Eighteen-year-old Marisa wants people to know her story – especially teenage hospital patients. She battled a life-threatening illness and came out on top but has more than just memories and her health to show for it. During her recovery, she asked wish granters from the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of New Mexico to document her progress – and setbacks.
With the help of Comcast Cable, a local television reporter, and a production crew dedicated to Marisa's cause, videotape started rolling. For months, Marisa and her cohorts worked to put together the masterpiece. Appearing in the film were Marisa's mother, her older brother who donated a kidney, the teen's doctors in Minneapolis, her dog Demi, and other important figures.
Once completed, 150 friends, family members, and Make-A-Wish® sponsors gathered for the premiere, set at Albuquerque's Historic Hiland Theatre. The evening's festivities included Marisa's arrival in a white limousine, a stroll down the red carpet, hors d'oeuvres, and punch. Finally, the guests were treated to the 26-minute documentary entitled "We Don't All Die – A Story of Childhood Cancer." The viewers were left speechless. A long line formed in the theatre's lobby with people wanting to shake Marisa's hand, give her a rose, or get her autograph.
Looking back, Marisa says she's thrilled with the way her video turned out. She hopes to have it shown to families across the country that are dealing with youngsters fighting life-threatening illnesses. Marisa is planning to graduate with her high school classmates and then study nursing in college. Her goal is to specialize in oncology and work in the ward where she was treated at Fairview University Medical Center. When that wish comes true, the patients will discover what it's like to have a nurse who has walked in their shoes.
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Marisa, I congratulate you for your spirit and courage. I know what you must have gone through. I am sure you will be the best of the nurses.
- Jackie 08/29/2006 14:43 -
Marisa gave so much of herself in her production. Her wish will help many other children and their families cope. What a special girl she must be to want to go on giving and become a nurse. You are special in many ways, Marisa!
- Kathleen 08/29/2006 14:45 -
Marisa, thanks for putting your story forward. Perhaps some family or child will be encouraged with your courage to tell your story, even when you did not know the end. Congratulations and best wishes for continued good health.
- Gloria 08/29/2006 14:42 -
I can't believe that there could be such a person so wonderful. It touches my soul to know you're out there. Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity. If there were more people like you in the world, maybe it would be a better one. I hope all your dreams come true, and you have a happy and fulfilling life. You're an inspiration to us all.
- Kimberly 08/29/2006 14:41 -
I want to thank Marisa because she has inspired a lot of people. If I could say one thing, it would be to never give up on yourself or others. God bless Marisa and her recovery.
- Kristin 08/29/2006 14:43 -
I love Marisa's story and I wish her all the best in her career. She's blessed to have such a wonderful brother and so many friends.
- Robin 08/29/2006 14:44 -
Thank you so much for giving me back my faith. My 12 year old daughter has been diagnosed with the same thing. Your story gives me hope that she will beat the odds
- Mellisa 01/18/2008 3:57
© 2006 Make-A-Wish Foundation® of America