Plus: Introducing our WISH! Winter’s Glow gala honorees
Walt
Remi, 3, Kaneohe rare disease
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
ON THE COVER
Wish Kid Remi’s princess wish comes true at Walt Disney World®!
Aloha,
Wishes have a remarkable way of bringing people together—often in the moments when connection is needed most.
When 3-year-old Remi was diagnosed with an incredibly rare form of cancer, her mom, Rachel, felt isolated and uncertain about what the future might hold. A call from MakeA-Wish Hawaii changed everything. One of Remi’s wish granters was not only a wish mom—her own son had overcome the very same rare disease at Remi’s age. With a diagnosis so rare that Rachel had never met another family facing it, this connection felt meant to be. What began as wish planning soon became something more: reassurance, understanding, and hope during one of the darkest seasons of their lives.
That is the power of a wish. It is not only a celebration—it is a bridge between people, a reminder that no one walks this journey alone. Read more about Remi’s beautiful wish in our cover story.
This April, we invite you to continue that spirit of connection during World Wish Month—a month dedicated to celebrating the life-changing impact of a wish and the WishMakers who bring them to life. Local partners are rallying behind our mission statewide, and on April 23, our World Wish Month Telethon on KHON2 will share inspiring stories and offer meaningful ways to get involved.
Looking ahead, we are excited to celebrate the individuals and organizations who make wishes possible at WISH! Winter’s Glow on May 16 at the Sheraton Waikiki. Together, we will celebrate the compassion and commitment that help ignite hope for local keiki. Learn more on page 6 and at wishgalahawaii.com.
I am proud to share that Make-A-Wish Hawaii has once again been named one of the Best Places to Work in Hawaii by Hawaii Business Magazine! This honor reflects a culture rooted in purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the families we serve.
Because of supporters like you, more children across the state are experiencing the joy and connection a wish brings. Mahalo for your continued heartfelt support.
Much aloha,
Trini Kaopuiki Clark President and CEO
I wish to go to Walt Disney World® to meet princesses
Remi, 3, Kaneohe rare disease
Remi’s Princess Wish Delivers Hope and Community Amid Rare
Disease
For one full year, 3-year-old wish kid Remi and her mom Rachel spent their playdates at the hospital. Five days in a row, for weeks at a time, they’d drive from Kaneohe to Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children for treatment after Remi’s diagnosis with an incredibly rare form of cancer.
Remi would receive her dose of chemotherapy, and then they’d go to the playroom at the hospital, get a treat from the cafeteria, and wander the halls. Rachel hoped these small moments of joy might help protect her toddler from the stark reality she was bearing for them both.
In truth, sitting in the waiting room surrounded by people who’d never heard of Remi’s condition, Rachel had never felt more alone. Her daughter’s diagnosis was so uncommon that Rachel didn’t know of anyone else on Oahu who shared it, and she didn’t have any example for what their future might hold. At the time, the support of her family—and Remi’s tired cuddles at home after chemo—were carrying her through each day.
When Rachel first got a call from Make-A-Wish Hawaii volunteer Christie Robello, that all changed. Not only was Christie a wish mom herself, but her son had overcome the very same rare disease when he was Remi’s age.
According to Christie, this unique connection “must have been meant to be,” as she didn’t know what Remi’s illness was until after she volunteered to grant her wish. “There are so few of us fighting this disease,” she says. “I just wanted to hug Rachel and let her know it would be okay.”
“It was like I needed her to come into my life,” Rachel reflects. “It gave me such a boost of morale during a dark part of our lives.”
Soon, Rachel and Remi’s trips to the hospital had the added element of hope. Wish granters Christie, Elaine, and Michelle would visit them at the cafeteria with gifts in hand, and,
together, they’d sit and dream about Remi’s upcoming wish to meet princesses at Walt Disney World ® .
Mahalo, Prince Waikiki , for your heartfelt support to grant Remi’s wish!
Remi finished chemotherapy on Rachel’s birthday, bookending a bittersweet year filled with uncertainty and isolation—but also with joy and meaningful new relationships.
Just a few months later, the entire ‘ohana celebrated a new chapter in Remi’s journey with a life-changing wish come true, made possible thanks to the generous support of Prince Waikiki. After a year of hospital playdates, watching Remi meet all her favorite princesses and dance along to the parades with her big sister Ayva at the happiest place on Earth was a sign of just how far they had come.
