For wish alum Tiara, her health journey has inspired her to give back to others. 

Tiara faced medical challenges from a young age. At just one year old, the DC native required a liver transplant due to a rare condition she was diagnosed with. Her mother made a selfless decision to donate a portion of her liver, giving Tiara a second chance at life. However, after ten years, her liver began to fail again, leading to another transplant that ultimately restored her health. 

In 2009, shortly after her second transplant, Tiara learned she was eligible for a wish through Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic. Her wish? A magical Disney cruise with her family. It was a dream come true—an all-inclusive, five-day adventure filled with endless activities, laughter, and joy. For Tiara, it was more than just a trip; it was a chance to experience life as a carefree kid, free from the weight of her illness. 

"This was our first family cruise," Tiara recalls, "something I never thought we could do." The experience allowed her to see her parents at ease, knowing she was healthy and happy, a feeling she cherished deeply. The cruise became a pivotal moment in her life, providing a fresh perspective and a sense of normalcy she had longed for during her years of struggle. 

Reflecting on her journey, Tiara emphasizes how the pain she endured shaped her resilience and gratitude.

This transformative experience ignited her desire to give back, leading her to establish the Royalty Transplant Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families facing similar challenges. 

Through her foundation, Tiara provides education, resources, and emotional support to those navigating the complexities of organ transplantation, such as the physical, emotional and financial challenges that arise. She understands the importance of community and connection, offering guidance to others on their medical journeys. 

To kids facing their own medical challenges, Tiara shares heartfelt advice: “Going through a tough medical journey can be overwhelming, but it’s important to stay positive and focus on small victories, even on difficult days. Lean on your support system—whether it’s family, friends, or your healthcare team—because they’re there to help you through it. Remember that you’re stronger than you think, and trust in your ability to overcome the challenges ahead. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your treatment or what’s happening with your body; understanding your situation can make it less frightening. It’s also essential to find joy in the things you love, like hobbies or music, as they help you stay connected to who you are.” 

She continues, saying: “Take things one day at a time, and celebrate every bit of progress, no matter how small. It’s okay to dream about the future and set goals for yourself, even during tough times—believe that brighter days are ahead. Know that you’re not alone; there are others going through similar experiences, and connecting with them can make you feel less isolated. Be kind and patient with yourself, as healing takes time, both physically and emotionally. Above all, hold on to hope. No matter how difficult things get, believing that things will get better can give you the strength to keep going.” 

Tiara's story is one of triumph, resilience, and hope. Through her experiences, she has learned to cherish every moment and to strive for a life filled with purpose, determined to make a positive impact on others just as someone once did for her.