Cayenne Pe‘a
Board Chair
Tricia Fujikawa Lee
Treasurer
Travis Kikuchi
Secretary
Todd Bedford
Deanna Butler
Tom Calame
Erik DeRyke
Julianne Erickson
Rick Fried
Michelle Ho
Charles Hunter
Todd Iacovelli
Martin Marino
Joe Medwetz
Brenda Mitchell
Katie Pickman
Dr. Angela Pratt
Jade Richardson
Mike Rompel
Ed Schultz
Andrew Shimabukuro
Garret Sugai
Dr. Rupa Wong
Aaron Yamasaki
At Make-A-Wish Hawaii, we believe the wild of our imagination is where wonder lives—and tonight, surrounded by nature’s inspiration, we’re reminded just how powerful a wish can be.
Wishes offer more than an escape; they awaken something bold and beautiful in a child facing unimaginable challenges. They help our keiki dream again, explore again, and believe in the possibility of healing.
Thanks to donors like you, the transformative power of a wish reaches keiki across Hawaii. Whether you’re a sponsor, guest, volunteer, or partner, your generosity creates a path forward— through the unknown and into the extraordinary.
As we gather to celebrate wild adventures, heartfelt wishes, and unforgettable joy, I invite you to reflect on the impact you’ve made by being here tonight. Together, we are building a future where every eligible child in Hawaii has the chance to journey beyond illness and into hope.
Mahalo nui loa for joining us tonight—and for being part of this incredible community of WishMakers.
Trini Kaopuiki Clark President and CEO Make-A-Wish Hawaii
5:30 p.m.
Cocktails
Mingle with Wish Kids
6:30 p.m.
Emcees Ashley Nagaoka and Ryan Kalei Tsuji, Hawaii News Now
If You Wish!
Preview of select Premier Auction packages
7:30 p.m.
Premier Auction Closes
Congratulations to the Honorees!
Fund-A-Wish
Eric Schiff and Ryan Kalei Tsuji
Raise your paddle or participate at wishgalahawaii.com
8:30 p.m.
Dancing to Live Music by The Spazmatics
9:00 p.m.
Online Auction Closes
10:30 p.m.
Pau. Mahalo for joining us!
Unofficial After Party at The Lei Stand Waikiki
Construction and wish granting have a lot in common: each requires a vision, a plan, and a creative team dedicated to turning ideas into reality. That’s why Swinerton–a national construction company with a deep commitment to our local community–intuitively understands what it takes to help Hawai’i wish kids build toward brighter futures. Inspired by the “profound and lasting impact of a wish,” board member Aaron Yamasaki and his Honolulu-based team at Swinerton have become invaluable partners in creating life-changing wishes for our keiki and their ‘ohana. From granting Krayson’s wish to have a sensory clubhouse to sponsoring major annual fundraising events like Swing for Wishes and generously contributing to the Wishes Forever Endowment Fund, the team at Swinerton ensures a lasting impact of their own in all they do. A heartfelt mahalo to Aaron and the entire team for sparking imagination and creating hope, one wish at a time!
When Christie Robello’s youngest son, Joseph, was diagnosed with cancer, she felt overwhelmed with emotion. But amid the fear and anxiety surrounding his illness, the prospect of a wish ushered in hope and strength for the entire ‘ohana. From the support of her son’s wish granting volunteers to the sheer joy on Joseph’s face when his wish to meet Mickey Mouse came true, the entire journey was pure magic. Since then, Christie has devoted her time to giving back, ensuring other local families may also experience the life-changing power of a wish. As a wish granter, Christie consistently goes above and beyond to create memorable wishes of the highest quality. Her sons, Joseph and Jonah, join her in volunteering at events, and Jonah serves on the Youth Leadership Council. Even in our “wildest” dreams, we couldn’t imagine a more perfect example of the power of wishing it forward–mahalo, Christie!
Dr. Kelley Hutchins, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children, touches the lives of wish keiki every day, helping them navigate life-altering diagnoses with expert medical care and immense heart. Dr. Hutchins has seen firsthand how a wish can be an integral part of a child’s treatment plan, empowering them to envision life beyond illness. Kyra, a 16-year-old from Kapolei who credits Dr. Hutchins with saving her life, found “light and joy” from her wish to have a shopping spree during her fight with lymphoma. Dr. Hutchins has referred more than 80 patients like Kyra to MakeA-Wish Hawaii over the past six years and is an active member of our Medical Advisory Board and a volunteer Wish Granter. She is also an ardent advocate for our mission, even joining Kyra on a local news segment to inform and engage others in the community. We are proud to recognize Dr. Hutchins as our Medical Partner of the Year!