Says Rachel, “Remi is young, so I don’t really know how much of the hospital visits she’ll actually remember, but she will always remember her wish and the memories of running through the amusement parks with her family.”
Inspired by their experience, Rachel and her family have already wished it forward in meaningful ways. From sharing their story and raising vital funds to walking side-by-side with fellow wish ‘ohana at Jingle Rock Run, they hope to let other local families know that there is life beyond illness—and that they are not alone.
LIFE-CHANGING WISHES
Enjoy a glimpse of recent wishes granted thanks to your generous support!
Finn’s Wish Skates Into a Bright Future
Bor n with a rare liver disease, 5-year-old Finn endured his first surgery at just 10 weeks old and later received a life-saving liver transplant from his mom shortly before his second birthday.
After a difficult year of recovery and countless medical challenges, Finn finally began to thrive—smiling, laughing, and taking up skateboarding as he lived life to the fullest. Skating brought him endless joy, and he wished to meet his hero, professional skateboarder Andy Anderson.
Thanks to the generous support of Maui Divers Jewelry, Finn’s wish came true! He traveled to California for the Red Bull Origin event, where he and Andy instantly clicked, spending the day skating side by side.
“Finn’s wish boosted his confidence, lifted his spirits, and reminded him that he is not defined by his illness but celebrated for his strength and resilience,” shared his mom, Laura.
For Finn and his family, this wish was more than a fun trip—it was a celebration of how far he has come. It gave them space to step away from the hardships of his medical journey and simply celebrate Finn as the joyful, adventurous little boy he is.
I wish to go to Walt Disney World® Caelynn, 4, Waipahu nervous system disorder
with Andy Anderson Finn, 5, Honolulu liver transplant
Watch Finn’s wish come true!
Mahalo, Maui Divers Jewelry, for your heartfelt generosity to grant Finn’s wish!
Caelynn’s First Trip for Pure Joy
At just 4 years old, Caelynn of Waipahu has already faced more medical challenges than most will in a lifetime. Non-verbal and with limited mobility, she experiences multiple epileptic seizures each day—sometimes as many as five—as her family continues searching for answers and specialized care.
Yet Caelynn’s joy shines brightly. She expresses happiness through radiant smiles, clapping hands, kicking feet and soft giggles. She loves books, musicfilled movies, stroller walks and snuggling close to her family. Watching her three energetic brothers play brings her endless delight.
Thanks to the generous support of Goodfellow Bros., Caelynn’s wish to go to Walt Disney World® came true—her very first trip taken purely for joy, not medical treatment. Surrounded by color, music, and magic, she experienced a world seemingly designed just for her.
Her mom, Shelby, shared, “The trip provided us with so many wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.”
Caelynn and her ‘ohana were able to focus on laughter, connection and hope— creating memories that will carry them forward through the challenges ahead.
Mahalo, Goodfellow Bros., for your generous support to grant Caelynn’s wish!
I wish to meet and skate
I wish to have a Peppa Pig 13th birthday party
Shekinah, 13, Hilo rare disease
Watch Shekinah’s birthday wish come true!
Shekinah’s Peppa Pig Party is a Wish Come True
When Shekinah was a toddler, she was diagnosed with Rett syndrome—a rare neuromuscular disorder that affects her motor skills, speech and hand use. Through every challenge, one familiar sound has brought comfort: Peppa Pig’s voice. It soothes her at school, during doctor’s visits and everywhere she goes.
Thanks to the Wishes Forever Endowment Fund, Shekinah’s wish to have a Peppa Pig–themed 13th birthday party came true! Wearing a birthday ribbon and glittery pink sash, she arrived to cheers from family, church and school friends, teachers, and members of her health care team as the Peppa Pig birthday song filled the venue. Her smile grew even brighter when Peppa Pig herself made a special appearance to celebrate alongside her.
The joyful day included balloons, a photo booth, games, a candy bar, Peppa episodes, and her favorite foods. That evening, Shekinah was so excited she stayed awake until every last birthday present had been opened.
“I am so happy… beyond thankful,” shared her mother, Judame. “You guys are the answer to my prayers. You made my daughter feel seen and loved by the community. When she is happy, my heart is full.”
