In a world often marked by adversity and challenges, stories of resilience shine brightest. Meet Robin of Ewa Beach, a remarkable young woman, now 21, who has faced the trials of life with unwavering courage and determination. Formerly a wish kid herself, Robin is now a shining beacon of hope, serving as an intern and volunteer wish granter with Make-A-Wish Hawaii. Her journey from a diagnosis of leukemia and type 1 diabetes to becoming a dedicated advocate for wish kids is nothing short of inspiring. 

Robin’s life took a dramatic turn when, at the age of 14, she was diagnosed with leukemia. The news came as such a shock, especially for a teenager preoccupied with school, clothes and friends. Her battle with the disease led to years of grueling hospital stays and chemotherapy, but in 2018, Robin faced the daunting reality that she needed a bone marrow transplant to survive. With the devastating news came an unexpected turn—her younger sibling was a match. Her hero turned out to be her sweet 8-year-old little brother.” 

Amidst her medical emergency, Robin experienced profound loneliness and depression. She yearned for friendship and the simple joys of being a carefree teenager. It was during this challenging time that Make-A-Wish volunteers posed a question that would change her life forever: “If you could wish for anything, what would it be?” 

Robin longed for the fun of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and had heard wonderful things about Give Kids the World (GKTW)—a “storybook” resort in Central Florida where children with critical illnesses and their families get the royal treatment.  

The impact of her wish was transformative. For Robin and her family, it was a respite from worry and a chance to experience pure joy. She recalls the thoughtful gestures by Make-A-Wish Hawaii staff, such as a stocked refrigerator with her favorite sugar-free Gatorade. “It made me feel so special, knowing people cared about making me happy,” she says.  

Robin doesn’t want any wish kids to feel as alone as she once did. She believes in the power of connecting with others who have faced similar challenges. “You feel like you’re in the battle by yourself,” she says. “If you see people who have come out of it, it can inspire others who are still in the fight.” 

Her resilience and determination have led her to become an inspiration for others. As she pursues her college degree, she dreams of becoming a child life therapist—a profession that allows her to provide support to children facing medical challenges, just as she once did. 

And she’s now back where it all started, four years later, interning with Make-A-Wish Hawaii’s program department. Robin’s story is a testament to the power of a wish and the boundless potential of the human spirit!