An aspiring political science major with dreams of studying on the mainland, 17-year-old Honolulu wish kid Pomai looks to the future with optimism and courage. But an unexpected leukemia diagnosis–and the ensuing nausea and holidays spent in the hospital–caused “the light in him to go out for a while,” says Pomai’s family. When his wish to go skiing in Utah came true, that light returned, allowing Pomai to once again envision life beyond illness. And with two physicians in the family who witnessed firsthand how vital hope is to healing, the entire ‘ohana has since been dedicated to giving back, spending their holidays not in the hospital but instead wishing it forward at Jingle Rock Run and other events. Pomai also serves on our Youth Leadership Council, helping to bring more transformational wishes to life for fellow keiki fighting critical illnesses. We are so proud to recognize Pomai and his ‘ohana as our wish family of the year!
The forward-thinking minds at the helm of Leadership Works–a world-class local business development and consulting company–Glenn Furuya and Debbie Bacon are expert leaders with a shared passion for investing in others. And when a chance encounter with wish kid Reece at Jingle Rock Run 10 years ago inspired them to make a sizable donation in his name, it began a truly remarkable partnership that has uplifted and empowered our entire wish ‘ohana. In addition to adopting several local wishes, Glenn and Debbie are using their natural talent for developing people and organizations to help lay the foundation for more life-changing wishes well into the future–partnering with wish kid Taiyo’s parents to establish the Wishes Forever Endowment Fund and recruiting fellow donors. Mahalo, Debbie and Glenn, for believing in our vision of reaching every eligible child in Hawaii with the power of a wish!
As a Disney® resort, bringing magic to life for children and their families is what Aulani does best. And as a longtime Make-A-Wish Hawaii partner that graciously hosts hundreds of local and visiting wish families every year, it’s no surprise that Aulani has earned our Magic Maker of the Year award! From staycations and wishes to dance with Mickey Mouse on the beach to “Wish Weeks” that bring numerous wish families together, Aulani has been the site of more than 1,575 transformational wishes over the past 10 years. Aulani also consistently supports our mission through generous donations and special touches at events like Jingle Rock Run (think Mickey Mouseshaped treats and beloved characters in festive outfits ready to cheer on our wish kids!). We could not be more grateful to the Aulani cast for helping to give keiki with critical illnesses the opportunity to recapture the magic of their childhoods and create memories that will last a lifetime.
You’ll find hundreds of items in a variety of categories including sports and recreation, food, dining and entertainment, and much more!
Premier auction closes at 7:30 p.m. Silent Auction closes at 9:00 p.m.
The featured premier packages offer a chance at a variety of wildly amazing opportunities — from exclusive rounds of golf and a private tea party to a luxurious beachside escape!
Your auction purchase helps children with critical illnesses replace fear with hope and sadness with joy as they embrace the fun and excitement of a wish come true.
For full details on each premier auction item and more, visit wishgalahawaii.com.
Escape to ‘The Royal Beach House’ at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows—an oceanfront oasis on Maui’s Kaanapali Beach—for a three-night stay. This private estate welcomes up to 14 guests and features an executive kitchen, pool, hot tub and more. Enjoy tropical charm, modern comforts, and live, local mele at ‘The Branches’ for unforgettable memories. Starting Bid: $7,000
For full details on each premier auction item and more, visit wishgalahawaii.com.
Welcome to the Wish Lab—where wishes are brought to life. This is a chance to show your support to Make-A-Wish Hawaii families and volunteers for an entire year. The package includes your name and/ or logo displayed at the headquarters, where you’re invited to host your own meeting or party.
Starting Bid: $10,000
Value: Priceless
With four roundtrip first-class tickets from Alaska Airlines, your wildest escape awaits. No blackout dates mean you can choose your ultimate adventure—whether you’re chasing the northern lights, exploring untamed coastlines, or trekking through vibrant cities. You and your travel pack could be off on a first-class adventure to any destination Alaska Airlines flies.
Expires: May 3, 2026
Starting Bid: $4,000
Value: $8,000
Donated by: Alaska Airlines
Enjoy a luxury retreat on Oahu’s North Shore with a three-night stay in a 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom Waialua beachfront home. This custom-built masterpiece with interior and exterior living spaces promises an unforgettable family getaway. No weddings or parties. Maximum 8 guests.
