I wish to have a petting zoo themed birthday party
ZaRiyah, 4 blood disorder
Another year, another group of Wish Kiddos having their wishes granted, thanks to you. This year has been another record-breaking year for us here at Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, community-minded businesses, and individuals, we granted 187 wishes this year. The most we’ve ever granted in one year at this chapter.
While we’d love to be put out of business because kids are healthy and don’t need the prescription of hope only Make-A-Wish can provide, we currently have over 200 kiddos with critical illnesses working with our team to ensure their wish gets granted when they need hope most.
Because of you, we’ve been able to ensure no child in Southern Nevada waits one day longer than necessary to experience the full benefits of getting their wish granted.
Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
That’s what we’re committed to doing and won’t stop until we find every eligible child and get them a heartfelt wish.
As we look back, each wish we granted brought happiness to Wish Kids and their families but also to the community partners and individuals who were involved. You’ll see a few of those wishes in greater detail in this book. I know they’ll be as life-changing for you as they are for our team, our Board of Directors, and YOU, our incredible support network.
As President and CEO, I’m humbled by the continued support you provide but also grateful I’ve had an opportunity to meet with so many of you this past year and hear YOUR stories. As we look ahead at the coming year, I’m grateful you’re with us and ask you to let others know why and how you support us, to hopefully get us closer to my dream, one degree of separation in our state. You see, I have this idea that if everyone in the state had experienced a wish by attending a wish reveal and knew a wish family, or came to one of our events, the community would help us find and fund every eligible child’s wish. We would be one degree of separation from everyone in the state. #LifeGoals
Again, please enjoy this book, and see what we did together this past year. We granted 187 wishes for critical illnesses here in Southern Nevada this year. Because of you…
Wishfully Yours,
Scott Rosenzweig President & CEO
We are excited to announce that Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada and the Northern Nevada Region of Make-A-Wish officially reunified as of September 1, 2024, creating a chapter that will serve children and families across all of the silver state.
October, 25th 2024: Make-A-Wish Nevada staff, friends & family gathered to unveil the new Make-A-Wish Nevada sign.
Make-A-Wish® Nevada hosted its annual Evening of Gratitude in the fall of 2024, celebrating the many donors whose generous support made it possible to grant a record-breaking 187 wishes for Nevada children facing critical illnesses. During the event, Make-A-Wish unveiled the new UFC Ultimate Planning Room at The Wishing Place, a dedicated space where the magic of wish planning happens.
UFC was honored as the Corporate Partner of the Year for their continued commitment to supporting these life-changing wishes and for their generous contribution towards the UFC Ultimate Planning Room. UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin and 17-year-old wish kid Jayson Clark-Gholson, an avid UFC fan born with muscular dystrophy and heart defects, helped with the unveiling.
Additionally, Blair Bigelow May was recognized as the 2024 Philanthropist of the Year for her
leadership in launching Starry Night, a casinothemed fundraiser that raised over $500,000 in its inaugural event last year.
The Evening of Gratitude was a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and generosity, and the difference it makes in the lives of children. Together, these contributions create moments of joy and hope, proving that wishes can come true even in the most challenging circumstances.
Values & Impact
We grant life-changing wishes that help children heal through happiness. We believe wishes improve the odds for wish kids fighting critical illnesses. It’s why we do what we do. Sure, wishes are amazing and fun. More than that, they inspire and have the power to change lives. Wishes help kids look past their limitations, families overcome anxiety, and entire communities experience joy. Most importantly, wishes can improve a child’s quality of life, giving them a better chance of recovering.
We engage our entire community in the wish process, spreading happiness throughout Southern Nevada. A wish engages entire communities in life-changing moments. It inspires supporters, volunteers, medical professionals, and others to join us in helping children with critical illnesses. We strive to create stories that show them how they connect to these moments – and how these moments enrich their lives.
THE IMPACT OF A WISH
89% of health care professionals surveyed say they believe that the wish experience can influence wish kids’ physical health.
81% of parents observe an increased willingness by their wish kids to comply with treatment protocols.
