Wish Inspires a Career in Cancer Research

Meet wish kid Savanna, a recent college graduate and future doctor. Her wish to have a horse was granted in 2015. Now, she dreams of becoming a doctor to help design new cancer treatments that can help kids like herself. We were lucky enough to have the chance to interview Savanna about what her wish meant to her.

Looking back on your wish, what did it mean to you to have your wish come true?

My wish gave me the hope to continue fighting. It was an overwhelmingly positive experience that I looked forward to before it was granted, and looked back on when treatment was difficult.

What was the lasting impact that your wish had on your life?

I credit my wish with my full recovery. My horse Ollie, was my shoulder to cry on, my physical therapy, and my motivation for the future. Without him, I wouldn’t have had the drive to keep pushing myself to get stronger.

Tell us about why you wanted to personally give back and help kids with cancer. Kids with cancer and other chronic illnesses are the most resilient and awe-inspiring people on earth. They deserve the best the world can offer. I am pursuing a PhD in biomedicine with a concentration in pharmacology and toxicology. This degree will allow me to design new treatments for cancer and other chronic illnesses.

Why do you think it is important to support Make-A-Wish?

It isn’t just about the wish. It’s about making kids feel like there is something worth fighting for and giving them a profoundly positive experience to hold onto. Make-A-Wish gives a voice to those with very little control over the world around them. They’re an incredible force of good in the world.

What would you say to someone who currently supports Make-A-Wish?

I would sincerely thank them for the difference they have made in countless children’s lives.

Dr. Douglas Scothorn, MD, PhD Chairman of National Make-A-Wish® Medical Advisory Council, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Mission Health, Asheville, NC