At Kids Wish Network we all feel so fortunate to be able to have time off to enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas day, and all the pleasures of the holiday, with our families.

Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas.

Donna
Development Diva

Within the hour the wonderful “Michigan Guardian Angel” called me and wanted to know all she could about each child. She was so nice; I could tell she had a big heart. She wanted so badly to help each child with their wish.

What happened next was probably one of the biggest surprises I’ve had since I’ve worked at Kids Wish Network. This wonderful “Michigan Angel” gave a portion of her donation to each child’s wish. This means that every wish child I have who lives in Michigan will receive help from this very special lady.

I talk to our Guardian Angels quite often and they’re wonderful people, but this lady was so amazing that I could barely speak when I hung up the phone! I hope she knows just how special she is and that she’s bringing happiness and lasting memories to the children she helped!

So, because of this, I want to say a very special thank you to this very special lady from Michigan – it is a huge help to so many children!

Megan
Development Diva

Doris
Development Department

For me, the holidays are a time to spend with family and friends; a time for giving, wonderful food and smiling faces. Very little brings me more joy than seeing the looks on the faces of my family members when they receive the perfect gift. Excitement, laughter and anticipation is everywhere.

Even though the malls are filled with people rushing to buy last minute gifts, there is a certain glow on their faces and a twinkle in their eyes. And even though times are tough, the holidays give us hope and much needed togetherness.

I hear stories this time of the year from wish sponsors about all they are doing to make this time of year special for those in need. Their hearts go out to those who can’t afford the simple things in life and they jump on the chance to help.

The Holidays are a wonderful time! I want to wish all of our wish children, their families, and everyone at Kids Wish Network a very happy and safe holiday season.

Megan
Development Department

Melissa
Development Department

Cindy was only 6 years old when she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. She has since endured many surgeries and has survived both respiratory and kidney failures. Through it all Cindy maintains a positive outlook on life and you can actually see it in her face. She has a smile that just radiates her warmth and kindness.

The Tall Cedars of Lebanon sponsored a large part of Cindy’s wish costs, so I can’t wait to let them know about her visit with the Steelers and all the other wonderful activities she will experience.

Enjoy, Cindy, you deserve it!

Donna
Development Department

For me, my children and my grandchildren are fed, warm and, more precious than that, they are healthy.

The kids we help here at Kids Wish Network have such resilience and it warms my heart to know that even though we can’t change what life has dealt them, as far as their health goes, we can and do put those smiles back on their faces and in their hearts.

Doris
Development Department

What happened next is one of the many reasons I do what I do; I got to tell everyone WHY I work at Kids Wish Network. It’s such a wonderful and rewarding feeling to fund wishes for these very special children, I told them. It’s great to give them a glimmer of happiness that they will never forget. I learn about new places and towns I otherwise never would have heard of.

I really enjoy telling people about what I do at work all day: helping to make wishes come true for hundreds of children.

How many people in this world can say that?

Megan
Development Department

Melissa
Development Department

So, on Saturday, Jennifer (Kira’s Wish Coordinator) and I were off to the mall to meet Kira. Our first stop was Aveda for Kira’s makeover. Aveda did her hair and makeup and made her look like a star. Next, Kira went to her favorite store, Justice. Jennifer and I got a special fashion show from Kira herself. She struck poses for the camera. It was so adorable!

After Kira shopped at Justice, she had to get dressed for her big performance. We were taken to a special location in the back of the mall. When we arrived, another surprise was waiting: SANTA! Santa was sitting in a chair, waiting to meet Kira one on one. I think everyone was quite surprised to see him.

Next, it was time for Kira’s big moment: to conduct the lighting of the tree ceremony to music with Santa. She was so high in the air so everyone could see her. When Santa introduced his special guest, I think I cheered the loudest! I was jumping and screaming and waving my arms. It was such a great moment.

Once Kira was reunited with her family, we all went to see Kira and her sister onstage. The band sang “Brown Eyed Girl” with a twist to include both Kira and her sister.

After a few photos, it was time to go. I think we were all sad it had to end. One of the greatest moments was when Kira’s Mother kept thanking us. I thanked her for giving me the opportunity to share this special time with Kira and her family. The whole day really made what I do seem more real for me. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I don’t think I will ever forget Kira’s smiling face.

The Wiregrass Mall really outdid themselves. It was a spectacular day, one I will cherish always.

Megan
Development Department