Hold onto your hockey sticks! This is the inspiring story of Joey, an eight-year-old champion from Abingdon, Maryland. Joey is battling an endocrine disorder, but this does not stop him from doing the things he loves the most. When he is not devouring his favorite food, pizza, Joey can be found zipping around on his scooter or making a splash in the pool.

Joey’s treatment for his condition requires frequent trips back and forth to Minnesota with his dad. It was during these hospital stays that Joey discovered a newfound passion for hockey- particularly for the Minnesota Wild. He would spend hours glued to the television watching hockey games, mesmerized by the action and the players’ skill. This passion of his even led him to start taking ice-skating lessons!

Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic partnered with Make-A-Wish Minnesota to grant Joey’s wish to be a Minnesota Wild hockey player! Upon arriving in Minnesota, Joey and his dad visited the Minnesota Wild’s practice facility, where Joey got to spend a lot of time with his favorite player, Dakota Mermis. They spent the day skating together on the ice, sharing hockey knowledge, and no doubt, creating memories that the two of them will cherish for a lifetime. Joey also got a VIP tour of the practice facility, and he signed a one-day contract with the Wild’s coach!

Joey’s trip to Minnesota concluded with watching the Minnesota Wild take on the Ottawa Senators. Joey participated in the pre-game player walk-in, all decked out in a suit and tie. Joey and his dad had prime seats for the game, and the team mascot Nordy even delivered Joey a piece of cake during the game! The Minnesota Wild won the game 3-2, the icing on top of the cake (literally)!

Joey’s story is a reminder that even when facing the toughest of times, there is still room for hope and joy. His journey from the hospital room to the hockey rink is inspirational, and a true testament to the power of wishes. Thank you to the Minnesota Wild for making Joey’s wish a reality!