Carnival helps wishes come true
Make-A-Wish Delaware, partnering with Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes, had its first Giving Day July 30 to raise funds to help grant one wish a day for local children with critical illnesses.
The family-friendly carnival featured animal visits thanks to Barnhill Preserve in Frankford, a bounce house, face painting and a dunk tank.
Since 1986, Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware and Susquehanna Valley has fulfilled more than 6,700 wishes. “The wishes are life-changing,” said Michelle Wall, community relations manager with Make-A-Wish. “Each wish is child-specific and unique.”
One child was fascinated with the animated movie “Rio,” and especially the blue macaw who was the star of the film. “The wish was fulfilled with a trip to Brazil to see real macaws,” Wall said.
Other wishes have included trips to Disney World, the most requested wish, and even the Eiffel Tower. One teenager had his wish fulfilled when he received a three-digit license plate tag.
Wall said other children choose to benefit others with their wishes. One child had the chemotherapy chairs redesigned at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children.
She said children are referred to the program by doctors and social workers.
In Sussex County, 19 wishes were granted in 2018 and six have been granted so far this year.
