Wishful Thinking Newsletter Spring 2024

ON THE COVER

Wish Kid Julie from Lahaina not only had her wish to go to an Ivan Cornejo concert granted, she also got to meet the star!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jeff Higashi – Board Chair

Cayenne Pe‘a – Chair Elect and Treasurer

Scott Higashi – Secretary

Tom Calame

Julianne Erickson

Rick Fried

Michelle Ho

Charles Hunter

Todd Iacovelli

Martin Marino

Joe Medwetz

Brenda Mitchell

Darius Monsef

Katie Pickman

Dr. Angela Pratt

Jade Richardson

Mike Rompel

Keri Shepherd

Andrew Shimabukuro

Dr. Rupa Wong

Aaron Yamasaki

CONNECT WITH US @MAKEAWISHHAWAII

Aloha Wish ‘Ohana,

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and at Make-A-Wish Hawaii, we are excited to launch a new celebration of the power of wishes and the many people in our community who come together to grant them.

As magical as turning imagination into reality is for our wish kids, wishes themselves aren’t magic. They take people, time, and resources. And they are brought to life by WishMakers like you. This April marks our very first World Wish Month, in which we are inviting the community to invest in Make-A-Wish Hawaii and send a powerful message to local wish keiki: Every child with a critical illness deserves a wish to give them strength and hope, and we will stop at nothing to grant the wish of every eligible child across the state, as quickly as possible. Will you join us as a WishMaker this World Wish Month and learn more about donating your time, talent or treasure to make a difference in the lives of local keiki?

Looking ahead, I am thrilled to celebrate the heroes in our community who make wishes come true. This year’s WISH! Gala theme is Heroes Unite, a reflection of the many heroes across our islands dedicated to transforming the lives of local keiki with critical illnesses. I look forward to celebrating these heroes on May 18 at Sheraton Waikiki. I hope to see you there!

Our team works hard every day to grant the wish of every eligible child. I’m delighted to share that Make-A-Wish Hawaii has been recognized as one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Hawaii by Hawaii Business Magazine! Huge mahalo to our incredible team whose dedication and passion make our workplace truly extraordinary.

Much aloha,

Trini Kaopuiki Clark President and CEO

Wish Kid Liam helped greet guests at the Young Leaders Board’s new event: Cheers! Wishes for da Keiki.

Make-A-Wish Hawaii is named one of the Best Places to Work in Hawaii by Hawaii Business Magazine!

From Tears to Melodies of Hope: Lahaina teen fights cancer amidst fire tragedy

For 16-year-old Julie, riding a bus to her new school on another part of the island and passing the Lahaina fire devastation is a tough emotional journey. The sight hits hard every day, especially as she passes the remains of the neighborhood where she spent so many carefree days as a child.

In addition to the emotional aftermath of the fires, Julie has been simultaneously confronting the mental and physical trauma of a cancer diagnosis. Her sorrow deepened upon learning the heartbreaking news of a cherished friend also lost to the fires. This friend was meant to be part of Julie’s wish reveal picnic—a gathering intended to commemorate a dream she never believed could come true.

Julie’s wish was to see Ivan Cornejo in concert. Julie is a huge fan, and his music brings her such joy and comfort.

Her volunteer wish granters were thrilled to surprise her with the news that soon she’d be on her way to see her favorite artist in Seattle! They planned a beautiful picnic to celebrate and had even had a cake with Ivan’s photo on top, along with many other special touches just for Julie.

Her wish to attend an Ivan Cornejo concert was not just about experiencing the soulful melodies of her favorite artist; it symbolized a chance for Julie to embrace just being a teen. Julie is remarkable—not only bilingual in English and Spanish, but also a dedicated student with a creative soul. Ivan Cornejo is a multi-platinum, Mexican American singer-songwriter that captured Julie’s heart.

Julie was given the star treatment at the concert, entering the venue before other fans and soaking up the exciting atmosphere. When Ivan’s manager surprised Julie by telling her Ivan was excited to meet her, her eyes widened and she said, “He knows I’m here?!”

