Make-a-Wish

            The Power of a Wish. The mission statement of Make-A-Wish is “Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.”

            As an eighth grader, I watched one of my classmates suffer a traumatic heart condition. There were times where they didn’t think he would be able to see his next birthday. He and his whole family were under so much stress and anxiety. Their family dynamics would never be the same. But, they were able to go on a week vacation to California for ComiCazi, which is a comics event held every year. My classmate absolutely loves comics, such as Marvel and DC, so for him to be able to attend was a dream come true. The opportunity that Make-A-Wish gave him and his family allowed them to just spend a week without hospitals or check-ups. They were able to just be a family again without any worries.

           

            I chose to partner with Make-A-Wish two years ago because I wanted to be a part of providing these children and their families with joy and hope that they will get through the season of life they are in. Being able to put a smile on the faces of these children and give them even an ounce of happiness and joy is worth all of the hard work.

            I have been given the opportunity to be on the Wine and Wishes planning committee again this year. Wine and Wishes is a banquet and silent auction that they put on every year. The stories from the wish kids that you get to hear are truly incredible and such a blessing. Hearing and being able to meet these kids who are stronger than any of us and to hear all that they have gone through is so very amazing and inspiring.

            I truly believe that volunteering at an organization should never be about a reward or payment, but it should be about what you are able to contribute. By volunteering with Make-A-Wish I have been able to be a part of some of the most amazing and awe-inspiring wishes, but even more than that I have gained a whole new perspective on life. Life is precious and short, every day we are given is an opportunity to bless and help those around us.

One wish at a time,

Paris Arnhalt

Miss Teen North Dakota International 2018