96% of parents said that the wish strengthen their families.
74% of wish parents observed that the wish marked a turning point in their children’s response to treatment.
99% of parents reported that the wish experience gave their children increased feelings of happiness.
97% of wish families observe increases in their wish kids’ emotional health.
I wish to go to
Disney Aulani
Aspen, 12 cystic fibrosis
MEET ASPEN
Aspen has faced many challenges in his life, from being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just three-months-old to waiting for the fulfillment of his wish. Managing cystic fibrosis since infancy means Aspen follows a daily regimen of seven to eight medications and uses a nebulizer three to four times a day. Despite this demanding routine, Aspen’s upbeat personality and love of fun make him stand out. Known for his kindness, he remains cheerful and spirited.
Passionate about coding and fascinated by scientific phenomena like volcanoes, Aspen, like any 12-year-old, also enjoys classic summer activities such as swimming, water slides, and snorkeling.
When it came time to choose his wish, Disney Aulani immediately captured Aspen’s imagination. After seeing it featured in a YouTube video, he was captivated by its mix of nature, beachfront beauty, and Disney magic. For months, he eagerly awaited the chance to experience the enchantment of Disney Aulani.
Finally, the day came for Aspen and his family to fly to Hawaii. From the moment they arrived
at Disney Aulani, Aspen’s joy was palpable. He spent his days exploring pristine beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying thrilling water slides. His love for nature deepened as he snorkeled among colorful fish and learned about Hawaiian culture through engaging activities and shows.
Meeting his favorite Disney characters in such a magical setting was a dream come true for Aspen. He laughed, made lasting memories with his family, and cherished every moment of his adventure in paradise. Aspen’s wish to visit Disney Aulani was more than just a vacation; it was a celebration of resilience, joy, and dreams fulfilled.
Scan to Watch Aspen’s Wish Reveal
I wish to have a stair lift
Jai’aine, 4 respiratory disorder
MEET JAI’AINE
Jai’anie had one special wish: to have a stair lift installed in her home. As the cherished princess of the household, her family had always carried her up and down the stairs, but as she grew, this became increasingly challenging. The stair lift promised not only convenience but also a new level of independence and joy for Jai’anie and her family.
In the summer of 2024, Jai’anie’s wish came true! Her home was transformed into a festive space with colorful balloons and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new stair lift. Surrounded by family, friends, and caregivers, the event was filled with smiles and tears of joy.
The stair lift has quickly become a source of endless fun for Jai’anie. According to her mom, “She loves riding it and wants to be on it all day.” The stair lift has already made a significant impact, providing immense relief and joy to the entire family.
Thanks to the generosity of Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada and its supporters, Jai’anie and her family now have one less challenge to face. This stair lift is a testament to the magic of wishes and the profound difference they make in the lives of children like Jai’anie.
Jai’anie is a delightful and spirited four-year-old known for her outgoing personality and love of meeting new people. Her favorite activity is watching animated kids’ shows, especially Gracie’s Corner. Surrounded by her loving family, including a younger sister, Jai’anie faces the challenges of a respiratory disorder from birth, requiring extensive treatments such as a ventilator, pulse ox machine, trach, feeding tube, and supplemental oxygen. Despite these difficulties, her family has grown closer, supporting each other through every challenge. Scan to Watch Jai’anie’s Wish Reveal
I wish to have a courtyard makeover
4 heart condition
Danyel,
MEET DANYEL
Danyel is a special four-year-old who has a heart of gold. His journey took a challenging turn at just one week old when his pediatrician noticed abnormalities in his brain growth. At three-months-old, several tests confirmed a heart condition. This diagnosis was a heavy burden for his family.
Despite the obstacles, including daily nebulizer treatments and g-tube surgery, Danyel’s resilience shone through. His spirit and smile continued to inspire his family, teaching them to cherish each moment with love and gratitude.
In 2024, Danyel’s journey has seen its fair share of obstacles he’s had to overcome.Despite these struggles, Dany’s presence has brought immense joy to his family.