Julie and her sister enjoyed the show together from the front row. To her surprise, Ivan also invited Julie on stage!

Serenaded by her musical idol, he presented her with a grand bouquet, and the crowd erupted in applause.

“The wish means everything to me and my family. My family is so happy for me and thankful that I had this opportunity,” says Julie. “My mom says that she wanted to cry and did when she saw me up on stage, when Ivan gave me a huge bouquet and sang one of my favorite songs. I feel blessed to meet and hear my favorite artist sing live.”

After the concert, Julie and her family were able to talk story with Ivan backstage. He and Julie discussed life and their similarities, including a mutual interest in playing guitar. Ivan shared an unreleased song, an intimate preview that etched a memory in Julie’s heart forever. She was beyond excited to be one of the first fans to ever hear it.

Julie loves making bracelets and made several for Ivan. In a heartwarming gesture, he donned them immediately and promised to wear them proudly. When she and her family returned to the limo, Julie was beaming, and repeatedly said she “couldn’t believe that just happened.”

As the curtain rose that evening at the concert, so did Julie’s spirits.

“Going to Seattle and meeting Ivan changed my wellbeing for the better. I got closer with my family, met nice people, sang my heart out, and ate great food. Being there reminded me that I am strong, and I could get through anything. I’m thankful for Make-A-Wish Hawaii for making my dreams come true,” Julie says.

Her wish made an enormous difference in her life, allowing her to find joy, healing, and a sense of normalcy through the transformative power of music and her most heartfelt wish.

I wish to go to an Ivan Cornejo Concert

Julie, 16, Lahaina cancer

Mahalo to Goodfellow Bros. for making Julie’s wish come true!

LIFE-CHANGING WISHES

Enjoy a glimpse of recent wishes granted thanks to your generous support!

Zion’s Wish to have an Eagle Scout / Graduation Party

Despite battling a difficult autoimmune disease, 18-year-old Zion from Honolulu has soared to remarkable heights. One of his long-term goals was to become an Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the scouting program. The path is challenging— demanding dedication, leadership, and hard work. But Zion was undeterred by the obstacles ahead, even though his autoimmune disorder often left him feeling tired and limited in some of his physical abilities.

When faced with the question of what his most heartfelt wish is, Zion knew exactly what he wanted. He wished for a party, not just to commemorate his graduation from Moanalua High School, but also to celebrate becoming an Eagle Scout. Thanks to the generous support of D.R. Horton and the Schuler Family Foundation, Zion’s wish was granted!

Zion’s family, friends and teachers gathered for an epic celebration at Residence Inn Kapolei, where they were treated to Zion’s favorite foods, including a ramen bar. His family played music, danced hula, and enjoyed a special performance by Big Every Time (B.E.T.).

Mahalo, D.R. Horton and Schuler Family Foundation, for granting Zion’s wish!

“It meant the world to us. He can’t stop talking about it and it lifted his spirits.”

—JAMIE , WISH MOM

Hannah’s Wish to have a Hot Tub

Seventeen-year-old Hannah of Princeville enjoys many of the same activities as other teenage girls on the Garden Isle: swimming, riding horses, and surfing with her dad. But due to her seizure disorder, being nonverbal and unable to walk, she participates in these activities very differently than others. Despite her differences, she doesn’t let her limitations get her down—she is full of energy, smiles and laughter shared with her family.

Hannah finds freedom in movement and is happiest when she’s in the water. Her wish granters helped discover her most heartfelt wish to have a hot tub where she could have the freedom to enjoy the water and revel in its therapeutic benefits. Thanks to the generous support of the Beverly and James Phelps Foundation, Hannah’s wish came true! The impact is life changing. Hannah can now safely go into the water daily, enhancing her activities and supporting her home therapy program.

“It’s going to make a huge impact in her life,” says Hannah’s mom, Shana. “It’s just so wonderful that she has such a wonderful community and people that are helping to make everything that she has wanted come true.”

