At Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana, we work to deliver hope to children with critical illnesses, but our wish kids inspire hope in us. This past year, one wish kid, in particular, inspired the world.
17-year-old Cody Dorman was born with a rare genetic disorder that limited his ability to move and speak. We were honored to grant his wish and help arrange that first meeting between Cody and Cody’s Wish, the horse that would later become his best friend and a legendary Thoroughbred.
In November of 2023, on the way home from watching Cody’s Wish run and win his final race, Cody died. The Dorman family said in a statement, “Cody watched his best friend, Cody’s Wish, display his usual perseverance and toughness in winning a second Breeders’ Cup. Those are the same characteristics Cody has showed time and again for the 18 years we were blessed to have him. We have been completely amazed to experience the impact Cody has had on so many people, through the journey that this wondrous racehorse has taken us all on.”
Before he died, Cody expressed his desire to help make other wishes come true. At our 2023 W.I.S.H. Luncheon in Lexington, Kentucky, Cody spoke to Make-A-Wish supporters through an adaptive communication device and helped raise more than $80,000. Since his passing, an additional $60,000+ has been raised, and businesses, corporations, and organizations have committed to support Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana in his memory. In all, more than 500 media stories were shared about Cody's inspiring story, reaching over 1 billion people worldwide.
We’re grateful for Cody's impact on us, and countless others. His life and legacy will never be forgotten.
He taught all of us what love and friendship mean. He taught us to believe in ourselves and to always help others.
Faith Hacker
Make-A-Wish Kentucky Market Director