LA Gala Raises $2 Million for Make-A-Wish Foundation, Highlighting Emotional Impact of Children's Dreams

The Make-A-Wish Foundation's Greater LA gala, held recently in Century City, successfully raised $2 million, with the cost of granting a single wish for a terminally ill child amounting to $10,000. The event, attended by approximately 500 guests, underscored the profound emotional impact of fulfilling children's dreams.

The foundation's origins trace back to the story of Chris Greicius, a 7-year-old boy battling leukemia who wished to become a police officer. This inspiring event led to the establishment of Make-A-Wish chapters across the nation and globally.

Attendees shared poignant reflections on the wishes granted and those that could not be fulfilled in time. Bill Fishel, a former board chair, spoke of the heartbreak associated with 'rush wishes' – those that must be granted quickly due to a child's declining health. He noted that the emotional toll affects volunteers deeply, stating, "All of us... Me too." The process involves volunteers working with children and their families to understand their dreams, followed by fundraising efforts to make these wishes a reality.

The wishes themselves range from elaborate trips, such as to Disneyland and Hawaii, to more selfless requests, like a girl who wished to fund a program to help other children have their wishes granted. Honoree Dana Guerin, founder of Guerin Children’s pediatric unit at Cedars-Sinai, shared lighter wish examples, including a boy who wanted to experience the smell of a sea lion's breath and another who desired to run a pickle factory.

Testimonials from wish recipients highlighted the joy and positive impact of the foundation's work. Kyla, a wish recipient who is now doing well, recounted her trip to Disney World and her excitement about using a FastPass to skip lines. Kira, a 17-year-old battling a malignant brain tumor, had her wish to reunite with her grandparents in Ukraine granted over the summer.

Figure skating legend Tara Lipinski, who has supported the cause since her teenage years through a touring show partnership with Make-A-Wish, emphasized the significance of these joyful moments. "These small moments of joy make such a huge impact," she said. "It puts everything into perspective."

The gala attendees, many of whom have personal connections to the cause, demonstrated a strong sense of community and commitment. The event's success, raising $2 million, reflects the collective effort to bring joy and hope to children facing serious illnesses, with each contribution playing a vital role in making these wishes come true.