Cathy's Story: 'Everybody Can Do Something Small and Make it Have an Impact'

Cathy is a dedicated Make-A-Wish donor, driven by her belief in the profound impact that every contribution can make for children with critical illnesses.

She was originally inspired to become a WishMaker after witnessing the life-changing effect that Make-A-Wish had on her boss’s son, who was diagnosed with brain cancer 18 years ago. “We had kids that were the same age, so it kind of hit home,” she recalled. His wish being granted marked the beginning of Cathy’s long-standing commitment to the Make-A-Wish mission.

Cathy’s involvement as a WishMaker doesn’t stop with monetary donations, though, making her contributions even more meaningful – and tangible for her. Being involved with granting Seven’s wish is now one of Cathy’s most memorable experiences as a WishMaker. “I was asked to be a liaison between [local] schools and Make-A-Wish to help make Seven’s wish come alive,” she said. Cathy coordinated more than 1,000 students from the different schools to line the streets in support, wearing matching shirts recognizing Seven’s wish day. “It was crazy overwhelming … seeing all the shirts in one place at one time,” she said, reflecting on the emotional impact of the event. Cathy even used her retirement job to personalize Seven’s chef coat, a testament to how one child’s wish can influence anyone to do whatever is in their power to create a life-changing experience.

Her deep involvement as a WishMaker only strengthens her belief in the Make-A-Wish mission. “I choose to donate to Make-A-Wish because it impacts kids in such a huge way. Will you join me in making wishes come true?” she asks, adding that even the smallest donation from WishMakers like you can have a lasting effect in your community.