SPOKANE, Wash. - A young boy is going back and thanking those who helped him during the darkest days of his life.
Tyler Jensen is now a strong, vibrant 13-year-old, but an immune system disorder had him fighting for his life when he was just 6-months-old.
Many people were there for him during his ordeal, but one organization in particular made a big difference.
The Wishing Star Foundation gave Tyler determination and hope during the fight for his life. Now, Tyler and his family wanted to let them know how much their help meant to them.
"Tyler had some very serious medical problems starting at 6 months of age that were related to his immune system, which resulted in a lot of other problems with his blood, his colon, some skin irritations," explained Tyler's dad Jerry Jensen.
It was a painful battle to simply survive and one that was baffling doctors.
"It was just so many little problems at once," Jerry said. "They sent us to Salt Lake to try and figure out what was going on."
It was a dark time for Jerry Jensen and his entire family, watching Tyler's tiny body fight every single day.
With each passing year, Tyler's condition improved. When Tyler was about four-years-old, the Wishing Star Foundation heard about his story.
"They invited us to come, bring Tyler in and they were able to grant him a wish," Jerry said.
Tyler's wish was a trip to Walt Disney World.
"It was just a real special time for us with everything we went through," Jerry explained.
Tyler's family said every year, he seemed to get a little bit stronger.
"Everything is behind him, it's just been a blessing," Jerry said.
However, even with all those hardships behind them, the family has never forgotten who made Tyler's dreams come true.
"I remember the limo ride, some of my favorite rides," Tyler said recalling the trip to Walt Disney World.
Tyler said he does not recall every detail of the trip, but said he does remember how it made him feel. He said that is why now, 9-years later he decided to thank those who made the trip possible.
This week Jerry and Tyler brought Subway sandwiches and plenty of smiles to the staff at the Wishing Star Foundation.
However, more than the tasty lunch, two words were made the difference.
"Thank you," Jerry said. "For everything you did for us."
"They helped me, it feels pretty good to help them back," Tyler said.
Subway actually delivered sandwiches to 12 different charities this week.The Jensen's own a Subway, so they made sure to stop by their favorite organization as a thank you.
Tyler's family said he is doing great. Tyler plays hockey, loves to read, and is one of those kids that likes to make others smile.
