When Nicci’s daughter, Kylie, was diagnosed with a nervous system disorder in 2019, their lives revolved around therapy appointments and structured routine. The thought of going on a trip as a family felt difficult, so when Kylie was referred to Make-A-Wish Minnesota, she wished to go to Disney World, which provided her and her family an opportunity to reconnect and leave the stress behind them. 

“The trip gave us the priceless gift of stepping away from all [of the stress and appointments],” shared Nicci. “For those days, we were able to simply be a family — laughing, exploring, and making unforgettable memories together. 

While on her wish trip, Kylie experienced so much joy and excitement and reminded them all what it feels like to live in the moment, recalls Nicci. 

“The trip helped us reconnect, recharge, and focus on what truly matters: our time together,” Nicci reflects. “Even years later, those memories continue to lift our spirits on difficult days and serve as a beautiful reminder of hope, kindness, and the incredible generosity that made it all possible. It wasn’t just a trip — it was a lasting source of strength for our entire family.” 

Nicci began volunteering with Make-A-Wish Minnesota during COVID so that she could give back to families who were walking a similar road. “Our trip changed us. It showed us the power of generosity and community, and it made me want to be part of that for someone else. Being able to give back, even in a small way, feels like honoring the incredible gift our family was given,” Nicci shares. 

To Nicci, the most rewarding part of volunteering with Make-A-Wish is being able to bring hope and joy to families during some of the most challenging times. Having been in their shoes before, Nicci knows how meaningful a wish experience is for a child battling a critical illness and their families. 

Nicci wants current wish kids to know that you should “never forget how strong, brave, and incredible you truly are. Even on the hardest days, there are so many people cheering you on and believing in you. Your wish is just the beginning of beautiful memories filled with joy, laughter, and moments that remind you how deeply you are cared for. As a former wish family, I want you to know that the magic doesn’t end when the trip is over. The hope, strength, and happiness you gain will stay with you and your family for years to come. Keep dreaming big, keep smiling, and always believe that amazing things are possible — because you deserve every bit of that joy.”