Wish Kid to Wish Artist!

I love to share stories about our wish kids!

We really are one big Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan family. Once you become a part of our family, we’re delighted to welcome you and yours forever!

In addition to our wonderfully committed community volunteers (who may not have a “direct family affiliation” to Make-A-Wish), often, following their magical wish experiences, our wish families become extraordinary volunteers and fund raisers. Our wish kids and their loved ones are fabulous ambassadors for our mission, and each individual journey provides such inspiration…

Wish Kid Jessica in front of a Gingerbread Castle

I’m tickled to share a bit with you about a cheeky little four year old named Jessica who traveled to Walt Disney World Resort for her wish come true…

Wish Kid Jessica and Donald Duck share a loving hug!

In 1990 Jessica was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. At first, her family thought her leg pain might be “growing pains.” Yet, their pediatrician was concerned and that started Jessica’s amazing journey to recovery. Recovery that included three years of chemotherapy. That same special doctor referred Jessica’s mom to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan to allow Jessica and her parents to anticipate something positive to come through the rough road of her medical treatment. So we began our relationship 19 years ago and we’ve been bonded with Jessica and her family ever since!

Jessica’s mom instilled in her the importance of giving back. As a child, Jessica was a camper at a special summer camp for kids with cancer and 14 years later, she became one of the camp’s most dedicated counselors. Jessica loves making a positive difference, especially for other kids facing challenging circumstances.

Along with a big heart, Jessica has a very creative hand, too! She loves to paint and draw and she LOVES Christmas. In fact, she listens to Christmas music all year long! A few years ago her mom read in a Make-A-Wish newsletter that we were having a contest for artwork to grace our holiday cards, she knew Jessica would be perfect!

And she was…so began Jessica’s grown-up relationship with Make-A-Wish!

Jessica, all grown up!

2009 marks Jessica’s “fourth in a series” of Michigan holiday cards. Jessica has been an active volunteer for various events and activities, and now she is an active employee! Jessica, 23, has the Make-A-Wish title Duchess of Joyous Greetings and serves on our Misson Support and Fulfillment staff team. She’s eager to share a welcoming greeting as well as having quite a story to tell.

I love when we are able to keep our wish kids close so we can continue to share in life’s challenges and gifts. Together we are all part of our Make-A-Wish family. This year, in addition to Jessica’s card we have another delightful “wish kid” card designed by 9-year-old Nicholas. With proceeds from our cards supporting wish-granting, it’s an amazing way for wish kids to “give back” as well as a great way for supporters to understand the impact of a wish and share wish stories with loved ones during this special season.

So if you receive a Make-A-Wish card this holiday season with a sweet painting of a snowman or some adorable penguins on the front, please turn the card over to read a bit more of Jessica or Nicholas’ stories that are printed on the back. 

Better yet, order your greeting cards from Make-A-Wish of Michigan and help Jessica and Nicholas with their mission to give back. I promise their “winter-y” artwork will warm your heart this holiday season!

For more info visit www.wishmich.org/holidaycards.

Fondly,
Susan