Kalie returns to the stage with the other models for an encore.
For Kalie, dealing with a life-threatening blood disorder– means she’ll always have to be monitored and treated to manage its symptoms. And she doesn’t know when the next bout of pain, infections and anemia are coming.
A hard burden to face, Kalie now draws on the memory of her Make-A-Wish® experience to stay positive and upbeat.
Dr. Jonathan Bernstein – Kalie’s pediatric oncologist – often refers kids for wishes because he is convinced of the positive force of a wish experience.
After he referred Kalie, wish granters visited her to learn her one true wish – to be a supermodel. Her choice wasn’t a surprise to Dr. Bernstein.
“She’s always been very stylish – and very smart!” he says.
Wish granters went to work to create an amazing day for Kalie.
Thirteen-year-old Kalie’s day starts off with a limousine ride to her modeling lesson, followed by a trip to the studio for a photo shoot.
Then the Macy’s Las Vegas staff helps Kalie get ready for the runway, selecting several outfits for a fashion show later that day. Kalie also receives a makeover from Macy’s experts.
“It was awesome to be pampered and fussed over by everyone,” Kalie says.
The new model even has bodyguards to keep pesky paparazzi at by during her makeup session. But Kalie doesn’t let the fame go to her head – she takes time out of her day for lunch with her friends.
Not too long though, it’s time for Kalie to take to the Las Vegas Fashion Show mall’s runway, complete with spectacular lighting and billboard-sized video screens. Kalie is thrilled by the flash of cameras and applause from her friends, family and fans.
Michael E. Minden Diamond Jewelers then presents her with a watch as a keepsake of her modeling debut.
Kalie says from the time she requested her wish she felt her spirits lift up with something else to think about than her illness.
“Focusing on the future was exactly the medicine I needed,” she says.
Dr. Bernstein agrees. He sees how Kalie – usually a bit shy during visits – seems more spirited and outgoing after her wish came true.
— Dr. Jonathan Bernstein, Kalie's pediatric oncologist