Honoring Honoring A Legacy of Hope A Legacy of Hope KATIE PICKMAN
leadership and dedication. leadership and dedication. Mahalo for your contributions Mahalo for your contributions to Make-A-Wish Hawaii and for to Make-A-Wish Hawaii and for helping to make our keiki’s helping to make our keiki’s wishes come true! wishes come true!
Special thanks to all the Special thanks to all the
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Cayenne Pe‘a Board Chair
Tricia Fujikawa Lee Treasurer
Travis Kikuchi
Secretary
Todd Bedford
Deanna Butler
Erik DeRyke
Rich Erickson
Kara Kashiwabara
Bong Koh
Martin Marino
Tricia Matsukawa
Dr. Angela Pratt
Jade Richardson
Mike Rompel
Ed Schultz
Garret Sugai
Dr. Rupa Wong
Aaron Yamasaki
WELCOME TO WISH! Winter's Glow,
Tonight’s gala aims to capture the peace that winter brings, when the world pauses and celebrates, when children believe in magic, when families come together.
And that’s exactly what happens during the journey of a wish. When a child is diagnosed with a critical illness, it begins an unimaginably trying season for the entire family. But, like the stillness of winter, a wish slows things down. It gives children permission to dream and parents permission to breathe.
Whether it’s traveling somewhere new or enjoying a staycation, meeting a favorite hero or designing a custom space to learn and play, a wish relieves the pressure, creating the invaluable opportunity to envision life beyond illness.
And all of this is only possible because of you— your gifts of time, talent, treasure, and aloha transform the lives of hundreds of local wish kids and their families every year.
Right now, there are keiki throughout Hawaii waiting for their wishes to come true. And while they may currently be navigating heavy storms, your generosity helps ensure that they too will experience the joy and wonder that comes through the journey of a wish.
Mahalo for bringing the warm glow of a magical winter to our wish ‘ohana, not just tonight but all year long.
Trini Kaopuiki Clark President and CEO Make-A-Wish Hawaii
5:30 p.m.
COCKTAILS
Mingle with Wish Kids Cruz, Jerni, Mikael, Pandora, and Raiyha
6:30 p.m.
DINNER & DESSERT
Emcees Yunji de Nies and Ryan Kalei Tsuji
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.
9:00 p.m.
ONLINE AUCTION CLOSES
10:30 p.m.
Pau. Mahalo for joining us!
CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR
Goodfellow Bros.
An integral part of Maui’s construction industry for more than 50 years, Goodfellow Bros. is driven by a deep responsibility to the local community. From sponsoring events and granting wishes to sharing their love of construction with wish kids like ZionBreeze of Pahala and Cru of Kahului—who each experienced their favorite trucks and equipment up close during unforgettable wish reveal celebrations—Goodfellow Bros. consistently goes the extra mile to spark joy and inspire hope when it’s needed most.
“Bringing joy to young community members who are going through challenging times is directly in line with our mission, and I know it means a lot to everyone within our organization to see that impact.”
—CHAD GOODFELLOW, CEO
WISH FAMILY OF THE YEAR
Wish Kid Mika and ‘Ohana
After enduring kidney failure, a stroke, cardiac arrest and the amputation of her right foot, Mika’s wish to go to Walt Disney World® marked a turning point for her family. Watching Mika dance with her favorite characters—uninhibited by her glittery prosthetic leg— restored hope after a long, challenging medical journey. Today, Mika and her parents, Mark and Allison, serve as dedicated ambassadors, joining our wish granting team and inspiring others with resilience and heart.
“A wish renews your energy to keep going; the impact on the kids…there are really no words. We want to be involved as much as possible.”
—ALLISON AND MARK
LEADERSHIP AWARD
Katie Pickman
As General Manager of Hawaii News Now, Katie Pickman is a dynamic leader with a passion for storytelling and innovation. She served on the Make-A-Wish Hawaii board for 6 years, has strengthened our media partnership and played a key role in both creating and reimagining fundraising opportunities. Katie also consistently lends her heart to our mission, from training as a wish granter and visiting keiki in the hospital to participating in Jingle Rock Run with her family and friends.
