Wish Ball 2021 at Revel Fulton Market

A look back at
Wish Ball 2021

An extraordinary year called for an extraordinary approach to our largest annual fundraiser. For the first time we were able to invite supporters and wish families from across the state to join in this incredible evening, some at more than a dozen organized watch parties. 

This incredbile night included wish child co-emcee Gavin and our creative director Amie Milano, stepping in for Bonnie Hunt, who was called away to tend to a family emergency. It was a pleasure to have wish alums Lizzy, Azka, Norah, and Cole join in the program. 

During the program we heard the story of Chris Greicius, the child who inspired the Make-A-Wish movement, from his mother Linda Pauling. Linda shared how Chris’ wish lifted his spirits and energy as he battled leukemia. 

The evening ended on a high note as our headlining entertainer Steve Martin joined in a playful question and answer with Lizzy, Norah and Azka. And, everyone was delighted when Steve joined Cole for a banjo duet to close out the program.
 

Linda and Chris
During the program at Wish Ball 2021, guests heard the story of Chris Greicius, the child who inspired the Make-A-Wish movement, from his mother Linda Pauling. Linda shared how Chris’ wish lifted his spirits and energy as he battled leukemia, and how after his passing, she and those who arranged for his happiest days felt compelled to make sure that every child who was sick like Chris could have the same experience, and Make-A-Wish was born. In recognition of Chris and his mother’s Illinois roots, and their fellow public safety officers, the Illinois State Police shared its appreciation to Make-A-Wish and named Chris an Illinois State Police Junior Trooper, providing Linda with an ISP uniform in honor of her son and his impact in Illinois and beyond

Wish Ball 2021

Donations for Wish Ball open through July 31.

Snapshots of Wish Ball  2021.

Thank you to our Wish Ball sponsors!