Beverly’s story is one of love, devotion, and a commitment to creating a lasting legacy of joy and hope for children with critical illnesses. It begins with a remarkable woman whose compassion and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone she touched. Beverly’s life was filled with artistic pursuits, service to her community, and, most notably, her passion for granting wishes through Make-A-Wish.
Inspired by her volunteer efforts in local children's hospitals, Beverly helped to create a wildly successful annual Holiday fundraising tradition benefiting Make-A-Wish. Beverly's infectious spirit permeated the room each Christmas and inspired a gathering centered on giving rather than receiving. A hallmark of this Holiday event was Ryan's Christmas Tree, where those in attendance could tie on donations of any amount. This tree stood in memory of Beverly's son-in-law's little brother, Ryan Thrasher, whose Wish to Disney World was left unfulfilled after his passing. This heartfelt initiative became a family tradition and a way for Beverly to ensure that other children’s wishes would come true. Beverly always believed that, "Little by little, a little would become a lot." What at once was a dream to raise enough money to fund one Wish ultimately became an event where many Wishes were granted due to her efforts.
After Beverly’s passing in 2008, her daughter Laine Santamaria carried her legacy forward, channeling her mother’s passion into a permanent tribute: Beverly’s Giving Tree Wish Gallery and Endowment. This endowment ensures that wishes will be granted in Beverly’s memory for generations to come. Laine, a Pediatric Oncology Physician Assistant turned entrepreneur, co-founded Make-A-Wish Houston’s W.I.S.H. Society in honor of her mother and the values she instilled. Laine's siblings, Kristin Thrasher and Tyler Scott, were honored as W.I.S.H. Society honorees and also remain passionate, together with their spouses, about their contributions to Make-A-Wish.
For this family, granting wishes is deeply personal. It is their way of keeping Beverly’s light alive and celebrating her unwavering belief in the power of kindness. Beverly’s Giving Tree is more than an endowment—it is a testament to the impact one family can have when they turn loss into love and legacy. As marked at Beverly's final resting place, "One person, one time, one place, one choice can make an overwhelming difference."
If you’re inspired by Beverly’s story and would like to create your own legacy of wishes, we invite you to learn more about planned giving by visiting Planned Giving - Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast & Louisiana or contacting Nicole Gabler at [email protected]. Together, we can make an enduring impact.
