When she’s not studying or playing with her siblings, you can find her in the kitchen mixing up something sweet.

However, Monica’s life completely changed when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder a few years ago. Spending time with her family, honing her cooking skills, completing her schoolwork and hanging out with her friends was draining and difficult, especially amid so many doctor’s appointments.

Monica was referred to Make-A-Wish and began to dream about what she wanted to wish for. She ultimately decided that an update to her kitchen would be the perfect wish. This wish would help her get back to what she loves the most, cooking in the kitchen and spending time her family and friends while having them enjoy her creations!

“I couldn’t believe it was actually happening,” Monica said as the the delivery notifications for her new refrigerator, stove, pots, pans and bakeware rolled into her email inbox.

The wish brought hope and joy to Monica and her family. Her parents enjoy cooking in the new space, and they even received a new kitchen table perfect for nightly conversations over homecooked dinners.

Monica recently started college classes, but she spends as much time as she can in the kitchen baking treats for her friends and family. She’s even started selling some of her creations.

“I’ve been trying out new things! So far, I’ve made the famous chocolate flan cake in a heart shape for my dad, and it came out so good! I’ve made a bunch—and I mean a bunch— of oatmeal cookies and I’ve made banana loaf bread. It was delicious!” she shared.

Kilby, one of Monica’s wish granters, loved getting to know Monica and helping make her wish come true.

“This wish was so meaningful to Monica and will be for years to come. It’s given her an avenue to pursue something she is passionate about and interested in. She has the resources to learn and grow and do something she would not have been able to do otherwise,” she said. “Monica can pursue her hobby every day because of this wish—and that is life-changing. You could see that on her face and her family’s face.”

We’re so thankful for Monica and everyone that helped make her wish come true!

Want to help grant wishes like Monica’s? Visit ntx.wish.org to make a donation or sign up to volunteer.