In 2019, Makenzie’s heart suddenly stopped. After eight hours of fighting, her medical team brought her back, but they quickly realized the lack of blood flow caused extensive damage to her nerves, hands and feet. Makenzie woke up without the ability to walk and has been unable to walk again since. 

But support from people like you brought hope to Makenzie when it felt like her world was closing in on her.  

A huge part of Makenzie’s life before diagnosis was spending time with her family. Together, they loved to hike and explore. “We went through a grieving process and thought enjoying the outdoors was something we just couldn't do anymore,” said Malissa.  

After seven months in the hospital, the COVID-19 pandemic emergence and a long road to recovery, Makenzie was offered the life-changing gift of a wish. 

The moment Makenzie discovered what an all-terrain wheelchair was, she knew this was her wish. These specialized wheelchairs have tracks, a motor and can go through water, sand and grass. An all-terrain wheelchair allows Makenzie to go anywhere, including hiking with her family – something they thought they’d never do again.  

After her wish was granted, Makenzie took a special family trip to the beach. For the first time since getting sick, she was able to play with her brother and cousins on the sand and hike with the whole family up to a lighthouse. Because of you, Makenzie’s life is now filled with exciting possibilities instead of limitations.  

“It was just so cool watching her, she was grinning ear to ear,” said Malissa. 

The moment a child learns their most heartfelt wish will be granted is an important turning point. It inspires strength, hope and transformation in the midst of critical illnesses. Children just like Makenzie begin to look beyond the difficulties they face and instead look toward the future with optimism and joy.  

“Wishes are important because they open up kids’ eyes to the possibilities and give them a chance to dream. When so many things are taken from them, when they are sick, it gives them that opportunity to dream again,” Malissa said.  

Please, help us create endless moments of joy for kids like Makenzie today. 

Special thanks to: Bungie Foundation, Elf Prep Academy, PNW Trackchair, Ribbons & Bows volunteer Noelle Norton, and wish-granting volunteers Michelle Caulder and Jordan Pennington.