“It is the coolest thing in the world to see a child light up thinking about their wish, feeling joy and surprise. That healing and those memories can really carry families through. Getting the word out about incredible work like this is part of our DNA at Hawaii News Now.”
—KATIE PICKMAN
MEDICAL PARTNER OF THE YEAR
Alyssa Carey
As the sole social worker at Kapi‘olani Medical Center’s Pediatric Complex Care Clinic, Alyssa Carey supports children with complex diagnoses every day. She is also a devoted Make-A-Wish Hawaii partner, carefully working to determine which children may qualify for a wish and collaborating closely with our team through the referral process. Her dedication has led to more eligible children being referred for wishes, ensuring keiki facing critical illness have access to the hope and strength a wish provides.
“These families have so many ups and downs, and wishes provide something to look forward to. Knowing they can have a great experience together and make memories that will last the rest of their lives is impactful for the whole family.”
MAGIC MAKER OF THE YEAR
Maui Divers Jewelry
From celebrating the beauty of Hawaii through their exclusive made-in-Hawaii designs to uplifting local nonprofits, Maui Divers Jewelry proudly honors its island roots. After helping wish kid Zierra design princess jewelry in 2019, the company became a steadfast Make-A-Wish Hawaii supporter—sponsoring events, volunteering and hosting campaigns. This year marks the third in a row they’ve kicked off World Wish Month by donating 100% of April 1 online sales, raising nearly $125,000 and counting to grant local wishes.
“As a business, we make people feel valued and smile, and Make-A-Wish Hawaii creates joy and change. It’s phenomenal.”
—COLE
SLATER, CEO AND CREATIVE
DIRECTOR
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
Brittany and Michael Flory
Although Brittany and Michael Flory’s late son, Ray Ray, had not yet decided on a wish, those early, excited conversations with his wish granters, paired with their earnest support after his passing, gave the entire Flory ‘ohana much-needed strength. Today, they wish it forward in his memory as volunteer wish granters on Hawaii Island and by participating in Jingle Rock Run every December, raising vital funds while finding community among fellow wish families.
“It’s an honor to be a small piece in such a big event for these families, and it’s also been really healing for us to see these kids’ wishes get granted.”
—BRITTANY AND MICHAEL FLORY
THE ONLINE WISH! AUCTION IS OPEN FOR BIDDING AT WISHGALAHAWAII.COM, featuring hundreds of items across 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.
KAILUA BEACH HOUSE
Enjoy a serene three-night stay, Thursday to Sunday, at a private Kailua beach estate. This sevenbedroom, five-bathroom retreat features open-air living, a saltwater pool, and a peaceful beachfront setting. Unwind in the island breeze, gather with loved ones, and soak in the serene, sunlit beauty of this unforgettable coastal getaway.
Donated by Chris George
The featured premier packages offer a chance at a variety of glistening opportunities—from glowing home upgrades to dazzling getaways!
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 to start bidding, visit wishgalahawaii.com.
Starting Bid: $6,000
Value: $23,500
WHERE WISHES COME TO LIGHT
NAME THE WISH LAB
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.
GLOW BEYOND THE HORIZON
FOUR FIRSTCLASS ROUNDTRIP ALASKA AIRLINES/ HAWAIIAN AIRLINES TICKETS
With four roundtrip first-class tickets from Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, your next adventure takes flight. Chase the dancing northern lights, wander through vibrant cities aglow including new European destinations, or escape to breathtaking coastlines where every horizon feels illuminated with possibility. With no blackout dates, you can follow the light wherever it leads—on your timeline, your way.
Expires May 16, 2027
NORTH SHORE BEACH HOUSE
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.
Donated by Don & Deanna Butler
SLEEK, CHIC, AND SHIMMERING
CALIFORNIA CLOSETS
Elevate your home into a space that glows with intention and ease with a California Closets system. Create bespoke organizational solutions— from custom closets to refined living spaces—designed to inspire comfort, clarity, and connection. Thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship bring beauty, function, and a quiet, radiant sense of order to every corner.