Heartfelt thanks to the supporters of the Wishes Forever Endowment Fund for making wishes like Shekinah’s possible.
Emmett’s Wish to see Superheroes and Animals Takes Flight
Nine-year-old Emmett from Hilo is known for his bright smile, big heart, and love of superheroes and dinosaurs. Behind that joyful spirit is a journey marked by courage.
Born with congenital heart disease, Emmett was medevacked to Oahu at just one day old and spent the first months of his life in hospitals, undergoing three open-heart surgeries, numerous heart procedures, and was on life support for two weeks. He bravely faced a fourth open-heart surgery in 2023 and will need a heart transplant someday.
When it came time to choose his wish, Emmett knew exactly what he wanted: to go to Orlando to see animals and superheroes up close. Thanks to the generosity of United Airlines, his wish took flight!
In Orlando, Emmett met beloved characters, explored exciting parks, and even got to pet a dinosaur. Each night, he told his mom, “Today was the best day of my life.” His face still lights up when he talks about his wish trip.
“My wish came true and I’m going to remember it forever and ever,” Emmett shared. “I feel super-duper special.”
I wish to go to go to Orlando to see animals and superheroes
Emmett, 9, Hilo congenital heart disease
Mahalo, United Airlines , for helping wishes like Emmett’s take flight!
Watch Emmett’s wish story!
PRESENTED
ARRILLAGA FOUNDATION
Saturday, May 16 SHERATON WAIKIKI
5:30-10:30 p.m.
Attire: All-White Winter Chic
Embrace the glow of the evening in elegant all-white, winter-inspired attire. Sparkles or icy accent welcome.
Get ready to shine at WISH! Winter’s Glow, an enchanting evening that will illuminate the power of a wish. Set against a sparkling winter-inspired backdrop, this unforgettable gala brings together our community in celebration of hope, resilience and the life-changing impact of a wish.
Your partnership helps light the way for local keiki facing critical illnesses, empowering them to look beyond medical challenges and toward brighter days ahead. Together, we can ensure more children experience the strength and joy that a wish brings.
We hope you’ll join us for this radiant evening as we work together to transform lives, one wish at a time. WISH! Winter’s Glow 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! Winter’s Glow, visit wishgalahawaii.com. wish kid CRUZ
Help the Online Auction Shine!
In-kind donations for our online auction will help raise money to grant wishes. Highly sought-after items include:
Hotel stays and vacation packages
Tourism excursions and unique activities
Fine art, sports memorabilia, and collectibles
Gift cards, dining experiences, and services
To contribute, please email gala@hawaii.wish.org for the auction donation form and submit your item by April 10. Your tax-deductible gift helps create a season of hope and possibility—mahalo for helping wishes glow.
MEET OUR 2026 Honorees
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.
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.
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.
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 $75,000 and counting to grant local wishes.
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 MakeA-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.
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.
MAGIC MAKER OF THE YEAR Maui
SUBARU HAWAI‘I SHARE THE LOVE
During Subaru Hawaii’s 14th annual Share the Love event, every new Subaru vehicle purchased in Hawaii between November 1 and December 31, 2025, drove a $350 donation to local nonprofit partners. Thanks to the generosity of Subaru Hawai‘i and its customers, $15,000 was donated to Make-A-Wish Hawaii!
Mahalo to Subaru Hawai‘i for your continued dedication to driving wishes forward and creating brighter tomorrows for keiki across the state.
Mahalo for your generous support of the 13th annual Jingle Rock Run, presented by Road Builders Corporation at Ko Olina Resort! This joyful holiday celebration brought together more than 2,000 participants—wish children and their families, generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and compassionate supporters from throughout the community—to celebrate the season and the life-changing power of wishes.
Among them was Kamakoa, a 12-year-old from Honolulu with a heart condition and a love for sports. Kamakoa shared highlights about how his wish to go to the World Series gave him and his family renewed strength, connection, and memories to last a lifetime.
Your heartfelt support helped Jingle Rock Run raise more than $370,000—a new record that ensures more keiki across the state will have their wishes granted.
Mahalo for making this season brighter for Hawaii wish families!
Watch the Jingle Rock Run recap video!
