Striking a pose in New York City, Randallyn’s wish to be a supermodel was everything she hoped for!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Cayenne Pe‘a - Board Chair
Tricia Fujikawa Lee – Treasurer
Travis Kikuchi – Secretary
Todd Bedford
Deanna Butler
Tom Calame
Erik DeRyke
Julianne Erickson
Rick Fried
Michelle Ho
Charles Hunter
Todd Iacovelli
Martin Marino
Joe Medwetz
Brenda Mitchell
Katie Pickman
Dr. Angela Pratt
Jade Richardson
Mike Rompel
Ed Schultz
Andrew Shimabukuro
Garret Sugai
Dr. Rupa Wong
Aaron Yamasaki
CONNECT WITH US @MAKEAWISHHAWAII
Aloha,
September 1 marked the start of a new fiscal year, and we are excited for what lies ahead! In Fiscal Year 2025, we’ll work together to reach our goal of granting 90 local wishes. Mahalo for your commitment to bringing the power of a wish to Hawaii keiki.
Granting wishes takes a community. Just last month, we proudly launched the Wish Society—an exclusive group of compassionate individuals committed to forever changing the lives of our wish keiki and their families. Members of the Wish Society play a crucial role in making wishes come true by contributing $1,000 or more annually, or by giving $84 or more as a monthly donor, bringing hope, strength, and joy to children across the state through the power of a wish.
With your heartfelt support, we can build a steady, reliable revenue stream to grant wishes today and for years to come. Imagine the lasting impact your commitment can bring to children and their families when they need it most; you have the power to help them find the strength they need to fight their illnesses and envision a brighter future.
I’m also excited to welcome the newest members of our leadership community! Please join me in extending a warm aloha to Todd Bedford, Deanna Butler, Erik DeRyke, Travis Kikuchi, Tricia Fujikawa Lee, Ed Schultz, and Garret Sugai, who have joined our Board of Directors. We are also welcoming eight new members to our Young Leaders Board. Their heartfelt dedication to our mission, paired with diverse skills, will play a crucial role in our efforts to grant a wish for every eligible child. You can learn more about our new leaders in this issue.
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to share this year’s gala, WISH! In the Wild, will be held on Saturday, May 3 at the Sheraton Waikiki. Get ready to step into a world where the wonders of the wild meet the magic of wishes, all in support of our mission to grant lifechanging wishes for keiki battling critical illnesses. WISH! In the Wild is an expedition with purpose, and we can’t wait to share more details with you soon. I hope to see you there!
In other exciting news, for the third consecutive year, Make-A-Wish has been recognized as the #1 Most Trusted Nonprofit Operating Locally Across 50 States! Based on Morning Consult data, this incredible honor reflects the trust and confidence supporters like you have in our work. Together, we continue to make a profound impact on the lives of wish keiki and their families.
Mahalo for being an essential part of our community, and here’s to another year of hope, joy, and unforgettable wishes!
Much aloha,
Trini Kaopuiki Clark President and CEO
Welcoming new and returning board members to Make-A-Wish Hawaii!
From the moment she was born prematurely, Randallyn faced medical challenges, requiring immediate medevac from her home on Hawai‘i Island to Oahu for the first of three open-heart surgeries. Diagnosed with congenital heart disease, her journey was filled with obstacles—but also incredible strength.
Growing up in Laupahoehoe, Randallyn persevered. While her peers joined sports teams, she had to prioritize treatments. But her warm and vibrant personality wasn’t made for the sidelines. She found new ways to express herself, discovering a love for photography—where she was often the star of her photo shoots.
“I really feel self-love, I love myself,” Randallyn says. During her teen years, she and her cousins often put on makeup, taking turns photographing each other as aspiring models.
Though she loved the stunning backdrops of her island home, Randallyn dreamed of experiencing life as a professional model. She wished to be a supermodel in New York City!
She envisioned receiving the full supermodel treatment: hair, makeup, and a portfolio photoshoot in a New York studio. As she anticipated her wish, memories of her medical hardships began to melt away, replaced by hope and excitement for the future. “It makes me forget about what I went through,” Randallyn shares.
Make-A-Wish Hawaii connected Randallyn with fashion designer Kamalani Casteel to craft Randallyn’s dream dress. “Her favorite color is pink, so definitely we were adding all of the pinks, all of the sparkles, everything that she wanted to be all glitz and glammed up,” Kamalani says.
