It was a special and rare instance for me to be able to share in a magical experience last weekend. This past Saturday, I was fortunate enough to be able to spend the afternoon with a very special wish child and a “jolly ol’ soul” in a red suit.

From my very first conversation with Kira, she wiggled her way right into my heart. She’s very sweet and humble 9 year-old who is thankful for all that she has. When I asked her what it was that she wanted for her wish, she said a Petco gift card for her dog. She paused a moment then said, “What I really want to do is go on a shopping spree!” “Wiregrass,” she continued, “is my favorite place to shop.”

With the assistance of some special elves from The Shops at Wiregrass, Kira had her wish for a shopping spree come true. Kira’s day began at Petco where, thanks to the generosity of their kind-hearted employees, she was able to purchase a few items for her special little Lhasa Apso, Sammy. Next stop- the mall! There, Santa’s Chief Elf, Chad Doritan (Marketing Director of The Shops at Wiregrass), really went to work. First, there was shopping and lunch at Grillsmith, then a make-over at hq Aveda. Looking beautiful, Kira enjoyed a special meeting with Santa, followed by the opportunity to guest conduct along side the famous northerner for the Symphony in Lights Celebration. High above the crowd, Santa and Kira led the orchestral light show. After a serenade by the Alan Darcy Group, Kira’s night ended with dinner at Yamato.

It was my special pleasure as a Wish Coordinator to be able to share in this special day with Kira and her family. All of my kids are special, but every once in a while you come across one that grabs hold of your heart. Kira is one such child. This is due in part to the fact that I am a carrier of the Cystic Fibrosis gene, and there was a chance that my own child could have been afflicted with this illness. I am very thankful everyday that my own daughter is healthy.

Thank you for the chance to get to know you, Kira. Your heart, your courage and your smiles are inspirational!

Jen
Wish Department