Starting Bid: $2,000 Value: $4,000
Donated by: Don & Deanna Butler
You and two guests will enjoy a round of golf with a member at the exclusive Chicago Golf Club. As the first 18-hole course in America, it offers a traditional experience—no rangefinders, no cell phones, just walking the historic grounds designed by C.B. MacDonald and Seth Raynor. Ranked #12 on Golf.com’s Top 100 Courses.
Expires: May 3, 2026
Starting bid: $2,500
Value: Priceless
Donated by: Scott and Rachel Bradley
You and two guests will play a round of golf with a member at the exclusive San Francisco Golf Club. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast in 1915, this walk-only course offers a timeless, caddie-led experience that honors the game’s roots. Ranked #22 on Golf.com’s Top 100 Courses.
Expires: May 3, 2026
HAWAI‘I ISLAND ESCAPE
A round of golf and lunch for three hosted by a member who knows the course inside and out.
Starting Bid: $2,500
Value: Priceless
Donated by: Scott and Rachel Bradley
Nanea Golf Club is an exclusive golfing retreat on the west coast of Hawai‘i Island, situated 15 miles north of Kailua-Kona. Set amongst dark lava fields on the seaward side of the volcanic Hualalai. The course was designed by Scottish architect David McLay Kidd and first opened for play in 2003. Kidd spared no expense to shape the land into an authentic British-style links course. Currently ranked #83 in the Top 100 by Golf. com. This package also includes 45,000 HawaiianMiles.
Expires: May 3, 2026
Starting Bid: $5,000 Value: Priceless
Donated by: Matt Pakkala
Score four Owner’s Seats in the Premium Field Club Section for a San Francisco Giants baseball game in the 2025 season. Please view the game schedule and restrictions on the Giants website at www.sfgiants.com. The game reservation may be subject to change. Plus, enjoy a luxurious three-night stay at Palace Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel in San Francisco. This package also includes 100,000 HawaiianMiles.
Starting Bid: $5,000 Value: Priceless
Donated by: Duane Kurisu, Kyo-ya Hotel & Resorts/Palace Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Hawaiian Airlines
Step into Waikiki’s golden era with Mu‘u & Mimosas, a private tea party for up to 20 guests at Kaimana Beach Hotel in partnership with Summer Club. Enjoy island mimosas, Hobbs Tea from Kauai, craft cocktails, sweet and savory delights, live entertainment, and more.
Starting Bid: $2,500 Value: $5,000
Donated by: Kaimana Beach Hotel & Highgate Hawaii
For full details on each premier auction item and more, visit wishgalahawaii.com.
I wish to meet and perform with Mr. Rob Atticus, 9, Laie heart condition
At 24 weeks pregnant, due to a medical complication, Aliah was given three hours to pack a hospital bag and prepare to say goodbye. Her baby, still months from full term, was unlikely to survive. Born at just 1 pound, 6 ounces, Atticus was extremely fragile and smaller than her hands.
“They told us there was a slim chance we both might make it. And somehow, we did,” Aliah, his mom, remembers.
Atticus then spent nearly a year in the hospital and underwent open-heart surgery at four months old. He came home on the highest level of oxygen support allowed, fed through a G-tube, and unable to lift his own head.
“We found out later, they didn’t expect him to live when we brought him home. But he didn’t just live. He kept doing more and more and more.”
Then one day, as a toddler still unable to walk or speak, Atticus crawled to a toy piano and played London Bridge by ear. The sound filled the room, and Aliah stopped in awe.
“He couldn’t even talk or walk at the time,” she says. “He would just crawl around and play piano.”
Because Atticus has limited verbal ability, music became his language. It is how he communicates, feels joy, and connects with others. Every day, he plays on any number of the dozen or more instruments that fill their home with joyful sound.
So, when a nurse quietly referred him to Make-A-Wish, and Atticus was asked what he wanted most in the world, the answer was clear: he wanted to meet and perform with his musical hero, Mr. Rob of Prodigies Music.
“He’s watched every video of Mr. Rob,” Aliah says. “And if you ask him what his wish is, he’ll tell you, ‘I’m going to meet Mr. Rob.’”
Make-A-Wish entered their lives like a breath of fresh air. It didn’t just promise a special day, it gave their family something to look forward to, talk about, and rally around. The wish rekindled excitement, playfulness, and purpose in their everyday routines.