Randallyn’s dress fitting arrived and she saw the custom-made pink, sparkly dress, she was overjoyed. “I felt like a princess!” she exclaims. Kamalani adds, “Seeing her face when she saw her dress, that just made my heart melt. The confidence and the happiness that she showed—this is what this is for.”
Thanks to the generous support of the Murray Kim ‘ohana, Randallyn and her family traveled to New York City for her wish to come true. It was the first time any of them had been to the Big Apple, and they were thrilled to explore all the city has to offer. They visited iconic landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty, and enjoyed a carriage ride through Central Park. But for Randallyn, the highlight was living out her supermodel dream—shopping in New York City and posing for photos in a professional studio.
She received the full supermodel treatment, starting with hair and makeup before slipping into her stunning custom dress. With pink balloons and a pink backdrop, just as she imagined, Randallyn worked the set for hours, as two photographers captured her from every angle. It was a wish come true!
“It changed my life,” Randallyn reflects. “I got to experience how modeling works. I got to experience what living in New York City is like. But the most important thing that impacted me was spending time with my family.”
Now, Randallyn is considering her future, pondering whether to pursue a career in modeling or automotive detailing. “I like cars, and I like the way some of them look,” she says with a smile.
No matter which path she chooses, Randallyn’s courage and creativity continue to shine—proving that her strength, like her dreams, is limitless.
Randallyn’s Wish Story
LIFE-CHANGING WISHES
Enjoy a glimpse of recent wishes granted thanks to your generous support!
Andrew’s Wish Brings Connection
Twelve-year-old Andrew’s family moved to Papaikou on Hawai‘i Island from the Philippines during the pandemic in 2020, hoping for a fresh start and new opportunities. But their journey was marked by tragedy when Andrew’s mother was diagnosed with cancer and passed away. Given the strong genetic link of her cancer, Andrew and his brothers were tested, and Andrew was found to have the same type of cancer—at stage 4.
Despite these challenges, Andrew’s optimism and resilience have been unwavering. Gaming became his way to stay connected with loved ones during treatments when he often felt isolated. When it came time to determine his wish, Andrew knew exactly what he wanted—a custom gaming setup with a sit-stand desk, widescreen curved monitor, and light-up accessories.
The wish reveal was an emotional and joyous day for the family, bringing smiles and tears of happiness. Andrew was thrilled and couldn’t wait to set up his new computer and start playing games. His father live-streamed the reveal, deeply moved as his son’s heartfelt wish came true, bringing joy to the entire family during a time when it was needed most.
I wish to go to LEGOLAND Ryan, 9, Ewa Beach neuromuscular disorder
I wish to have a gaming computer Andrew, 12,
Mahalo to the ELC Foundation for helping make Andrew’s wish come true!
Ryan’s Wish to go to LEGOLAND is Granted at the Perfect Time
Nine-year-old Ryan from Ewa Beach is a sweet and determined boy battling a neuromuscular disorder. Four years into his diagnosis, Ryan is now losing coordination, and his family dreamed of his wish to go to LEGOLAND being granted while he could still walk. In July, that dream came true, and Ryan was able to explore the magical world of LEGOLAND with joy and excitement.
Ryan’s wish granters organized a special wish reveal party at Razor Sports in Kapolei. Ryan and his sisters zoomed around the track, their laughter filling the air as they eagerly anticipated the adventures ahead.
In San Diego, Ryan and his ‘ohana made the most of every moment, exploring LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and the beautiful San Diego coastline. The trip was filled with unforgettable memories, from thrilling rides to special family moments by the sea.
“This wish meant so much to our family...We’re so grateful that Make-A-Wish blessed us with this opportunity.”
—RISA-LYN , WISH MOM
Mahalo to the Zilber Family Foundation for helping make Ryan’s wish come true!
Papaikou cancer
I wish to go to Walt Disney World®
Reison, 14, Honolulu nervous system disorder
Mahalo to Alaska Airlines for helping make Reison’s wish come true!
Reison’s Wish to go to Disney World Takes Flight
Reison, 14, of Honolulu, has been bravely battling a nervous system disorder since birth. His persistent seizures have impacted both his mental and physical development, leading to numerous secondary complications.