Mahalo to Beverly and James Phelps Foundation for granting Hannah’s wish!

I wish to have an Eagle Scout / Graduation Party Zion, 18, Honolulu autoimmune disorder

I wish to have a hot tub

Hannah, 17, Princeville seizure disorder

Watch Hannah’s wish being granted!

Lilly’s Wish to go to Walt Disney World®

Throughout her life, Lilly, 9, from Kihei has battled a genetic disorder that impacts her nerves and breathing. Despite the many physical challenges she faces, she is a happy and loving child who can express herself well through sign language, gestures and singing. The oldest of three, Lilly is a playful and caring big sister. She and little sister Lucy often spend time “playing princesses” as Ariel and Elsa, speaking in a language only they know. On special nights, they trade their role play and games for family time and photo books, pointing and giggling at their younger selves.

Lilly’s wish to meet her favorite princesses at Disney World came true this holiday season thanks to support from Red Cabin Foundation. Lilly lived her wish to the fullest! From the excitement of the parks to the family’s quiet time in their villa at Give Kids the World Village, Lilly’s challenges gave way to peace and joy as the family formed new memories that they are now happily making into new picture books for their collection. The confidence that Lilly’s wish inspired will continue to have a positive impact as she grows.

Mahalo to Red Cabin Foundation for granting Lilly’s wish!

I wish to go to Alaska and stay in an igloo

David, 13, Pearl City heart transplant

Recent Wishes

I wish to go to Walt Disney World®

Lilly, 9, Kihei respiratory failure

Mahalo to Cara Murray and Alvin Kim for granting David’s wish!

“Lilly’s Disney World wish has come at an important time in her life. It has been a year of many important milestones, and a decision this big has given her a new sense of pride and confidence.”

—LESLIE, WISH MOM

David’s Wish to go to Alaska and Stay in an Igloo

David, 13, of Pearl City is a hilarious young boy with a wonderful personality. His enduring positivity and sweetness shine through, despite the many challenges he’s faced in his young life. David has survived multiple surgeries, several serious strokes, and even cardiac arrest, leading to a heart transplant—a day his family celebrates as his new birthday.

David is recovering, although he still struggles with the lasting effects of the stroke and walks with a brace. His left side was heavily impacted, but he is strong and getting better every day. When considering his one true wish, David recalled a report he wrote on the Northern Lights and how amazing it would be to see the Aurora Borealis in person. He wished to go to Alaska!

David stayed in an igloo with a skylight, where he enjoyed a relaxing, spectacular view of the Northern Lights. During his wish, David also met reindeer and tried dog sledding. David’s wish not only provided unforgettable moments with loved ones, but renewed his strength as he continues therapy to recover from the stroke.

“David is still talking about how much fun he had. He keeps saying ‘when we go back’ so I guess we will be taking him back to Alaska one day!”

—MELANIE , WISH MOM

Mahalo to all who participated in Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s 11 annual Jingle Rock Run presented by Road Builders Corporation at Ko Olina Resort! Attendees walked side-by-side with wish kids and their families in this festive celebration.

Walkers, joggers, strollers and supporters helped raise more than $280,000 to make wishes come true for children battling critical illnesses across the state. Mahalo for your heartfelt generosity!

A special mahalo to Ko Olina Resort for hosting Jingle Rock Run! Participants enjoyed the games, activities, and refreshments on the expansive event lawn and the beautiful 2.5-mile stroll through the resort, passing all four lagoons.

Mahalo nui loa for joining us to celebrate the holiday season and the power of a wish come true. Watch the

Cheers to the Young Leaders Board for hosting a new event, Cheers! Wishes for da Keiki presented by Lemman Family Foundation. This rooftop party at Royal Hawaiian Center’s new venue, Ka Lewa Lanai, brought an elevated twist on treasured moments of the past.

Attendees enjoyed food and beverage stations, tarot readings, hair braiding and accessorizing, and some even got piercings! Thanks to generous sponsors and attendees participating in fundraising activities, this event raised more than $100,000

Special mahalo to Wish Kids Vivienne, Alyssa, David and Liam for greeting guests as they arrived!

