Jorge is a passionate young man who has stayed strong through medical treatments, doctor’s appointments and the pressures of going to high school all at the same time. After being diagnosed with leukemia in 2012, he started thinking about the importance of life, family and his priorities for the future. He always described himself as a “kick back and chill” type of guy, but he knew that he needed to dream big when Make-A-Wish came to grant his most heart-felt wish.

Jorge wished for financial aid to go to college and has a lot to look forward to. With the help of Make-A-Wish, he will be attending Norco College and can’t wait to get started with the next chapter that lies ahead.

“I feel like this could really change my life in a big way,” Jorge said. “If I can get an education I can get a good job.”

He will not only be the first in his family to have graduated high school, but he will also be the first to go to college. His grandmother Zeferina, who raised him since he was little, always stressed how important education is and was so proud of his decision. Before he was diagnosed, he worked in retail and tried to save up as much money as possible, but he became so busy with treatments that he could no longer work a job.

“I don’t think I would have the motivation to go to college without this opportunity,” Jorge said.

Not only will this open many doors, but he will also be mentored by staff members at Norco College to help him explore every possible interest he may have. Jorge had always been optimistic through treatments and sees this as chance to leave his illness behind and start working toward the successful career he’s always wanted.

Jorge is so happy to be making his grandmother proud and plans to learn as much as he can. He is very interested in the possibility of becoming an electrical technician and he can’t wait to see what the future holds!