Donated by California Closets
Don’t Stop Believin’
DAZON’S WISH JOURNEY STRIKES A POWERFUL CHORD OF HOPE
At just five days old, Dazon underwent his first open-heart surgery—one of three he would need to survive.
Before he was born, Dazon’s parents learned that he would face a lifelong battle with congenital heart disease—a condition in which part of his heart did not fully develop. “We had the option to terminate him,” said his father, Gener. “But me? No. I’m a fighter. I want him to be born and alive.”
United in their decision to give Dazon a fighting chance, his mother, Reglita, traveled to the mainland weeks before her due date so Dazon could receive the specialized care he needed.
I wish to go to
New York City
Dazon, 13, Honolulu
congenital heart disease
Those early days were filled with uncertainty. Dazon spent his first six months in the hospital, while his father traveled back and forth between Hawaii and California, balancing the
needs of their family in Honolulu while staying close to his son and wife. Two more surgeries followed—one later that same year, and another when Dazon was just two years old. Through it all, fear and hope existed side by side.
Today, at 13, Dazon carries those experiences with quiet strength. “I try to keep things positive,” he says. “Try to have fun. Try to enjoy.”
Music has become his refuge. Whether he’s strumming his ukulele, playing guitar, or performing on the French horn in his school band, music helps him feel grounded. “When I pick up my ukulele, it makes me feel more comfortable,” Dazon shares. “It distracts me from other things. I like to feel the music.” Inspired by artists like The Beatles and Michael Jackson, he pours emotion into every note.
For Dazon’s family, his music is powerful. “It’s like we forget all the things we’ve been through,” Gener says.
history, and iconic landmarks, he dreams of seeing Times Square glowing with lights and standing at One World Trade Center, reflecting on its powerful history.
Though his wish has not yet been granted, the journey itself is already making a difference.
“It shifts our emotions,” Gener says. “From overwhelming fear to joy. From anxiety to hope. It makes us strong.”
For Dazon, this journey is about more than a destination—it’s about possibility. It’s about looking ahead with excitement instead of uncertainty. It’s about holding onto dreams, even after everything he’s faced.
His favorite song, “Don't Stop Believin',” captures that feeling perfectly. When he performs it, he hopes others feel what he feels—hope, perseverance, and the courage to keep going. And for kids facing their own hard chapters, he offers the message
I wish to meet ItsFunneh
Raiyha, 10, Honolulu cancer
Fund
A
Wish
Raiyha, a 10-year-old from Honolulu, has faced an especially challenging medical journey since being diagnosed with cancer. Through surgery and months of chemotherapy, she has shown remarkable bravery.
Raiyha has long been a fan of YouTuber ItsFunneh, a member of the online group KREW. When it was time to decide on her wish, there was no question that she wanted to meet her hero!
Raiyha traveled to Los Angeles to attend VidCon, the world’s largest convention for digital content creators and their fans, where she met not only ItsFunneh, but also the other members of KREW! They exchanged personal gifts, signed her VidCon credentials, took photos together, and made her feel like part of their group.
I wish to go on a Disney cruise to the Bahamas
Cruz, 9, Kailua cancer
Nine-year-old Cruz of Kailua is an adventurous boy who loves learning about new cultures and languages. But a devastating cancer diagnosis brought his family’s world to a halt. “Chemo is exhausting. Surgery is painful. The entire process is scary,” said his mom, Charlyn.
During long hospital stays, Cruz and his family found hope while dreaming about where his wish might take them. He wished to go on a Disney cruise, and the experience gave his family something joyful to look forward to during an incredibly difficult time.
Setting sail on the Disney Magic, Cruz explored Cozumel, encountered dolphins and manatees, and shared unforgettable experiences with his family.
“The cruise felt like a dream come true that we all desperately needed,” Charlyn said.
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 wishes to life for keiki across the state! Mahalo for joining us to transform lives, one wish at a time.
