Hayden’s Dream

"Hayden had such an unforgettable time at sea! From snorkeling and water parks to teen events and late-night pizza with the boys."
Hayden on the water slide on the cruise ship
Dream Child: Hayden
Dream Captains: Carolyn Gilliam, Meredith &  Josh Buckner
At just 17 years old, Hayden faces several autoimmune conditions and chronic liver disease — but that didn’t stop him from dreaming big. His wish? A cruise adventure!
Hayden had such an unforgettable time at sea! From snorkeling and water parks to teen events and late-night pizza with the boys, it sounds like he soaked up every moment of fun.
We’re honored to help bring this dream to life. A heartfelt thank-you to our generous sponsors and supporters — you make dreams like Hayden’s possible.
  • Hayden on the water slide on the cruise ship
  • Hayden and his buds
  • Hayden's cruise adventure
  • Hayden and his buds
  • Swimming in the ocean
  • Hayden and buds chillin'
  • Hayden and his new best friends
  • Hayden and his new best friends
  • Thank you Dream Connection!

About The Dream Connection

The Dream Connection is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting children battling life-threatening or debilitating illnesses with the resources to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We are 100% volunteer-based, so 100% of every donation goes directly toward fulfilling children’s dreams. 
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Want to bring joy and light into a child’s life? Your contributions help us make a big impact on kids with dreams that seem big to them – but are small compared to what they endure every day.

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The Latest Dreams Come True

See some of the dreams that recently became reality – thanks to generous donors like YOU!


Lincoln at Epcot.
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They caught 50 fish during this excursion
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"It’s been incredible!"
What a perfect morning! We walked to the lighthouse, picked shells, then saw porpoises, grey seals, eagles, and caught more than 50 fish! It’s been incredible!
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Callyn & Family getting ready to leave for her dream trip
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Callyn got to experience the magic of her dream trip and create these special memories with her family.
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Lakelynn with two Disney Princesses
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Lakelynn's dream was to visit Disney World with her family and stay at Give Kids the World Village, where she experienced the magic, joy, and freedom every child deserves.
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Andi's Dream Cruise
Andi's Dream
"Andi went down waterslides, spent hours swimming and shopping, watched amazing shows, and indulged in delicious food"
Andi went down waterslides, spent hours swimming and shopping, watched amazing shows, indulged in delicious food, and enjoyed all the ice cream she could possibly eat.
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