I wish to give back to the Hope Lutheran Food Bank, wish granted 2019
Giovani
16
brain tumor
Giovani’s wish brings comfort to his community
A young girl stands outside the food bank, in the freezing rain, waiting to go inside for food for her and her family. If anyone understands what she’s going through, it’s Giovani. He also knows what he can do to make her life just a little bit better.
Giovani and his family utilized the New Hope Lutheran Church food bank in previous years. He has remained very close to the organization as a teenager, and regularly volunteered. So, when he was presented with an opportunity to have his wish granted, he could have chosen something material for himself but instead he chose to help others.
Giovani wished to have a custom awning and ramp built for the food bank so people waiting in line in line would be protected from the elements year-round. So, on a particularly hot summer day about 100 of Giovani’s friends, family, fellow parishioners and Make-A-Wish volunteer and staff gathered for a picnic and a ribbon cutting celebration at the food bank in honor of Giovani.
Giovani’s life forever changed when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and later experienced a stroke and multiple surgeries and rounds of treatment, but he turned his own challenges into something positive with his wish. “He never complained about anything,” said his mom, Yolanda.
“After his surgery, Giovani said he felt like he had changed and had a voice. Make-A-Wish helped him discover his ability to make a difference.”
Donate in honor of Giovanni’s wish and help continue his legacy of helping others.
Special thanks to wish-granting volunteers Sue Genzale and Chelsey Anderson, photography volunteer Susie Naye, and Adopt-A-Wish sponsor Macy's.