OKC Teen Gets Ready to Go Down Under as AEM Grants His Wish!

Joey, a 15 year old from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was born with Spina Bifida. Spina Bifida is a developmental birth defect that results in incomplete closure of the spinal cord that can cause paralysis, hand-eye coordination difficulties and even learning difficulties.

Joey is passionate about animals and wildlife, and is a huge fan of the late Steve Irwin from Animal Planet. When Joey was asked what he wished for, he decided to fulfill his dream of visiting the famous zoo in Sydney, Australia. American Equity Mortgage, through AEM Cares, teamed up with the Make-A-Wish foundation to help Joey's wish come true!

Before the journey down under is made, there were a few surprises in store for Joey. In early October, Joey was shocked when a limousine was waiting at his house to take him, and his family, to a private wish celebration at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Joey was greeted by AEM employees, family, friends and a feast of pizza, soda and cake. After eating and visiting with everyone, the surprise continued with a private limo tour through the zoo! The event was really special for Joey and his family, and that was just the wish party!

Lisa Zachary, a Loan Officer in our Oklahoma City office, said she has never been more proud to be a part of the AEM family than during the wish party. She recalled Joey's reaction when he was greeted at the party, "Joey was completely surprised by his send off party. His joy was evident in his smile and laughter. He spun around and came straight toward all of us with a very grateful look on his face. He introduced himself to each one of us and hung out for a bit to chat. It was awesome to be a part of something that brings joy into a child and his family's lives , especially knowing how much pain they have had to endure, and will have to in the future."

Bringing joy, laughter and great memories to a child and their family is what granting these wishes is all about for us. American Equity Mortgage is proud to have helped the Make-A-Wish foundation make Joey's wish come true.