Being diagnosed with a critical heart condition would shake the ground beneath anybody’s feet. This was the reality for nine-year old Kayleigh and her family, especially with the whirlwind of treatment and hospital visits that followed. But when Kayleigh learned of her soon-to-be-granted wish, that whirlwind paused. Together, Make-A-Wish New Hampshire and Kayleigh built an experience that served as a spark of hope amidst her health difficulties—a wish for an epic New York City shopping adventure.

For every moment of her medical journey that she couldn’t control, Kayleigh’s voice was ever present throughout her wish experience. Whisked away to the Big Apple (first by limo, and then by train) Kayleigh’s wish also gave her and her family a reprieve from time spent worrying or in hospital waiting rooms. Some essential New York pitstops included The Bronx Zoo and the M&M store. While the heart of Kayleigh’s wish lay in visiting the American Girl Doll store, not just any doll would do. Kayleigh’s true dream was to make an American Girl Doll who looked just like her! With a little work and lots of smiles, Kayleigh’s doll was a perfect match—right down to the green streaked hair. To top things off, Kayleigh got to share this magical experience with her little brother. As they made their personalized dolls, they got to focus on the real duty of being a kid: having fun!

Through it all, Kayleigh’s smile lit New York from the inside. The end of Kayleigh’s time in New York did not signal the end of this wish’s impact on her life. Even as their trip drew to a close, the memories Kayleigh and her family made together would serve as a reminder of their strength, and a spark of hope for better days to come.