Reison’s love for Disney movies and his delight for toys that have lights, sounds and music inspired his wish to go to Walt Disney World® where he would experience the Electric Light Parade, an extraordinary adventure for a child who had only ever left home for medical appointments.
Reison’s wish was granted this summer thanks to the heartfelt and generous support of Alaska Airlines. From meticulous coordination weeks in advance to in-flight accommodations for his medical condition, Alaska Airlines’ dedication and care for Reison and his family were truly first class.
At Disney World, Reison experienced many adventures for the first time, including riding carousels, exploring Imagination Land, and watching fascinating light shows.
“We all got to spend time together as a family in a magical place on earth—a beautiful memory that will be kept in our hearts forever.”
—TULPE , WISH MOM
Annika’s
Wish Helps Family Form New Memories
Eight-year-old Annika from Kahului loves all things pink and purple, butter slime, and Jollibee spaghetti. But behind her playful smile is a brave spirit— Annika recently battled cancer. When she learned she was eligible for a wish, Annika’s heart was set on celebrating her birthday at Walt Disney World®. She couldn’t wait to ride the TRON Lightcycle / Run rollercoaster, and when her wish granters, Becky, Jenny, and Keola, revealed that her dream would soon come true, Annika’s excitement was overwhelming. Her mom, Abegail, said the moment warmed her heart.
Annika’s wish was everything she dreamed of and more. She visited Disney parks, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. She met her favorite characters, watched spectacular fireworks, and splashed in the pool at Give Kids The World Village. The weight of cancer faded away, replaced by laughter and joy.
“The wish meant a lot to us, and we are very grateful,” Abegail shares. For Annika and her family, this wish was more than just a trip—it was a celebration of resilience and new memories they will cherish forever.
I wish to go to Walt Disney World®
Annika, 8, Kahului cancer
Welcome, New Leaders!
We are pleased to welcome seven new leaders to our board of directors and eight new members to our Young Leaders Board! Each of them brings a deep passion for our mission and a wealth of expertise that will be invaluable in granting wishes for children with critical illnesses. We are deeply grateful to our entire leadership team for their heartfelt dedication, vision, and guidance. Together, we will continue to bring hope, strength and joy to children and families across the state through the power of a wish.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Todd Bedford
Owner, President and CEO
Lifeline Fire & Security, Inc.
Todd Bedford’s business, Lifeline Fire & Security, Inc., is an independent security integrator specializing in security, access control and video surveillance (CCTV) systems, serving both residential and commercial security markets on all islands across the state. He served as the president of the Kapolei Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade.
Deanna Butler
President and Owner
Hawaii Mortgage Experts
Deanna Butler has a proven track record of successful leadership, excelling in sales, marketing, and community outreach. She is committed to giving back to the community and is a Wish Granter for Make-A-Wish Hawaii and an active volunteer with Hawaii Food Bank, Family Programs of Hawaii, and Toys for Tots.
Erik DeRyke
Vice President of Client Growth and Retention
ProService Hawaii
Erik DeRyke oversees the account management and accounts receivable departments at ProService Hawaii, focusing on customer satisfaction and retention. Erik is a returning member of the Make-A-Wish Hawaii board, having served six years, two as chair. He is also a board member of the I’m A Bright Kid Foundation.
Travis Kikuchi
Senior Vice President and Director of Private Banking
Central Pacific Bank
Travis Kikuchi manages private banking and oversees business development, recruitment, risk management, loan servicing and compliance at Central Pacific Bank. He is actively involved in the community and is serving as secretary on Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s board of directors. As a proud wish dad, he knows firsthand the impact a wish has on critically ill children and their families.
Tricia K. Fujikawa Lee is responsible for overseeing and managing First Hawaiian Bank’s compliance management program and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. She is a member of the Hawaii Bankers Association and was admitted to the American Bar Association as well as the Hawaii State Bar Association in 2006. Tricia is serving as treasurer on Make-AWish Hawaii’s board of directors.
Ed Schultz
President and CEO
Hawaiian Host Group
Ed Schultz is president and CEO of Hawaiian Host, the world’s leading roasted and chocolate-covered macadamia nut brands. Prior to joining Hawaiian Host Group in 2018, he was president and owner of Honolulu Coffee. He was recently appointed by Governor Josh Green to the East-West Center’s Board of Governors.
