Meet Irene

Irene has always had a passion for art. She especially finds joy in drawing, listening to music, and makeup. In 2020, her love of art became stronger when she was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease. For Irene, art and her family are the two main drivers getting her through treatment.

The prospect of receiving a life-changing wish ignited a new sense of hope within Irene, and she knew exactly what to wish for—to be an artist! The teenager couldn’t wait to finally live out her dreams of having her artwork displayed for all to see, because art isn’t just another hobby but a way for her to escape the reality she now faces.

In the days leading up to her wish, Irene was surprised with the news that she would be a featured artist at First Friday – an art, music, and food festival hosted every first Friday of the month in Downtown Las Vegas. Irene immediately immersed herself in her artwork and prepared her best pieces to be on display for the entire Las Vegas community.

Although she knew when her wish would be granted, Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada still made sure to weave in a few surprises. Just days before her wish, Irene was invited to The Wishing Place where she received her very own digital drawing pad and projector so she could draw her artwork live during the festival!

When the day of her wish finally came, Irene couldn’t believe so many people were seeing her artwork and stayed to watch her art come to life. With the temperature starting to warm up across the Valley, the day’s event expected a greater turnout than usual! The local news channel even setup their live broadcast right next to Irene’s booth giving her additional exposure to showcase her art.

With the help of Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada, Irene’s wish was a welcome distraction from the challenges she faces daily due to her condition. Since her wish, Irene’s will to push forward through her medical journey has strengthened along with the eagerness to create