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Zoo makes child cancer patient’s dream come true

During the zoo tour the Von Glahn family got up close to koalas and fed a wallaby.
Cleve Zoo

CLEVELAND - Nine-year-old Lily Von Glahn is in the middle of her battle against Leukemia. A diagnosis Lily and her family in Avon Lake have been working to combat since 2014.

"I get a little emotional," said Lily's mom Heather Von Glahn. "It's been a rough road for her. She's doing really well now."

After two years of long hospital stays, and painful treatments Lily's health is on the upswing. Her doctors at the Cleveland Clinic gave her the all clear to accomplish one of her dreams: go on a behind the scenes tour of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

"I was thinking I can't wait," said Lily. "I really want to see all the animals."

Zoo makes child cancer patient’s dream come true

The germs at the zoo posed a serious risk to Lily's health up until recently. Keeping her away from places children her age routinely visit.

"She's had to see a lot of things on TV and not experience them in real life so this is such a blessing to see her out living her life," said Heather.

The non-profit organization, A Special Wish Cleveland, partnered with the Von Glahn family waiting until she was strong enough to grant her wish.

"Lily is always positive through the darkest times," said Heather. "She was always upbeat and let's do this we got it."

During the zoo tour the Von Glahn family got up close to koalas and fed a wallaby.

"It's been fun, really fun," said Lily.

"She's a whole different kid now," said Heather. "She is just doing amazing, thriving."

Lily's final cancer treatment is this December.

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