At just 11 years old, Jesse was battling leukemia. His wish gave him the chance to focus on a different battle entirely: a reenactment of the Battle of Gettysburg.

“My wish allowed me to live history, deepening an interest in America, past and present, which has continued to drive me to this day. I feel that I would not be the same person I am today if I had not been granted my wish.”

Now 25, Jesse lives and works in Washington, DC, a city he first visited on his wish trip. He enjoys running and has been a competitive distance runner for over a decade.

“It means so much that this organization exists and continues to provide so much joy in the lives of kids and their families.”