Payton is a compassionate and enthusiastic teenager. An athlete, an artist, a leader, a role model, Payton’s accomplishments are humbling and her desire to help others transcends her years and sets an example for us all.
A strong athlete and dedicated teammate, Payton is on her high school rugby team and plays softball in the community. Her presence on the field is felt not only in points scored, but also in the cheer she brings to each game. She also inspires the next generation of athletes as a coach of a youth softball team. A diversely skilled artist, Payton is a performer in her high school musical theatre, a member of her high school concert band, and a talented sketch artist. Her creativity and imagination shine through her love of creating music videos, particularly of the anime genre. Her productions have received over 10,000 hits and she has over 400 subscribers to her website! A Ranger in the Girl Guides of Canada, Payton is a Junior Leader, mentoring 10 to 13 year old Girl Guides in confidence, courage, and making a difference in the world. She has passion, an infectious positive attitude, and an ever present smile.
Last year, Payton was diagnosed with Sertoli-Leydig germ cell tumor of the ovary, a rare form of ovarian cancer that frequently and quickly spreads to other organs in the body. Payton underwent painful surgery and chemotherapy treatments. Sadly, another tumor has recently been detected and Payton will again undergo surgery and radiation. A champion and a trooper, this is has far from broken her spirit as she continues to lead her extraordinary life of achievements and enriching the lives of those around her.
The Children’s Wish Foundation is honoured to be granting a child like Payton a wish. Payton’s most heartfelt wish comes with a purpose, a selfless nature, and a determination to help others. Her wish is to travel with her family to a developing nation and volunteer. As her mother, Leah, describes it, Payton’s “thoughts were to help other kids in a less fortunate country to learn at school and to provide them the opportunity to play sports.”
Payton exemplifies the true meaning of goodwill. The fulfillment of her wish will go far in passing her gifts on to the lives of so many.
