When Marisa Boidi of North Easton, MA, describes her daughter, Natalia, resiliency shines through. Diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy as an infant, Natalia spent nearly half of her first year of life in the ICU. Now 8, she has 11 specialists and frequent medical appointments and procedures, yet approaches it all with her characteristic upbeat, spunky spirit.
“Prior to her wish, the furthest Natalia had been from home was Boston for medical care. I had this feeling on her wish trip that Natalia was seeing the world for the first time and it was so amazing,” shares Marisa as she reflects on Natalia’s 2022 wish to go to Walt Disney World®Resort.
Marisa, who works as Business Systems Analyst at Kirkwood, was inspired to support Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island as both a donor and a fundraiser. She and her family are involved in the Wish Community alumni program and have participated in several fundraising opportunities, most recently, the 2025 Make-A-Wish Gala. Natalia was part of the 2024 Make-A-Wish Candles campaign and also loved sharing her story herself with employees at a local company, helping to engage them in our mission.
“Make-A-Wish helped my daughter become even more of a fighter, brought her joy, and continues to do so. I’m doing my part to help other kids and families experience a wish. Believe me, these kids earn it. Every dollar I raise, big or small, I know what it’s going to and it brings me such joy and fulfillment,” says Marisa.
Marisa Boidi