Spreading Cheer on Maui

In December, more than a dozen wish kids and their families joined Make-AWish Hawaii to celebrate the holiday season at Valley Isle Fellowship Church.

Keiki enjoyed snow, bubbles, hot cocoa, and a special visit from Santa Claus! Thanks to generous donations from the community through Maui Mompreneur’s toy drive, each child went home with a gift.

A special mahalo to the many local businesses who helped make this event magical!

Millwood ‘Ohana Productions

Sharing Aloha Through Community

David Lopaka Millwood, a Hawaii-based event producer, entrepreneur, and founder of Millwood ‘Ohana Productions, has been contributing to the local community for over three decades. Known affectionately as “The Pineapple Guy,” he’s the force behind some of Hawaii’s most memorable events for three brands: Experience Nutridge Luau, Nutridge Estate Venue, and Oahu Festival Events.

David is deeply committed to supporting the local community through charitable endeavors, with Make-A-Wish Hawaii among his top priorities. Millwood ‘Ohana Productions has donated nearly $65,000 to Make-A-Wish Hawaii over the last 5 years.

Reflecting on his support, David says, “There’s a special place in my heart for our local keiki. It’s an honor for me to bring the community together to rally support to make their most heartfelt wishes come true.”

Through signature events like the Waikiki Street Jam and Lokahi Festival, Millwood ‘Ohana Productions has raised critical funds for Make-A-Wish Hawaii, bringing hope to children battling critical illnesses. The company’s ethos revolves around celebrating Hawaiian culture, fostering community engagement, and ensuring each event is a memorable experience, highlighting local talent and vendors.

Mahalo, Millwood ‘Ohana Productions, for sharing your aloha with others and supporting the transformational power of a wish! We extend our deepest gratitude and are incredibly thankful for the beautiful heart you demonstrate through your continued support of life-changing wishes for keiki across the islands.

RECENT CAMPAIGNS

Subaru Hawai‘i Share The Love

Mahalo to Subaru Hawai‘i for supporting Make-A-Wish Hawaii through its Share the Love sales event, which raised $15,000 to transform the lives of children with critical illnesses in Hawaii through the power of a wish. Thanks to Subaru Hawai‘i’s generous support, wishes are granted for keiki like 10-year-old Lincoln from Waikoloa, who is battling cancer and was featured in the commercial with his mom, Kalisi. Wishes are powerful medicine that give children like Lincoln the hope and strength to fight harder against their illnesses, reclaim their childhoods and envision a brighter future. Watch Lincoln’s starring role in the commercial!

First Hawaiian Bank Says ‘Yes’ to Wishes

A heartfelt mahalo to First Hawaiian Bank employees and retirees for their generous donation of $42,884 to Make-A-Wish Hawaii through the Kokua Mai Employee Giving Campaign! This gift will help keiki across the state experience the transformative power of a wish. Mahalo to First Hawaiian Bank for investing in our community through organizations like ours for over 165 years.

Ready, Set, Wish!

Mahalo to Pacific Telecommunications Council for selecting Make-A-Wish Hawaii as the beneficiary of its 5K race through Waikiki! These dedicated runners raised an incredible $12,000 to grant wishes for keiki with critical illnesses in Hawaii. We are so grateful for their continued support!

BOARD SPOTLIGHT

Julianne Erickson

Community Volunteer

Julianne Erickson’s introduction to Make-A-Wish Hawaii was a special one; she participated in Daidap’s wish to be a police officer. Watching his face light up as he drove around in a miniature electric police car while dressed in full uniform with Honolulu Police Department officers saluting him was incredibly touching. An example of a wish impacting not only the wish child, but an entire community, Julianne’s involvement grew over the years and today she serves on the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.

“I’m proud to be an ambassador for an organization that truly makes a difference,” Julianne says. Her husband, Rich, was a board member before her, and their sons, Hunter and Finn, serve on the Youth Leadership Council. The entire family participates in events and wish reveals.