Garret Sugai
Vice President of Program Offices and Strategic Execution
HMSA
Garret Sugai has more than 25 years of leadership experience in the healthcare industry, including expertise in integrated health care systems, care and service-delivery administration, information technology, and contracting. He also serves as a board member to Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, and the Hawaii Association of Health Plans.
YOUNG LEADERS BOARD
Alissa Bautista
Preconstruction Manager
Rosendin Electric
Teddy Charles Barbosa
Oahu/Maui Island Representative
Hawaii Operating Engineers Industry
Stabilization Fund
Jonathan Chee
Sales Associate
Heyer & Associates
Noah Hedrick
Sales Assistant
Kobayashi Group
Grant Newcombe
Luxury Property Specialist
Elite Pacific Vacations by Gather
Danielle Sturkie
District Manager
ADP Hawaii
Karwin Sui
Communications Manager
American Savings Bank
Allie Talavera
Vice President
Goldman Sachs
Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s Wish Society is comprised of philanthropic partners who provide the vital foundation for us to fulfill our vision of granting the wish of every eligible child. Ongoing support allows us to not only grant the wishes of today, but to grow and innovate so we can grant the wishes of tomorrow. We need committed members to lead the way in ensuring that no child waits even one unnecessary day to experience the magic of a wish!
As a member of the Wish Society, you will be invited to attend exclusive events and enjoy a variety of benefits throughout the year. Being a member of this society will help you learn more about MAWH and engage deeper through opportunities to experience the power of a wish. With an annual contribution of $1,000 or more—or by becoming a monthly donor with a gift of $84—you’ll play a crucial role in bringing hope, strength, and joy to children across the state
We are deeply grateful for your heart for our mission and are looking forward to celebrating your generosity in bringing hope to local keiki when they need it most!
To learn more about the Wish Society and join today, visit hawaii.wish.org/wishsociety.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Jacqueline’s Journey as a Wish Granter
Meet Jacqueline, a mother to four children under the age of 5 and a dedicated volunteer from Hawai‘i Island. Jacqueline’s journey with MakeA-Wish Hawaii began in January 2020. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, she remained unwavering in her commitment to bringing hope, joy, and strength to wish kids when they needed it most. Since joining our wish ‘ohana, Jacqueline has become a Wish Granter for 11 keiki, treating each one like family. Known for her warm heart and kind spirit, she not only creates unforgettable wish reveal parties but also supports other wish granters by storing wish supplies. As a member of the Wish Granting Committee, Jacqueline exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate and dedicated volunteer.
What inspired you to get involved with Make-A-Wish Hawaii?
I’ve always loved giving back and wanted to get involved with Make-A-Wish Hawaii since I’ve always seen such heartwarming stories that I wanted to be a part of.
What do you enjoy most about being a Wish Granter?
I love meeting new kids and families and learning about everything they love.
Can you share a memorable experience from your time as a Wish Granter?
I will never forget my first wish kid, Jayden. He was always so quiet and reserved but as soon as we granted his
wish, his face lit up the entire time. He started talking so much more and we had so much fun playing games at Dave & Buster’s with him.
How does volunteering as a Wish Granter impact you personally?
I feel privileged to be a part of the MakeA-Wish community and honored to volunteer as a Wish Granter.
What is the most rewarding part of your role as a Wish Granter?
I love seeing all my wish kids’ beautiful smiles on their faces and seeing them so happy while forgetting any hardships that they are going through or went through.
MOVIE NIGHT ON MAUI
Maui wish kids and their families were treated to a summer movie night hosted by Shya, a senior at Maui High School, through Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s Kids For Wish Kids program. The event featured slime-making, bracelet crafting, and free toys and backpacks, alongside a screening of “Despicable Me” with yummy snacks. This event was the perfect summer send-off before the school year started!
To learn more about Kids For Wish Kids, contact Mission Impact Advisor James Donnelly at jdonnelly@hawaii.wish.org.
What advice would you give to others who are considering becoming a Wish Granter?
I would tell anyone considering becoming a Wish Granter that if they’re able to commit any spare time to help these kids, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences that not much could replace.
