Meet Our Wish Kids

Imagine spending time in a medieval castle where you are the powerful king of your domain. That's what Killian, age 11, wished for when the Make-A-Wish® team came to his home in the Bronx . He thought castles were the coolest and was thrilled at the opportunity to spend a full week in one. Killian has always had a passion and love for anything Irish and it was an easy decision for him to make. From the time he was a little boy and became aware of the existence of Ireland .....the country, people, history and culture captivated him and stole his heart. So, along with his mother, father, sister and his Irish fiddle, he set off to the Watchtower Castle of Bally Portry. Before him awaited the fulfillment of living the reality of what had entered his dreams for so long. He had an extra bonus and that was the additional companionship of his aunt and his best friend to join Killian in this magical land of leprechauns, knights, castles and Irish brogues.

The castle was a journey back to medieval times. It loomed seven stories high against a backdrop of cows meandering in flowered fields. Adding to the beauty were beautiful streams and lakes. Killian's room was filled with a sheepskin covering the floors, a four-posted bed and a fireplace. Killian and his family ate in the kitchen and prepared their own meals from the pantry and fridge that were stocked with food for their stay.

Killian loved everything about his visit but there were several experiences that were outstanding and made the trip even more special. When Killian was 3, he began to study the violin. As his love for anything Irish grew, he learned the Irish fiddle. How terrific was it when he brought his fiddle into local pubs and joined in with the other musicians to add merriment and joy to all those present! For Killian, it was a once in a lifetime highlight! They also climbed the Coast of Moher Cliffs which were gigantic. The views of the countryside, as well as the water, were awesome. It was magical for Killian; taking him back in time to the days he had read about in books and seen in movies. He loved exploring Ireland and visiting the cities of Durham and Claire. However, Killian warned never to eat in an Irish restaurant, the food was terrible. He said, “If you go to Ireland , make sure you get homemade meals from a family-run restaurant.”

Now that the trip is over, Killian wants to get a border collie, which, of course, is an Irish dog. He brought back a hat and some small sheep figurines which sit in his room, reminding him of an amazing adventure. Killian summed up the wish by saying, "It really helped heal me physically and mentally after I'd been through so much to get better." He loved it all and thanks his new Make-A-Wish family for making his dream a reality.