Jilly's Wish to Give to her Favorite Organizations

As a musical girl with a sweet disposition, 13-year-old wish kid Jillian - who prefers to go by Jilly - from Frederick, MD has always enjoyed expressing herself in creative ways. She is a part of a tight-knit family that’s been with her every step of the way through her difficult treatment process for a genetic disorder, which she’s battled through courageously. Jilly is full of love and her care for others shines through brightly. 

When her original wish to go to Disney proved impossible because of COVID-19, Jilly went back to the drawing board with the Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic team met with Jilly to discuss the various possibilities for her wish. Jilly had an idea of receiving private music instrument lessons for one of the four instruments she plays, but once she learned she could use this opportunity to benefit others, she immediately knew she wanted to give to her favorite organizations instead. 

Three deserving organizations, Cure SMA, Frederick Food Bank, and the Frederick Center, received a donation from Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic on Jilly’s behalf. Jilly was all smiles, surrounded by love, and full of excitement on her wish day. She was honored with a party to celebrate, where the $1,600 checks would be presented to the organizations, and everybody was able to shower her with gifts and heartfelt speeches. Jilly’s family, friends, Mayor Connor and Delegate Young were all in attendance, and even issued official declarations in her honor. Jilly’s generosity will be remembered by her community for years to come, as her selfless act provides hope, strength, and joy for so many.