Make-A-Wish grants Camper to Local 8-year-Old Boy Battling Cystic Fibrosis

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – It was a special day for Asa Shaner as he celebrated his 8th birthday with his family as Make-A-Wish granted the young boy’s dream of owning a camper.

Camping World just outside of Cape Girardeau in Scott City rolled out the red carpet making Asa’s birthday unforgettable with gifts and celebrations.

Asa, who has cystic fibrosis and Tourette’s syndrome, was given the choice between a trip to Great Wolf Lodge or a new camper. For him, the decision was easy.

“Camping, well its because like you can just be in the forest and you can make Smores, I love Smores. ” Say’s Asa explaining with a smile why he chose the Camper.

From the moment he entered Camping World, Asa’s excitement was on full display. His parents, Shaun and Jessica Shaner, happy to see the joy in his eyes, describing him as a busybody who doesn’t let his medical conditions hold him back from anything.

“You can’t tell by looking at him that there’s anything going on,” said Shaun. “Being able to go out camping is something he’s wanted to do for a long time.”

Due to Asa’s heat intolerance, Asa hasn’t been able to enjoy exploring as much as he would like to. This new camper complete with a full air conditioning unit now makes his dreams a reality.

Asa’s parents revealed why the camper was the perfect choice. “When he started the Make-A-Wish application, a big piece of that was about being outside. He couldn’t stop talking about the environment, from planting seeds to picking up acorns,” said Shaun describing Asa’s love for the outdoors.

“I’m just super grateful that he gets this opportunity,” said Shaun, holding back tears. “There are so many things he can’t do with this condition, so to have some normalcy means a lot to me.”

For the Shaner family, the camper means more than just trips, it’s a chance for them to create memories that will last a lifetime.

“When you have a child who’s medically complex, there’s so much you have to account for,” Shaun said. “This will be an exciting adventure for all of us.”

As for Asa, he says he can’t wait to start exploring. When asked when they’ll start camping, he smiled and said, “maybe in a few days.”