Danyel’s wish for a courtyard makeover reflects his desire to create joyful memories with his loved ones. The family’s backyard courtyard, once filled with overgrown plants and
unusable structures, represents an opportunity for connection and fun. From clearing the old space to installing new concrete flooring, paint, and an outdoor kitchen, the makeover has become a symbol of hope and support.
Danyel’s mother reflects on their journey with profound gratitude, acknowledging the support from Make-A-Wish, Martin-Harris Construction, and their community. The courtyard makeover has brought their family closer together, filling their lives with joy and demonstrating that, with love, anything is possible.
Scan to Watch Danyel’s Wish Reveal
I wish to have a petting zoo themed birthday party
ZaRiyah, 4 blood disorder
MEET ZARIYAH
ZaRiyah, a spirited and upbeat four-year-old, has faced frequent hospital stays since birth due to a blood disorder. Despite the challenges she has faced, her bright personality and infectious positivity never waver. ZaRiyah loves baby sharks, baby dolls, monkeys, and animal crackers. Until recently, she had never had the chance to enjoy a birthday party, as her medical condition often took precedence.
Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada stepped in to make her fourth birthday truly extraordinary by organizing a zoo-themed celebration just for her. The event was a magical experience that ZaRiyah will cherish forever. Her face lit up with pure delight as she interacted with the animals at the petting zoo. She was thrilled to ride Blossom the unicorn, had her face painted in vibrant colors, and received charming balloon animals that added to her excitement.
ZaRiyah’s favorite foods were part of the celebration too. She savored chicken tenders, pizza, a delicious birthday cake, and plenty of ice cream. The joy on her face as she enjoyed these treats was evident and heartwarming. Her excitement
was so palpable that it spread to everyone around her, making the day even more special.
Her family was deeply grateful for the effort and care that went into making ZaRiyah’s birthday unforgettable. Grandpa, reflecting on the event, remarked on how challenging it will be to top this celebration in the future. Mom, with a heart full of gratitude, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Make-A-Wish team, praising their generosity and dedication.
The celebration was made even more special with a thoughtful care package filled with ZaRiyah’s favorite things. This final touch added to the magic of the day, leaving ZaRiyah with wonderful memories and a sense of joy that will stay with her for a long time.
Scan to Watch ZaRiyah’s Wish Reveal
I wish to be a pilot
13 lymphoma
Ben,
MEET BEN
Ben is a smart and creative 13-year-old who has a great sense of humor. After being diagnosed with lymphoma, Ben has had to focus his energy on treatment receiving chemotherapy every three weeks for eight days. After his last chemo session, he graduated to only at-home weekend chemo, and throughout his whole experience, his parents, sister, and brother have been by his side.
A freshman in high school on the engineering track, Ben plans to graduate with not only a high school degree but also an associate degree in engineering. He is passionate about anything aeronautical including planes, drones, and rockets. As an engineer and aeronautical buff, it was only fitting that Ben’s wish was to become a pilot.
He has always been curious to learn about the cockpit of a plane and how all the instruments operate. He wanted to know what is involved in preparing for a flight, how to read the weather, and how to communicate with the FAA controllers.
What makes this wish even more special is that Allegiant Airlines, a cherished partner of Make-AWish Southern Nevada for over a decade, provided Ben with the ultimate aviation experience. From pre-flight to takeoff and landing, Ben’s dream took flight in ways he never imagined.
Ben went through some of the training that Allegiant pilots receive as part of his experience. He flew the Airbus simulator where he learned about the instrumentation of the aircraft. The simulators that Ben experienced first-hand are the closest that a pilot can get to experiencing flying the aircraft so they can replicate weather patterns, turbulence events, and anything that an airline pilot might face during flight.
Ben has always been fascinated with planes, and the thrill he felt while in control of the simulator was unforgettable. From meeting the Allegiant staff to diving into the intricate details of being a commercial pilot, Ben absorbed every moment of the experience. The skills and insights he gained will not only stay with him but also fuel his passion for aviation, inspiring him as he continues to chase his dreams and navigate his future endeavors.