If you’re interested in attending a Wish Granter training, please contact Volunteer Outreach Manager Will Phelps at wphelps@hawaii.wish.org.
Hawaii Softball Foundation’s Support is a Home Run for Wish Kids
Thanks to the Hawaii Softball Foundation’s dedication to community and philanthropy, a teenager fighting for her health found strength in the support of hundreds of girls her age.
Lotus, a resilient 14-year-old from Ewa Beach, was diagnosed with a vascular disorder in August 2022. The diagnosis abruptly shifted her life from catching waves to enduring medical treatments, including two brain surgeries. Despite her challenges, Lotus remains determined to live life to the fullest. Her wish to surf at the exclusive Kelly Slater Surf Ranch symbolizes her unwavering strength.
The Hawaii Softball Foundation hosted a multi-age fastpitch softball tournament in July at the new Mauli Ola Sport Complex in the Sand Island State Recreational Area. More than 300 players from 22 Oahu club softball teams participated, with entry fees, umpire fees, and additional contributions totaling over $10,000 all donated to Make-A-Wish Hawaii to help grant Lotus’ wish.
The tournament, which included teams across three divisions— 14U, 16U, and 18U—also featured a special ceremony where Lotus’ wish was revealed. The event not only raised funds but also served as a powerful reminder to young athletes of the importance of gratitude and community support. “It’s a great opportunity for the kids to realize how lucky they are to run around without hardship,” says Jon Okada, director of Hawaii Softball Foundation. “Watching the reveal, seeing the kids’ reactions, and knowing that we made a difference—it’s an experience that stays with you.”
Okada, who helped establish Hawaii Softball Foundation in 2009, emphasized the organization’s mission to be a voice for
the softball community and to utilize the sport as a vehicle for education, personal development, and community connection. “The sport becomes more than just a game—it teaches life lessons and builds networks,” he explained. The Foundation’s involvement with Make-A-Wish Hawaii is a continuation of its commitment to community service, having previously supported Special Olympics and other charitable causes.
One of the highlights of the tournament came in a break between games. All teams present joined Make-A-Wish Hawaii on one of the softball fields to surprise Lotus with the wonderful news that her wish is being granted. “Lotus was stoked!” shares her mother, Jonna. “It made us very emotional to see all the people who came together to help make it happen.”
To commemorate the occasion, Hawaii Softball League presented Lotus with a custom surfboard, shaped by Robin Johnston, a North Shore shaper. The reveal was moving, with all the players gathered on the field to witness the impact of their participation. “If you can touch one person meaningfully, it’s a win,” Okada said. “And I know we accomplished that.”
Hawaii Softball Foundation plans to make this tournament an annual event, ensuring that the softball community continues to support Make-A-Wish Hawaii and inspire young athletes to give back. For Okada and the Foundation, it’s about creating memorable events that connect, uplift, and remind everyone of the power of gratitude. “Everybody won,” he says.
“Watching the reveal, seeing the kids’ reactions, and knowing that we made a difference—it’s an experience that stays with you.”
— JON OKADA, HAWAII SOFTBALL FOUNDATION
To learn more about bringing your team together in support of Make-A-Wish Hawaii, please contact Arden Salassa, Senior Manager of Corporate Philanthropy and Partnerships, at asalassa@hawaii.wish.org.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Give the Gift of a Wish
Get into the holiday spirit at the merriest community event of the holiday season: Jingle Rock Run, presented by Road Builders Corporation! This festive community walk returns to beautiful Ko Olina Resort on Sunday, December 15.
Bring your ‘ohana for an afternoon filled with jolly fun, including:
• Keiki games, entertainment, and food trucks on the event lawn
• Keiki Sprint, a fun-filled dash for kids ages 12 and younger
• A cheerful 2.5-mile sunset stroll through Ko Olina Resort
• A photo op with Santa Claus
• Dedicated complimentary parking
Prizes will be awarded to the top fundraising team, top fundraising individual, and participant(s) in the most festive costume. Make every step count for wish kids and their families. Register today at jinglerockrun.com and jingle all the way to Ko Olina Resort!
SUPER AMERICAN CIRCUS GRANTS WISHES LIKE SAIPELIA’S
When the Super American Circus comes to town, it brings a whirlwind of magic and entertainment to families across the state of Hawaii. Thanks to Super American Circus selecting Make-A-Wish Hawaii as its nonprofit beneficiary, the circus’ impact extends far beyond each performance, bringing keiki with critical illnesses like Saipelia not only joy, but also hope, for brighter days.