Though the wish itself is still ahead, its impact has already taken root, restoring joy, imagination, and belief in what’s possible.
“The anticipation, it lifts him,” Aliah says. “He asks about it constantly. It keeps him dreaming.”
This is what Make-A-Wish Hawaii provides—the healing power of joy, and the unshakable belief that the best parts of wish kids’ stories are still being written.
Titus, 9, Kamuela neuromuscular disorder
Nine-year-old Titus from Kamuela has always had a deep love for animals, but the capybara captured his heart, becoming a symbol of strength and joy.
As Titus’ neuromuscular disorder made everyday activities more difficult, he leaned on the happiness that his favorite animal brought him, and he wished to meet one. He and his family traveled to San Diego to meet capybaras at Nurtured by Nature—an experience that was everything he hoped for and more.
“It made me feel special,” he says.
Paige, 3, Honolulu cancer
He learned about the capybaras’ habitat, their social behaviors, and even their unique relationships with other animals. He got to feed, pet, and spend lots of time with his favorite animal. He also held river otters in the pool, pet a two-toed sloth, and fed a fox.
Paige, a cheerful 3-year-old from Honolulu, is bravely fighting cancer. Her journey has included months of chemotherapy and radiation, yet through it all, she has shown remarkable resilience, finding joy in her favorite things: Disney movies, Bluey, and—most of all—Winnie the Pooh. When Paige was asked what she wished for, her answer was clear: to meet Pooh Bear!
Watch Titus’ wish come true!
Her magical adventure was filled with unforgettable experiences—from dancing with Pooh Bear to sharing warm hugs with Mickey, Minnie, and Moana. She laughed with Pluto and Goofy, rode a unicorn on the merry-go-round, and visited Cinderella’s castle.
“The wish brought us closer as a family,” shares wish mom Jaymie-Lyn. “We made a lot of special memories that we will remember for the rest of our lives.”
A wish come true requires the support of our entire community—we rely on heartfelt contributions from individuals like you to grant the wish of every eligible child. Your generosity will help bring more wild and wonderful wishes to life for keiki across the state. Mahalo for joining us to transform lives, one wish at a time.
Randallyn is a confident and creative teen from Laupahoehoe with big dreams. Born with congenital heart disease, Randallyn underwent three open-heart surgeries before her first birthday. Despite a life filled with medical challenges, she’s always been vibrant, creative, and full of self-love. She discovered confidence through photography and dreamed of becoming a supermodel in New York City.
Make-A-Wish Hawaii brought that dream to life—complete with a pink custom gown, professional hair and makeup, and a glamorous NYC photoshoot. It was a wish come true!
“I felt like a princess,” she shared.
Randallyn’s wish experience let her forget past struggles and focus a future full of possibility. “It changed my life,” she says. Her strength, like her dreams, is limitless.
Moses, 11, Honolulu respiratory disorder
Watch
Randallyn’s wish come true!
Eleven-year-old Moses of Honolulu is known as “the cerebral one” in his family. A science and engineering enthusiast with big dreams of becoming a millionaire one day, Moses was eager to jump-start his future. He wished to have a MacBook and a 3-D printer to help bring his ideas to life and take his mind off his respiratory disorder.
On wish day, Moses met a local business owner who specializes in 3-D printing and was quickly up and running, creating a fun mythical creature. He recently visited Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s headquarters to donate one of his creations—a 3-D printed dragon—to inspire fellow keiki.
Now, thanks to his wish, Moses is already designing a bright, imaginative future—one print at a time.
Mahalo for making WISH! In the Wild possible!
Special thanks to our event partners and vendors:
Ashley Nagaoka
Big Island Candies
Blake Entertainment
Casey Lund
David Livingston
Eric Schiff
Hawaii Flower Lei
Hawaii News Now
Honolulu Dance Studio
Jamarek
Jenna Lee Pictures
Kuoha Culinary
Mid-Pacific Audio Visual
Ocean Vuong
OnStage Hawaii
Opulent Events
Rhema Services
Ric Noyle
RKT Media
Ryan Kalei Tsuji
Sheraton Waikiki
Simple Souls
Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
Tito's Handmade Vodka
Wish Kids Atticus, DJ, Ephraim, Jerni, Laila, Titus
We’re committed to creating lasting memories for Hawai‘i’s families and keiki.
Proud supporters of Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i
