Dec. 20, 1999

A 14-year-old cancer patient had his wish come true today when he became a published author. News Specialist Shelley Osterloh reports his book -- two years in the making -- is about his life's struggle against cancer.

With the click of mouse, Brandt Yardley started the machines to print his book.

Brandt was four years old when he was first diagnosed with a brain tumor. Now, after four major surgeries and a year and half of chemotherapy, his cancer seems to be in remission, although a small part of the tumor is still there above his left ear.

Brandt Yardley/Published Author: "My tumor makes it so I can't learn as much or I don't learn like other kids. I can learn through listening."

It also means he struggles with reading and writing, so the one thing he wanted to do was write a book. The Make A Wish Foundation teamed Brandt with a professional writer who, through a series of interviews, has created the book, called "Brandt's Wish."

Co-author Lorraine Thompson hopes adults and children who read it will better understand those who battle cancer.

Lorraine Thompson/co-author "Brandt's Wish": "That they may have a little more compassion. But even beyond that, they will have more personal desire to develop their gifts and abilities."

As family and friends from Beaver Utah watch, Brandt saw his book, printed, bound and cut. A moment of triumph in a life marked with many tragic challenges and hopeful recoveries.

Sandra Lord/Make A Wish Foundation: "He continually reminds me about what's important. It's not your accomplishments, it's not what possessions you have. It's the kind of lives you touch and the kind of love you share with other people."

The 250 page book, published by Alexander's Digital Printing, is dedicated to other fighters and survivors.

Brandt Yardley/Published Author: "I'm feeling excited and hoping it will be a success."

Brandt's Wish has come true, but his hope is that his story will touch the hearts of those who read it.

"Brandt's Wish" is on sale at several businesses in his home town, of Beaver, and may eventually be in local book stores.

Brandt's e-mail: brandtswish@netutah.com

Also check this web site: www.1ezstop.com/wish