Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Launches Summer of Wishes

Wishmaker Del Papa Distributing Helps to Grant Wish Trip for Victoria Teen

VICTORIA, TX (June 27, 2024) – Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana kicked off its Summer of Wishes campaign with a tropical island getaway for a Victoria, Texas teen. Hannah, 18, leukemia, wished to go to a tropical paradise to see beautiful blue waters and white sandy beaches. Thanks to WishMaker, Del Papa Distributing, Hannah got to dip her toes into a crystal blue oasis this past month.

“It is such an honor to help bring wishes to life for kids in the communities we serve. Partnering with Make-A-Wish is always a highlight for our employees and something they remember for years to come. We love building relationships in our communities and are proud to do so through making wishes come true,” said Caylin Wiebe of Del Papa Distributing.

Hannah’s wish marks the fourth wish brought to life by the Del Papa Distributing team. Through this partnership, Del Papa has gifted over $50,000 over the past four years towards Make-A-Wish’s critical mission to grant life-changing wishes for eligible children. Currently, over 1,250 wish kids are on a journey towards their wish being granted across our chapter territory. Six of those children are based in Victoria.

“Every wish is a unique way for us to celebrate the gift of giving back a piece of childhood. This trip was a beautiful way for Hannah to celebrate the end of her journey with leukemia, while enjoying the vibrant rays of sunshine to warm her heart,” said Mari Bosker, Senior Director of Corporate Engagement for Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. “We are so thankful for Del Papa’s generous support of our mission over the years, and we look forward to continuing to grant even more wishes in the Victoria area.”

Summer should be a time of joy for children – full of rest, relaxation, play and fun in the sun. But kids with critical illnesses are often missing out on the excitement of summer – forced to stay indoors, isolated from their siblings and friends who are playing outside. Many are even enduring painful treatments that are exhausting and can create a very dark chapter during a time that should be filled with sunshine and warm memories. A wish can change everything for these children – giving them the strength and hope they need to persevere in the fight against their illness. The Summer of Wishes campaign is focused on making sure every eligible child has a chance to have their wish granted – while also giving back the opportunity to be a child again.

All media interested in a follow-up story with Hannah and her family, and/or Del Papa Distributing, can contact Michelle Mason, Director of Marketing & Communications for Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana at [email protected], or (713) 562—5594. To see pictures from Hannah’s wish celebration, click here.