I wish to go to Walt Disney World®
Pandora, 5, Pearl City cancer
Pandora is a sweet, outgoing, and happy-go-lucky girl who loves drawing, sculpting with slime and clay, and characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, SpongeBob, and Scooby-Doo. But unlike most kids her age, Pandora has been bravely facing cancer, undergoing chemotherapy and radiation while surrounded by the love of her family, including her older brother, Achilles.
During some of her most difficult days, looking forward to her wish to go to Walt Disney World® gave Pandora strength and joy. At Disney World, she enjoyed rides, laughter, and magical moments with her family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The trip gave them a chance to focus on joy and togetherness after such a difficult journey.
“We had an absolutely amazing time,” said her mom, Zoe.
I wish to go to Monster Jam®
Mikael, 4, Ewa Beach leukemia
Mikael is full of energy and imagination. He spends his days riding his bike and staging epic battles with his favorite Monster Jam® truck, Grave Digger®. But behind his playful spirit is a tough journey as Mikael is bravely fighting leukemia.
His love for Monster Jam trucks gives him a powerful escape, so it was no surprise when he wished to see Grave Digger in action at Monster Jam in Texas. Not only did he watch the thrilling show, but he also met Grave Digger’s driver, explored the massive truck, and even climbed inside to pretend he was driving.
“It was the best thing for him,” said his mom, Misha. His wish became a joyful, hope-filled memory that now fuels his courage.
Mahalo to our event partners for making WISH! Winter's Glow possible!
24/VII Danceforce
Big Island Candies
Blake Entertainment Carolyn Minx
David Livingston
DJ Compose
Eggshell Lighting
Encore
Eric Schiff
Hawaii Flower Lei
Kaiser Permanente
Kanoe Gibson Nitta
Kuoha Culinary
Mid-Pacific Audio Visual
Opulent Events Hawaii
Rhema Services
RKT Media
Ryan Kalei Tsuji
Sheraton Waikiki
Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
Tito's Handmade Vodka
Ua Hawai'i
Wish Kids Cruz, Dazon, Jerni, Mikael, Pandora, and Raiyha
Yunji de Nies
Our Celebrated Honorees
Philanthropist of the Year
Melissa Jackson, 2020
Jade Richardson, 2021
Mike Gangloff, 2022
Rick Fried, 2023
Leadership Award
Bob Bruhl, 2020
Jeff Higashi, 2024
Glenn Furuya and Debbie Bacon, 2025
Katie Pickman, 2026
Volunteer(s) of the Year
Talia Osurman, 2020
James and Peter Mateo, 2021
Nikki Wong and Jen McNeff, 2022
Toni Bello, 2023
Jenny Nakama and Keola Brown, 2024
Christie Robello, 2025
Brittany and Michael Flory, 2026
Corporate Partner of the Year
Alaska Airlines, 2020
Nan, Inc., 2021
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, 2022
D.R. Horton & Schuler
Family Foundation, 2023
Foundations Hawaii, 2024
Swinerton, 2025
Goodfellow Bros., 2026
Wish Family of the Year
Wish Mom Melissa & ‘Ohana, 2020
Wish Kid Zeila & ‘Ohana, 2021
Wish Alum McKella & ‘Ohana, 2022
Wish Kid Elijah & ‘Ohana, 2023
Wish Kid Max & ‘Ohana, 2024
Wish Kid Pomai & ‘Ohana, 2025
Wish Kid Mika & ‘Ohana, 2026
Medical Partner of the Year
Dr. Charles Neal, 2020
Dr. Robert Wilkinson, 2022
Dr. Jessica Kosut, 2023
Mary Mullis, 2024
Dr. Kelley Hutchins, 2025
Alyssa Carey, 2026
Magic Makers of the Year
Dave & Buster’s, 2021
Hawaii Stage & Lighting, 2022
Domino’s Hawaii, 2023
Ryan Kalei Tsuji, 2024
Aulani, A Disney® Resort & Spa, 2025
Maui Divers Jewelry, 2026
Across Hawaii, keiki are waiting for the hope and strength a wish brings. You can help light the way—by referring a child or joining us as a Wish Granter or Wish Ambassador.
Connecting the world, together
Proud to suppor t Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i.
