We recently shared Willie’s story with you — one of so many inspirational stories of kids who wish to give back for the care they received and to share joy with those who’ve touched their lives.

It warms our hearts to see our community come together in support of children like Willie. We hope you’ll join with them today and make a special donation to Make-A-Wish^®.

With your gift today, you’ll give kids like Willie strength to keep fighting their critical illnesses, the chance to be kids again, and joy that they’ll share with others.

Kindness can come in many forms, including a pizza pen and celebratory lunch. Kindness also comes in the form of your support for Make-A-Wish, a gift that reaches far and wide and keeps giving.

Thank you,
Becca Blader
Senior Manager, Integrated Fundraising
Make-A-Wish


---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Make-A-Wish <[email protected]>
Date: Sat, Jan 11, 2025
Subject: Willie pays it forward with pizza
To: [email protected]

Willie was a happy and healthy little boy who loved pizza. But at 4 ½ years old, everything changed.

He started to get frequent colds. And after a long night spent in the hospital with a high fever, Willie and his family got the devastating news. Willie was in renal failure.

But through all the difficult tests, medications, and procedures that came after his diagnosis, Willie noticed something extraordinary – the kindness of the medical team that helped him through his hardest moments. That sparked something remarkable within Willie.

When asked about his wish, Willie had a unique wish in mind: he wished to give back to his medical team.

Willie’s eyes shined bright with purpose. He told his mom, “I want to do more.” Even in his most challenging moments, he wanted to lift others up.

So, Willie and our wish team set off to create gift bags for the nurses. Willie wanted to include special touches to remind his team of him: a pizza pen and a handwritten note, as well as self-care goodies. Then came a joyful pizza party for Willie and his medical team.

Willie reminds us that every gift you give to Make-A-Wish^® can have a ripple effect, touching not just one life but many – wish kids, their families, friends, community members and caregivers.

Grant a wish that keeps giving

People like you lit up Willie’s life and he, in turn, shared his joy with others. Thank you for changing the lives of wish kids and touching the hearts of all who support them.

With gratitude,
Make-A-Wish