. And today, we have the privilege of introducing you to our Pancreas Partner of April 2026, Kellee Chase. The Hope Gala in Salt Lake City on February 28, 2026 was Kellee's brainchild, and her leadership at the Gala was catalytic in ensuring that this first-of-its kind event was a tremendous success.

Kellee lives in Salt Lake City and is the mother of five children, including Jessica, who was 14-years old when she first started experiencing symptoms of pancreatitis. Jessica, however, was initially diagnosed with liver disease, and for several years, physicians treated Jessica's liver , before discovering that pancreatitis was the true source of Jessica's misery. Once properly diagnosed with pancreatitis, Jessica would go on to receive 14 endoscopic pancreas procedures before doctors decided she needed a life-saving total pancreatectomy. Thanks to the extraordinary care of her medical team, Jessica is now pain-free and pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse.

Kellee discovered Rebecca's Wish while her daughter was being treated in Utah by Dr. Trevor Laborda, a Rebecca's Wish Pediatric Advanced Endoscopy Fellow. Jessica has spent several summers with us at Camp Hope as a camper and as a counselor, which inspired her mother to join us at Camp Hope the last two years as a cabin counselor, where she witnessed the impact of camp on children facing similar challenges as her daughter.

Kellee describes it as "life-changing" to watch all the campers "laugh, connect and simply enjoy being kids. Camp Hope creates a space where children can set aside their illness, even if only for a time, and experience joy and understanding."

Kellee, we want you to know that we think the world of you, and we are grateful to you for being a beacon of light for other parents who have children with this terrible disease.

A little bit of luck with the weather went a long way on Saturday, April 11th, when our pancreas families came together ...
04/23/2026

A little bit of luck with the weather went a long way on Saturday, April 11th, when our pancreas families came together in San Antonio for the Rebecca’s Wish Fiesta Party. With storms looming all weekend, our timing couldn’t have been any better for an afternoon filled with laughter, connection, and celebration.

Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair set the stage for a laid-back and joyful gathering where families spent quality time together playing with bubbles, listening to mariachi, and cooling off with palletas, all of which added to the festive feel of the day.

Beyond the activities, what stood out most was the sense of community. The Rebecca’s Wish Fiesta Party continues to be a meaningful way for our pancreas families to connect, reflect, and support one another. Moments like these remind us just how strong and united we are as a community.

We are grateful the rain stayed away when it mattered, and even more thankful for the volunteers and families whose presence made the day so special.

¡Viva Fiesta! 🎉

04/21/2026

We brought connection, color, and community spirit to San Antonio on Saturday, April 11th as dozens of families gathered for the Rebecca's Wish Fiesta Party. Despite a weekend filled with storms, the skies held off just long enough for us to come together and enjoy an amazing afternoon.

Hosted at the beautiful Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair, our families got the chance to relax and celebrate one another in a space designed for good times and togetherness. We brought out giant bubble games for the party, lively music, face painting, creative crafts, yummy paletas, and a homemade taco stand, all of which added an amazing touch to a warm spring day.

More than just events, our annual celebrations continue to be meaningful reminders of the strength and resilience within our pancreas community. Seeing so many families come together and sharing their stories made the day truly special. We are incredibly grateful that the weather gave us the window we needed, but even more grateful for our volunteers and our families who showed up and made the celebration unforgettable. Viva Fiesta!

Rebecca’s Wish President Christyn Taylor was honored to deliver a presentation to some of the brightest minds in gastroi...
04/13/2026

Rebecca’s Wish President Christyn Taylor was honored to deliver a presentation to some of the brightest minds in gastrointestinal medicine at the National Pancreas Foundation’s 20th Annual Fellows Symposium. This Symposium brings together fellows, early-career physicians and scientists eager to deepen their expertise in pancreas-related topics.

Christyn addressed a topic that does not always make it into clinical conversations: medical trauma. For many of our children, the journey with pancreatitis is marked by repeated hospital stays, invasive procedures, and unrelenting pain. These experiences leave more than physical scars - they can shape a child’s emotional and psychological well-being in profound ways. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress are realities for many of these young patients. And the impact extends beyond the child, touching every member of the family.

This is why our work at Rebecca’s Wish must go beyond treating symptoms. We must care for the whole child - and support the entire family.

Not long ago, when it came to understanding pediatric pancreatitis or even advocating for children living with it, we often found ourselves navigating uncharted territory at Rebecca’s Wish. Today, that has changed in the most meaningful of ways. We are no longer walking alone. We are shoulder to shoulder with powerful partners across the world, including one of our strongest allies, the National Pancreas Foundation.

Together, with our partners and hospitals across the nation, we are advancing research, supporting specialized care, and raising awareness in ways that were once unimaginable.

We all share the same goal: to ensure that no child has to face this journey alone.

Meet Sawyer Jurgenson, a brave and inspiring 12-year-old from McCallsburg, Iowa, which is a rural community of roughly 3...
04/06/2026

Meet Sawyer Jurgenson, a brave and inspiring 12-year-old from McCallsburg, Iowa, which is a rural community of roughly 350 people an hour north of Des Moines.

Diagnosed with pancreatitis at the age of 3, Sawyer has faced many medical challenges over the course of his young life because of the disease. He says it is not easy to live with pancreatitis and “some days bring pain and exhaustion.” He has to be careful about what he eats and misses out on school activities and athletics because of his pancreatitis.

Sawyer’s favorite subject is science and loves learning how the body works and understanding more about pancreatitis.

Sawyer wants everyone to understand that pancreatitis can affect kids, even young ones, and although the symptoms may not always be visible, the disease is “very real and very painful.” He says, “a little patience and understanding can go a long way.”

