Life is full of surprises—good and bad. When I was diagnosed with cancer at 17, I never imagined anything good could come from it. But on my first night in the hospital, I received a backpack filled with items for teens—a gift from a former wish kid named Harry. He included a letter, making me feel seen, understood and empowered to believe I’d survive. 

Cancer tried to break me down, but helpers like Harry wouldn’t let it. Treatment was brutal. Being away from my home, friends and family felt even harder. To escape reality’s sting, I turned to video games—the only thing that felt normal while I lay in that uncomfortable hospital bed. 

When I learned I could make a wish, I wanted to bring hope to other kids fighting illness, like Harry did for me. I wished to provide 11 handheld gaming consoles to Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital—one for each oncology room. The Bungie Foundation funded them, and my wish became our chapter’s 9,000th wish granted. A good surprise, for once. 

On my wish day, the surprises kept coming – including meeting one of our local chapter’s co-founders, Penni Maples, whose words illuminated a brighter future I was creating.

As I stood cheering, a wave of emotion hit me. Before me walked Tucker—a quiet, brave young man—pulling two carts filled with gaming consoles he wished to donate to the hospital where he received cancer treatment. I’d spent years here as an RN. It’s where our chapter’s first wish kids were treated. And now our 9,000th wish was coming true!

After the cheers faded, Tucker read a letter he’d written for the kids who would play those games—just as he had. Each console carried his words: a message of comfort, courage, and connection.

“My hope for you is that these video games give you the chance to not think about what you’re going through—and just help you find some happiness while you’re here.”

His vulnerability and courage sparked applause. And then Dr. Robert Irwin thanked Tucker, sharing how his gift would bring joy to countless others. He was a role model for all of us.

Then I spoke—about how far we’ve come, and how wishes don’t happen by luck. They happen because of people like Tucker, his care team, the Bungie Foundation, Starlight Children’s Foundation, and every volunteer and supporter who showed up on that sunny Wednesday to celebrate.

I told Tucker his wish would have a ripple effect far beyond that day. His smile told me it already had.

That day, my heart swelled 9,000 times over. And I can’t help but wonder: What will our 10,000th wish be?

Remember – you’re part of our legacy! Thank you for helping kids like Tucker not only receive hope—but pass it on.

Special thanks to The Bungie Foundation, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, Costco, Penni Maples, Dr. Irwin and wish-granting volunteers, Barbi Hawkins and Brianna Schreeder.