Hi!
Here at Kids Wish Network, we strive to make every wish truly special and go above and beyond the expectations of our wish families. I recently received a beautiful letter from the grandmother of Donny, one of my wish kids, and it completely confirmed that our hard work to make each wish unique and memorable is definitely worth going the extra mile. It is so nice to know that we are making a difference for these kids.
Donny’s only wish was for a big screen TV, and with the help of some awesome sponsors, we pulled through for him. His wish came in the form of a beautiful 46 inch flat screen, but we didn’t stop there. To make his wish even more special, we also got him a year of free digital cable.
I’ve posted below the inspiring words from his grandmother. What she doesn’t know is that I just sent another box yesterday with a personalized autographed 8 X 10 picture of Donny’s favorite musician: Gene Simmons of KISS. Mr. Simmons also sent an autographed clock! Hope Donny enjoys it!
Madeline
Wish Department
Dear Madeline,
My name is Irene. I am the proud grandmother of Donny, who today received a 46” television at his home here in El Paso from Kids Wish Network.
Now I know that “Dreams really do come true.” I also realize that your organization keeps its promises to the children. I’m also surprised at the way things materialized. Even though Donny has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, you came through for him. And, of course, we owe that to you. You are an angel in disguise. When my daughter told me about you and your concern, I seriously had doubts and I never imagined that you would follow through. I apologize! The trip to Florida sounded great, but we knew that Donny wouldn’t be able to handle the rides because he doesn’t have the strength to hold on. He can’t even lift his arms much less hold on to something.
The television is the ultimate gift a child with Duchenne can receive. He is really good at games. His concentration is unbelievable. He is very smart. He has trophies and certificates for all his hard work and accomplishments. I help my daughter and my Donny as much as possible. I don’t know if Lirna told you, I’m disabled myself, and neither one of us has a vehicle. My partner takes us when he is able. He is going through radiation therapy himself…
If there is a competition for “Mother of the Year,” I would nominate my daughter in a second. She lives, breathes, and would die for her son. She is a tiny 5’1” woman who weighs the same as Donny. And that will not stop her from anything that she has to do for Donny. She physically picks him up to transfer him from his chair to another chair or table. The perfect example would be to his doctor visits when they have to examine him.
My daughter has been to hell and back. I won’t go into specifics. She has a paralyzed finger in her left hand and has rods, pins and screws in her right arm. I could write a book on her life. I know in my heart that God chose an angel for Donny. “It’s his mother.” I can’t begin to tell you what she has gone through in her life.
I pray that you stay in touch with us, so you can see for yourself what a great family we are. If you ever come to El Paso, we would love to have you for dinner, we are great cooks. Mexican food is our specialty. Even if you would stop in El Paso for a quick and sincere hug from us.
Again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. We will never forget you. We know that you care. And “I have three angels in my world.” God Bless you now and forever.
Irene (Donny’s Grandmother)