Sawyer says Rebecca’s Wish has made a powerful impact on his life, especially Camp Hope, where he has made some of his closest friends. “Rebecca’s Wish has helped me feel less alone,” he shares. “It gives me hope and something to look forward to. Thank you for everything you do for kids like me. You make hard days easier and help us feel seen, supported, and hopeful. I’m really grateful to be part of this community at Rebecca’s Wish,” Sawyer says.

Sawyer, your strength and resilience inspire us at Rebecca's Wish. We are proud to recognize you as our Pancreas Pal of April 2026.

Join us for Rebecca’s Wish Fiesta Party on Saturday, April 11th from 3:00–5:00 PM! Fun-filled activities await our pancr...
03/30/2026

Join us for Rebecca’s Wish Fiesta Party on Saturday, April 11th from 3:00–5:00 PM! Fun-filled activities await our pancreatitis families at the fantastic Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair Park in San Antonio with giant bubble games, music, face painting, crafts, splash zones and homemade taco stands. Kick off this Spring season with laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories…..

Please consider volunteering for a rewarding experience serving our children.

Registration is required for this FREE event for all attendees including volunteers:

https://secure.qgiv.com/for/rebeccaswish/event/2rwwwpc/

We can't wait to see you there!
Viva Fiesta!

If you plan to participate in the Splash Zone after the event, bring a change of water clothes and a towel.

For more information on the park and with parking go to: https://hemisfair.org/visit/directions-parking/

The Hope Gala fulfilled its promise of HOPE. It was a surreal experience standing on stage half-way across the country i...
03/23/2026

The Hope Gala fulfilled its promise of HOPE.
It was a surreal experience standing on stage half-way across the country in Salt Lake City in a room full of patients, families, medical providers and donors all with a unifying vision to help heal our children with pancreatitis.
I remember Rebecca’s first meeting with Make A Wish – she wanted help for these hurting kids. Help for these families. Help for this devastating disease.
On the night of the Gala, I looked upon the crowd and saw help. I saw joy. I saw love. I saw compassion. I saw a wish come true. It filled me with a profound sense of humility and overwhelming gratefulness.
The success of this incredible event will bring life-changing memories to our pancreatitis children they will carry with them for a lifetime.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you for making this unexpected miracle a reality.
With deep and abiding appreciation,
Christyn

03/09/2026

As a nonprofit, Rebecca’s Wish acknowledges that it takes a strong commitment from an army of volunteers to bring hope and healing to children with pancreatitis. That is why we launched an initiative in 2025 to recognize our amazing champions of Rebecca’s Wish as “Pancreas Partners.”

Rebecca’s Wish is proud to name Alexander Taylor as our Pancreas Partner of March 2026. Alexander is the youngest son of Rebecca's Wish President Christyn Taylor. He is currently a high school senior, and has committed to enroll next year at Texas A&M University.

Here is Alexander, in his own words, after he was told he would be recognized as a Rebecca's Wish Pancreas Partner.

"Rebecca's Wish was founded when I was 10 years old. I am the youngest of the Taylor family, and so the largest portion of my life has been spent around this nonprofit. Growing up with a sister with pancreatitis and spending so much time with her in hospitals was hard. People do not truly understand how hard it is until they have experienced it themselves. I have had the blessing of visiting pancreas patients and families, and because of Rebecca's Wish, have been able to help them with their needs.

Since I grew up around hospitals I can relate on a personal level. I understand the pain that they go through and the feeling of being alone. In the mission statement of Rebeccas Wish, it says that they provide "hope" and that is exactly what I have witnessed.

As a counselor of Camp Hope, I get to see children with pancreatitis for the first time realize they are not alone with their pain. The way they open up and have fun while getting to be a kid for a week is truly life changing.

I, myself, was diagnosed with pancreatitis two years ago, and I have found a deeper appreciation for the strength of the pediatric pancreatitis patient. This disease is not something anyone should go through alone, and Rebecca’s Wish is there to help and support with deep compassion. To all the volunteers, donors, and people helping, I thank you.

We want you to know that you are very much appreciated, Alexander. Thank you for being an amazing friend to Rebecca's Wish and a wonderful Pancreas Partner.

Zoey Zwalkuski, our Pancreas Pal for March, has had an unusual journey with her pancreas in comparison to the majority o...
03/02/2026

Zoey Zwalkuski, our Pancreas Pal for March, has had an unusual journey with her pancreas in comparison to the majority of our pancreats patients at Rebecca’s Wish. This 11-year-old from Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania had a serious bike accident that injured her pancreas five years ago. She needed emergency surgery and doctors had to remove 60% of her pancreas. At first, she was at high risk for pancreatitis, but today her risk is much lower. Because she lives with just 40% of her pancreas, Zoey keeps a close eye on her health, including checking her A1C levels, but tells us she feels incredibly grateful to be living a normal, active life. In fact, Zoey plays field hockey, basketball, and soccer. She truly loves staying active and competing with her friends!

After her surgery, Zoey’s family did not know anyone else her age with pancreatic issues. While searching for answers and support, they found Rebecca’s Wish and tell us they were welcomed with open arms. Zoey has attended Camp Hope every year and says it is the highlight of her summer, because she is surrounded by kids who truly understand her. She says Camp Hope makes her feel supported and that she has made lifelong friends at camp who have become an important part of her life.

Zoey says it can feel “scary at time” to live with the possibility of pancreatitis can feel scary at times, but that she focuses on the positive and feels lucky that her pancreas is doing everything it needs to do. One powerful message Zoey wants everyone to remember: “Just because someone looks okay on the outside doesn’t mean they aren’t facing something difficult on the inside.”

We are so proud of you at Rebecca’s Wish. Zoey, your strength, positive energy, and kind heart are inspirational!

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San Antonio, TX

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+1 210-639-9276

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