Meet Our Wish Kids

Andre was born with hydrocephalus – water on the brain. Constant hospitalizations and 23 operations left no time for birthday parties. So, as his eighth birthday approached, Andre told Make-A-Wish volunteers about his wish for a birthday bash – and the party was on!

On B-Day, Andre found his yard transformed into a carnival with streamers, balloons, and 100 guests. But more surprises were coming! A face-painting clown and a magician arrived and before long a celebrity impersonator pulled up in a limo to dazzle the crowd with a great show. Everyone enjoyed pizza, hot dogs, and cake. Then, Andre was escorted to a seat of honor in front of his house, where police had closed off the street. A 55-piece band marched down the street, performing "Happy Birthday."

After his exciting birthday celebration, Andre went to his room and got his special penny jar containing all of his life savings, $37. When Andre gave his penny jar to the Make-A-Wish volunteers, he told them to use the money to help another child's wish come true.

"Make-A-Wish gave me the best birthday party," said Andre, "it jump-started my life! Today, I'm 25 years old. I'm an Accounting Rep…And – I'm engaged to be married."