Zaria, a Bronzeville teen, wished to bring her friends together for fashion filled night of fun. After nearly two years of feeling isolated and stressed, she was ready to celebrate with her favorite people. Diagnosed with sickle cell disease, Zaria, 13, faces some difficult things related to her life-threatening condition including constant vigilance and many doctor visits.

Nevertheless, she loves to hang out with her friends and family, is an enthusiastic member of the cheer team and loves to dance and draw. Having friends be part of her wish was important to Zaria, and she ultimately decided to wish for a sneaker ball where everyone can dress up and show off their best kicks.

Make-A-Wish granted her wish complete with DJ, dancing, treats and more. Volunteers arranged for Zaria and some of her closest friends to get party-ready with hair and nail appointments and travel to the venue via party bus.

Hosted at salonlb., a beautiful gallery space in Chicago, Zaria's party featured a buffet of her favorite foods, three custom cakes and a selection of sweets. In addition to the dancing and food, guests enjoyed posing in the photo booth and experiencing the vibrant art that decorated the space. Extended family members enjoyed catching up to celebrate Zaria and everyone left with full hearts from the camaraderie.

After her wish, her family shared how much it meant to Zaria and to them.

“It provided our family with something POSITIVE to look forward to; it gave us hope!”

A wish helps kids look past their limitations, helps families overcome anxiety and helps entire communities experience joy. According to recent research wishes can improve a child’s quality of life.

See some highlights of Zaria's wish and her from her in her own words why this wish was important to her in the video below.