I wish to have a shopping spree
Saipelia, 14, Ewa Beach brain tumor
DOUBLE YOUR GIFT
THANKS TO THE BRAND AND HAWAI‘I FOODSERVICE ALLIANCE
From now through Giving Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Love’s Brand and Hawai‘i Foodservice Alliance are matching every donation made to Make-A-Wish Hawaii up to $25,000! That’s double the dough to help wishes come true for keiki fighting critical illnesses. With Love’s Matching Campaign, your generosity will create more smiles, laughter, and unforgettable memories for wish keiki and their families.
Donate today at hawaii.wish.org/loves.
SUBARU HAWAI‘I SHARE THE LOVE
During Subaru Hawai‘i’s Share the Love sales event, for every new Subaru vehicle purchased in Hawaii between November 1 and December 31, 2024, Subaru Hawai‘i will donate $350 to their Share the Love nonprofit partners— including Make-A-Wish Hawaii! For more information on how you can help fuel wishes, visit subaruhawaii. com. Let’s hit the road together this holiday season and make wish granting part of the journey!
HEMIC
FOUNDATION
TEES UP $40,000 FOR WISHES
Mahalo to HEMIC Foundation for selecting Make-A-Wish Hawaii as the nonprofit beneficiary of its annual charity golf tournament! Thanks to HEMIC Foundation’s heartfelt generosity, $40,000 was raised to help grant lifechanging wishes for local keiki. We were honored to have Wish Kid Aurelia and her mom, Rachel, join Trini Kaopuiki Clark at the check presentation to celebrate this wonderful partnership. Together, we are making wishes come true!
Young Scientist Makes a Splash in Coral Conservation
Parker has always been drawn to the outdoors. This curious 9-year-old boy from Vermont enjoys reading— especially about science and chemistry—and loves to go swimming in the summer and skiing in the winter.
When Parker was diagnosed with cancer, he found comfort in learning about the ocean. During his treatments, he spent countless hours reading about marine life, fostering a deep fascination with coral reefs and the colorful ecosystems they support. Inspired by his passion, Parker made a unique wish: to meet a coral scientist and see the reefs they work to protect. With the help of Make-A-Wish Hawaii and the Coral Resilience Lab at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Parker’s dream became a reality in an extraordinary way.
Parker’s wish day began bright and early at Coconut Island in Kaneohe Bay, where he didn’t just meet one coral scientist—he was greeted by an entire team of experts dedicated to coral restoration. The day started on the water, with Parker taking the helm of a research boat, driving it through the bay, feeling the fresh ocean spray. He then got to snorkel at coral reef sites, swimming alongside his favorite fish, the vibrant yellow tang. For Parker, this was a dream come true—being surrounded by the very marine life he had only read about.
Back at the lab, Parker’s curiosity was in full swing. He had the chance to ask the scientists countless questions and learn firsthand how they study and grow coral to aid in restoration efforts. The lab team guided him through their process using
sophisticated equipment, allowing Parker to capture detailed images of coral, create 3D models, and view them on a microscopic level. This hands-on experience was a thrill for Parker, who absorbed every bit of information like a true scientist.
The highlight of Parker’s visit came in the form of a special surprise from the lab: a concrete base with his name engraved on it, which would become home to a new coral colony planted by Parker and his family. Together, they carefully cut pieces of coral and glued them onto the structure, creating their own contribution to the ongoing coral restoration efforts. The lab promised to nurture these corals, and once they are mature enough, they will be transplanted into the reef at Kaneohe Bay—a living legacy of Parker’s wish.
Both Parker’s family and the Coral Resilience Lab expressed deep gratitude for this memorable experience. For Parker, this wish was more than just a day with scientists—it was a moment of connection to the ocean he loves and a chance to contribute to a brighter future for coral reefs.
Make-A-Wish Hawaii assisted the Make-A-Wish Vermont chapter in granting Parker’s wish. All wishes to visit Hawaii are funded by the children’s home chapters. All funds raised in Hawaii support local wish keiki.
I wish to meet a coral scientist Parker, 9, Vermont cancer