“Through the years, I’ve been able to witness the profound impact that wishes have on our wish families as well as the impact it has on the volunteers who are able to experience the power of these life-changing wishes.”

AULANI WISH WEEK

Randi Lau

Client Advisor

American Floor & Home

Randi Lau’s journey with Make-A-Wish Hawaii began by attending events and volunteering as a Wish Ambassador, an on-island resource for visiting wish kids. Since joining the Young Leaders Board (YLB), she’s deepened her involvement by helping to plan events, offering insights for creative fundraising initiatives, and serving as a co-chair of a Jingle Rock Run Leadership Challenge team. She was particularly moved by her experience at Jingle Rock Run. “Attending an event of this magnitude and getting to see all the joy and holiday spirit of local wish families and the support of our community really served as a poignant reminder that our efforts are touching the lives of our keiki in so many meaningful ways,” she says.

Randi aspires for the YLB to continue generating innovative, engaging methods to raise awareness of our mission. “Ultimately, I hope our board serves as a source of inspiration for other young professionals and emerging leaders, encouraging them to engage with philanthropic endeavors and work toward effecting positive change within our local community.”

Make-A-Wish Hawaii is partnering with Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, to hold Aulani Wish Week, an immersive themed group wish experience for children who wish to go to Aulani. This group wish experience welcomes families from across the United States and Canada for a five-night stay packed with magical experiences.

Aulani Wish Week is a special opportunity for wish kids and their families to connect and share the power of a wish together. A wish reminds them that they are not alone, and that there are communities across the nation and right here in Hawaii who care and support them.

The first Aulani Wish Week in October welcomed 20 wish families and was such a success that Make-A-Wish Hawaii and Aulani Resort are hosting three in 2024.

Special mahalo to Make-A-Wish Hawaii board member and senior sales and services director at Aulani Resort, Joe Medwetz, for helping to make Aulani Wish Week possible!

YLB SPOTLIGHT

SHERATON WAIKIKI

MAY 18, 2024 Wish

From medical partners and volunteers to generous supporters, we are immensely grateful for the many heroes across our islands dedicated to transforming the lives of local keiki with critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish Hawaii is pleased to bring these heroes together in celebration of the power of a wish at our 13th annual gala, WISH! Heroes Unite, on Saturday, May 18 at Sheraton Waikiki.

Together, we’ll honor wish children and their families, who are truly our heroes—fighting difficult diagnoses and long hospital stays with courage, resilience, and hope. It will be an unforgettable evening as we celebrate wish heroes within our community.

Your partnership is vital in giving children with critical illnesses superhero strength, empowering them to imagine life beyond illness. We hope you’ll join forces with us as we channel the greatest superpower of all: transforming lives, one wish at a time.

WISH! Heroes Unite is expected to sell out. To learn about sponsorship opportunities and reserve your table, please contact Arden Salassa, Senior Manager of Corporate Philanthropy and Partnerships, at asalassa@hawaii.wish.org.

To learn more about WISH! Heroes Unite, visit wishgalahawaii.com.

MEET THE HONOREES!

Corporate Partner of the Year

Foundations Hawaii

WISH! Heroes Unite will celebrate select supporters who channel their unique superpowers to impact the lives of our wish families. From corporate and medical partners to magic makers, volunteers and leaders, many people come together to transform lives, one wish at a time. We are immensely grateful to each honoree for their heartfelt support.

Former board member Kevin Pena first witnessed the power of a wish when a friend’s daughter was battling leukemia. Since then, he and his team at Foundations Hawaii, a concrete contractor serving Hawaii for the past 28 years, have been dedicated to making a difference in the lives of local wish kids. Through generous individual gifts and sponsorships for events like our annual Wish! Gala and Swing for Wishes golf tournament, they have helped grant numerous life-changing wishes for keiki like 12-year-old Exalted, who wished to have a gaming computer. Says Kevin, “One of my core beliefs is to give back. I feel it’s an important part of sharing what we have been blessed with so others may benefit as well.” Kevin and the entire Foundations Hawaii team live this value in all they do, and they are truly heroes to all of us at Make-A-Wish Hawaii.

