I wish to see castles in Scotland
Daviney, wish granted 2016
respiratory disorder
The Lifelong Power of a Wish
At birth, I was diagnosed with a lifelong respiratory illness. Much of my childhood was shaped by feeding tubes, breathing treatments, and frequent hospital stays. Gaining enough weight to stay healthy was a daily struggle, and medical routines were simply part of life.
In 2016, my family learned I qualified for a Make-A-Wish experience. At first, the idea was frightening — we didn’t know what it meant. But saying yes changed everything. That decision introduced us to Kelly and Bonnie, my Wish Granters, who quickly became far more than volunteers. They showed me love, excitement, and genuine care from the very beginning. To this day, we consider them part of our family.
They showed me love, excitement, and genuine care from the very beginning. To this day, we consider them part of our family.
My wish was to see castles in Scotland. For a girl whose life was often measured in treatments, calories, and hospital stays, that wish opened the door to imagination, adventure, and wonder. As I walked through ancient stone castles, surrounded by history and beauty, I wasn't a patient. I was simply a kid living out my dream. It put me on top of the world and allowed me to feel unstoppable. It also gave me the opportunity to do something that I previously felt was only ever going to be a dream. For the first time, I wasn’t defined by diagnoses or treatments. That experience gave me something lasting: hope.
When I faced a 21-day hospitalization in fifth grade, those memories mattered more than ever. And even now, ten years later, I still draw strength from that wish. I’m currently a student at Hamline University studying investigative forensic science and criminology, and a member of the lacrosse team. On hard days — whether in the classroom or on the field — the confidence and joy from my wish continue to carry me forward.
That is the power of a wish.
On Giving Hearts Day, February 12th, you can help create that same hope for children facing critical illnesses in our community. Your support helps turn fear into possibility and gives children something to hold onto long after the wish is complete. Please donate for wish kids like me.
Best wishes,
Daviney McKay
