Wish to Fish Foundation

Wishes That Touch Everyone’s Heart
By Don Hampton - August, 2008

On this day we were able to grant five wishes for the Tinsley family from Sulphur Springs, Texas. The trip included mom and dad, Todd and Sonya, five children three biological, Braden age 9, with Asthma, Brenna age 7, with Right Middle Lobe Syndrome and Aspergers Syndrome, Bailee Ann age 6, with Asthma, and two of their foster children, Tyra Weatherall, age 6, with Spina Bifida and Tiara Donnell age 5, with no illness and sister to Tyra.

On Saturday, August 30th the “Wish to Fish Foundation” had the privilege and honor of granting not just one wish at a time but rather five wishes on one trip.

The “Wish to Fish Foundation” caters to children that have been diagnosed with a life threatening disease or been involved in a life threatening situation. The foundation with the help of our terrific sponsors brings the child, siblings, and parents to Lake Fork for a fun filled day on this great reservoir at no cost to the family. All meals, snacks, tackle, bait and lodging are furnished. The family is then taken fishing on a 26-foot tritoon boat (graciously donated to the foundation by Bob and Vicki Davis, Davis Brothers Construction, Houston, Texas) to fish for any species that will bite the hook and escorted by two 9-1-1 chase boats in case of emergency. On this day we were able to grant five wishes for the Tinsley family from Sulphur Springs, Texas. The trip included mom and dad, Todd and Sonya, five children three biological, Braden age 9, with Asthma, Brenna age 7, with Right Middle Lobe Syndrome and Aspergers Syndrome, Bailee Ann age 6, with Asthma, and two of their foster children, Tyra Weatherall, age 6, with Spina Bifida and Tiara Donnell age 5, with no illness and sister to Tyra.

Just waiting for the next biteThe day began with a hearty breakfast for the family and directors furnished by Bobby and Paula Henderson owners of Lake Fork Lighthouse Resort and great sponsors of the program. During breakfast Brian Duplechain with Wave Fishing brought gift packs for all the children which included a T-shirt, cap, and fishing lures and even had extras to be sent home to two of the children that were not able to come on the trip.

With a full stomach the children were more than anxious to get on the lake and start catching fish. Each child received their own rod n’ reel and plenty of bait for everyone furnished by Froggy D’s on Hwy. 17. It wasn’t long thereafter, the excitement began. During the course of the day all the children caught fish and were not limited to any one species. They were reeling in catfish, bream, bass, crappie and an abundance of smiles, giggles and laughter.

Lunch for the trip was provided by Kenny and Becky Moser at Moser’s Restaurant. Kenny and Becky are to be commended. With every trip we take Kenny’s words to me are, “You don’t have to ask Don, just bring everyone on in!” It is great kind hearted people like our sponsors that truly make Lake Fork, not just a good lake to fish but a great lake to come to!

Another couple that fit into that category is Andy and Carolyn Johnson, owners of A.J.’s Fish House. The day came to a conclusion with a fine catfish dinner of all we could eat sponsored by A.J.’s. At the closing of each trip the wives of the directors attend the dinner so they too can socialize and meet the parents and children.

Once again “The Wish to Fish Foundation” was blessed by being able to bring laughter and smiles to more children’s faces. As the number of “Bubba’s Kids” grow, with each wish that is granted they in turn truly touch our hearts.

The directors helping me on this trip were Lew Conder, Albert Jordan, Kelly Perry, and Ken Law. Steve Glenn, owner of Steve’s Props donated his time Saturday afternoon which was very much appreciated.

The Wish To Fish Foundation would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our many sponsors for their contributions which make these trips possible. We could not do it without them.

For scheduling or more information contact:
Don Hampton
903-383-7748
or Email Us