Wish Family of the Year

Wish Kid Max and his ‘Ohana

After an “epic” wish to meet the developers of his favorite game, Minecraft, two years ago, 13-year-old Max and his ‘ohana have been dedicated to wishing it forward, ensuring other families experience the same magic and joy they felt during their wish journey. Max’s family consistently goes above and beyond to support wish kids near and far, from fundraising for our annual holiday walk, Jingle Rock Run, and sharing their story at local events to developing an online resource that educates visiting wish kids about the unique qualities of our islands in a fun, engaging way. Says Max’s family, “For us, the wish journey is not over. It’s just beginning.” From our ‘ohana to yours, Max, we could not be more excited to celebrate you and your family as our Wish Family of the Year!

Leadership Award Jeff Higashi

As a senior vice president and regional manager at First Hawaiian Bank and board member for three local organizations, Jeff Higashi is an accomplished and active local leader. Over the past 12 years, he has advanced our mission in numerous ways, acting as a board member, board chair, advisor to both the wish granting and finance committees, and volunteer to several Hawaii wish families. His compassion and humility make him a standout leader, ever inspiring the rest of our leadership team, our staff, and—of course—our wish kids. Jeff is especially a hero to our Wish Family of the Year, Max and his ‘ohana, having granted Max’s wish firsthand! Says Jeff, “I always want to do the best not only for our organization but for the team that’s here creating magic every day.” Jeff has earned our Leadership Award and the sincere gratitude of our entire Make-A-Wish ‘ohana—mahalo, Jeff!

Medical Partner of the Year

Mary Mullis

As an oncology social worker at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children, Mary Mullis provides children fighting critical illnesses and their families with everything from financial and practical resources to emotional support. Most importantly, she provides them with hope. A large part of this important work comes from her belief in the life-changing power of a wish from having seen firsthand how wishes reframe a treatment experience that often starts with grief and anxiety, to joy and resilience.

Over the past eight years, she has referred nearly 200 local keiki to MakeA-Wish Hawaii, consistently leading the state in medical referrals. We are immensely grateful for Mary’s continued partnership and tremendous heart for our mission, and we are honored to celebrate her as our Medical Partner of the Year.

Volunteers of the Year

Jenny Nakama and Keola Brown

Maui wish granters Jenny Nakama and Keola Brown are heroes in every sense of the word. During this year’s tragic fire in Lahaina, Jenny brought critical supplies to first responders through her work with the Maui Police Department. She and her wish granting partner, Keola, also made sure to check in on their wish families, even delivering groceries to those displaced by the fire. This dedication has been evident since Jenny and Keola began volunteering two years ago. In addition to creating lasting memories for local wish keiki through exciting wish reveal parties and life-changing wishes come true, the pair has also volunteered at every Make-A-Wish event on island. Jenny and Keola truly embody the heart and care that makes our mission possible, and we’re proud to recognize them as our Volunteers of the Year!

Magic Maker of the Year Ryan Kalei Tsuji

A successful business owner, philanthropist, communications professional, and community leader, Ryan Kalei Tsuji makes magic possible wherever he goes–and over the past seven years, he has left an indelible mark on Make-A-Wish Hawaii. Having grown up with a sibling who battled leukemia, he is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of other families fighting critical illnesses. During his tenure on our Young Leaders Board, Ryan helped create the successful Wine for Wishes event, expanded efforts to welcome visiting wish kids to Hawaii, developed networking meetings to engage other young professionals in our mission, and emceed several fundraising events. Over the course of his career, Ryan has been honored with numerous accolades, including PBN’s 40 Under 40, Hawaii Business Magazine’s 20 for the Next 20, and Pacific Edge Magazine’s Young Professional of the Year award. Now, his passion, drive, and vision have earned him our Magic Maker of the Year award!