Sixteen-year-old Danny wants to be a singer, and he is confident he can do it. His favorite school subject is choir. When asked if he'd like to be anybody in the world, he replied, "Myself." Perhaps he was looking for a little career advice when he told wish granters from the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada he wanted to meet singer Shakira.

The teen's whirlwind wish experience began on a Thursday at 10 a.m. when Danny's two wish granters informed him and his mother that Shakira would be arriving at 5 p.m. that day to fulfill the wish. According to one of the wish granters, Danny became so excited that he couldn't stop thanking them.

Before Shakira's arrival, Danny received lots of surprises to enhance his big day. Tower Records donated four posters, and the Southern Nevada chapter framed one. Volunteers decorated his hospital room with hanging musical notes. Danny also received two Shakira CDs, a blue CD player with a remote control, and a headset. For his meeting, wish granters bought him an autograph book, balloons, and a dozen red roses for Danny to present to his heroine.

Finally, Danny's anticipated moment arrived. His favorite entertainer entered his hospital room and had a special introduction. She said, "Do you know me? I'm Shakira. You know, God sent me on a mission to tell you that you will be okay."

Danny handed her the roses and raised his right hand to welcome her. It was shaking from excitement. Due to his life-threatening illness, he was unable to speak out loud, but communicated with Shakira by mouthing words. The gracious artist spoke back to Danny, and also talked with his mother and family. She autographed the posters and CDs, and had pictures taken with people in the room. During the event, a catered meal was available for everyone to enjoy.

Since the meeting, Danny has made positive strides in battling his life-threatening illness. His progress is another example of the strength gleaned from a wish experience.