WORLD WISH MONTH
April is World Wish Month—a monthlong celebration of the power of wishes and the WishMakers who bring them to life. Throughout the month, local businesses are rallying their customers and activating in stores and online, including:
• Maui Divers Jewelry, donating 100% of online sales on April 1
• Jamba Hawaii, matching customer donations up to $5,000
• Chick-fil-A Oahu locations, donating 10% of chicken strip sales
Tune in to the World Wish Month telethon on Thursday, April 23 on KHON2 to hear inspiring stories from wish families, volunteers, and supporters. King Windward Nissan will match all donations made during the morning portion of the telethon up to $10,000. Through the Spirit of Giving initiative, the Love’s brand and Hawai‘i Foodservice Alliance will match all evening donations up to $10,000!
Visit hawaii.wish.org/world-wish-month to learn more and get involved.
Todd Bedford
Founder
Lifeline Fire and Security
Todd’s journey with Make-A-Wish Hawaii began several years ago when a dear friend and board member, Mike Rompel, invited his family to attend the WISH! gala. The experience deeply resonated with Todd and his entire ‘ohana. He joined the board soon after.
What started as attending one event quickly grew into deeper engagement. The very next year, Todd and his family went from guests to sponsors—supporting all four major events. His children, Tristan and Caitlyn, also stepped into leadership roles by joining the Youth Leadership Council, making Make-A-Wish a true family commitment.
One of Todd’s most memorable moments was helping grant Kai’s wish to have a customized golf cart. Beyond giving his time, treasure and talent, Todd was able to meet Kai and his family and witness firsthand the powerful impact of a wish come true.
Todd is most proud of setting an example for his children and seeing their own heart for service grow. He hopes Make-A-Wish Hawaii continues to thrive in a community that values aloha when it’s needed most.
Allie Talavera
Vice President Goldman Sachs
Allie first became involved with Make-AWish Hawaii in 2023 as a member of the Development Committee. What began as committee service quickly grew into hands-on volunteerism—helping with Jingle Rock Run T-shirt distribution, supporting the World Wish Month telethon and preparing for the WISH! gala.
She deepened her commitment by joining the Young Leaders Board and becoming a Wish Ambassador. Through one-on-one opportunities to meet wish kids and their families, she saw firsthand the profound impact of a wish. Hearing each child’s unique journey strengthened her dedication and inspired her to become even more engaged.
One of her most memorable experiences was supporting a wish child visiting from Pennsylvania who dreamed of traveling to Hawaii to learn how to bake an authentic Hawaiian dessert. Seeing the joy of a visiting family experiencing the aloha spirit—and witnessing how local support enriches their visit—left a lasting impression.
Now serving on the YLB Executive Committee, Allie is proud to know her efforts create meaningful, lasting impact.
Wishes Shine Bright at the Maui County Fair Parade
Make-A-Wish Hawaii was honored to take part in the Maui County Fair Parade, celebrating alongside our Maui community and sharing the hope, strength, and joy that a wish brings to local keiki and their families.
Participating in the parade were Make-A-Wish Hawaii staff, volunteers, and the families of many inspiring Maui wish kids: Cru, Hala‘i, Jaedon, Lyla, Paige, and Tavin.
A heartfelt mahalo to Goodfellow Bros. for partnering with us to transport our wish families safely along the parade route, ensuring everyone could participate fully in the celebration.
Mahalo to our Maui community for cheering on our wish kids and helping us continue to bring wishes to life across the Valley Isle.
From Rescue to Renewal
Abbie’s Wish is a Hands-on Adventure in Turtle Rescue
Strength is something that 16-year-old Abbie from Wisconsin knows a lot about. She’s a high school powerlifter, a talented painter, and someone who has always felt deeply connected to animals—especially sea turtles, whose enduring spirit inspires her.
While battling lymphoma, Abbie would close her eyes and envision being in Hawaii, with sunshine on her face, sand between her toes, and shave ice in her hand. It wasn’t just the beaches or the ocean breeze that drew her to Hawaii, but the chance to be close to the marine life she admires. She wished to visit a turtle care facility and learn how these beautiful animals are rescued and protected.
