Our incredible volunteer, Grisell, has been part of Make-A-Wish for several years, inspired by her own family's wish experience. “Being able to experience the magic of what a wish can do for a family... and how it can help the entire family heal... is really magical.”

One of her most touching moments as a volunteer was when a young boy with a deep love for Winnie the Pooh had his wish granted to visit Disneyland’s Hundred Acre Woods. This child found comfort in the Pooh-shaped trees he saw during hospital visits, turning his fear of medical appointments into something positive. “Seeing his face light up the entire time was totally worth it,” she recalls, adding that his excitement about his Pooh-themed gifts left her feeling like a small part of something much bigger than herself.

Her faith and desire to give back keep her motivated. “I love helping people. It’s very fulfilling and humbling.” To those considering volunteering, she encourages, “Do it. You have nothing to lose, and you never know the impact you can have on a child or their family.”

Grisell concludes by sharing a deeply personal moment: after the passing of a wish child, the father reached out to thank her for the lasting impact the wish had on their family, a reminder of the profound influence a girl can have. Her dedication to Make-A-Wish is a beautiful testament to the power of kindness, compassion, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

 Thank you, Grisell, for all that you do for our wish kids and their families.

To learn more about how you can join Grisell as a Make-A-Wish volunteer, click here.