With special help from the Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response (HMAR) team, Abbie’s wish came to life. In an incredible moment of “wish timing” that no one could have planned, HMAR rescued an injured sea turtle along Waikiki Beach the night before Abbie’s visit. By morning, her entire wish experience had been completely reimagined and elevated into a rare and unforgettable hands-on opportunity.
At the Turtle Care Center, Abbie was embraced as a member of the team. She explored the facility with curiosity, listening closely, asking questions, and absorbing every moment. Guided by HMAR’s experts, Abbie performed the turtle’s diagnostic exam—carefully taking measurements, examining injuries, assisting with bloodwork, and helping interpret the results. It was an experience that went far beyond her wildest dreams, as she was immersed in the work she hopes to develop into a career.
It was a day of adventure and discovery, including lunch with the HMAR team and her first taste of Spam musubi (which she loved!). Her life-changing experience concluded with a ride-along to the North Shore, where she helped observe wildlife in its natural habitat. There, she saw the impact of rehabilitation firsthand—a sea turtle and a Hawaiian monk seal resting peacefully on the same beach. It was a living reminder of why conservation matters and a moment that reaffirmed her aspiration to help animals.
As a special surprise, Abbie was invited to name the rescued turtle she helped care for. She chose “Sconnie” because it ties her Wisconsin roots to the place where her wish came true, creating a bond she will carry with her forever.
For Abbie and her family, this wish was more than a trip—it was a reminder of hope and a moment of healing they will treasure forever. “It was a wonderful way to wrap up a tough year,” they shared. “Our time in Hawaii was nothing short of magical. Abbie’s wish gave us an almost reward for surviving the blow of 2025.”
Make-A-Wish Hawaii assisted Make-A-Wish Wisconsin in granting Abbie’s wish. All wishes to visit Hawaii are funded by the child’s home chapter. All funds raised in Hawaii support local wish keiki.
I wish to go to Hawaii to visit a turtle care facility
Abbie, 16, Wisconsin lymphoma
Rosendin Electric Shines a Light of Hope for Hawaii Wish Families
As the country’s largest employeeowned electrical contractor, Rosendin Electric helps power major industries, from healthcare and education to transportation and entertainment. And with more than 100 charitable partners nationwide, Rosendin is also deeply committed to empowering people. That impact now extends to Hawaii keiki fighting critical illnesses thanks to a recent generous $15,000 grant from the Rosendin Foundation, Rosendin’s philanthropic arm.
“The Rosendin Foundation has a mission to positively impact, empower, and inspire communities,” said Senior Project Manager Alissa Bautista of Rosendin’s Hawaii Division. “We do this through grants that optimize health and well-being in the communities where we live and work. This is how we tie our missions together to positively impact our communities, and we hope that this grant provides more impact for children in Hawaii during their time of need.”
Alissa, who also serves on Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s Young Leaders Board (YLB), was first introduced to the Make-A-Wish Hawaii mission when Rosendin helped grant 14-yearold Waipahu wish kid Krayson’s wish to have a therapy clubhouse. Battling a seizure disorder, Krayson requires daily meetings with his therapists, who assist with his communication skills and overall development. His ‘ohana knew a tailored, safe space where Krayson and his therapists could focus on his growth would truly change his life and Rosendin joined Swinerton Hawaii and generous partners across the state to turn his wish into reality.
After managing Rosendin’s role in the project and ultimately attending Krayson’s wish
reveal, Alissa was inspired to join our leadership community by becoming a member of the YLB.
“It was amazing to see how much of an impact can be made when a child’s wish comes true and the happiness it brings them,” she said. “Joy filled my heart, and everything Rosendin and I invested was given back 10 times over.”
Alissa and the team at Rosendin are dedicated to furthering our shared mission of changing lives across the state, such as through the Foundation’s recent grant, which will empower more families like Krayson’s to envision life beyond illness.
“The amount of support and belief in the Make-A-Wish mission is overwhelming and so encouraging,” said Alissa. “I hope to bring my knowledge, skills, and connections together to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses in conjunction with the Rosendin Foundation’s mission to positively impact our local communities.”
Mahalo nui loa to Rosendin Electric and the Rosendin Foundation for helping to transform lives, one wish at a time.
To learn more about how you or your company can support local wishes, please contact Madalyn Kenney Bumanglag, Chief Development Officer, at mkenney@hawaii.wish.org.
