I wish to have my TV show presented to Netflix
Edge
18
cancer
Edge's Wish
16-year-old Edge’s life changed dramatically in the blink of an eye. He was living his normal routine—attending track practice and school. Then, in December 2022, just before his 17th birthday, everything changed. He had been experiencing minor discomfort in his knee for a couple of months, but a sudden sharp pain during track practice led to a diagnosis he never saw coming: osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.
The road ahead would be long. Edge went from being a regular high school student to spending countless hours in the hospital undergoing chemotherapy and major limb-saving surgery to remove a tumor.
"I didn’t know what to think it was so unexpected. One day, I’m at track practice, and suddenly I’m in the hospital getting chemotherapy and surgery. Everything changed so fast.”
The sudden shift in Edge's life was overwhelming, leaving him feeling isolated. Everything changed when he learned he was eligible for Make-A-Wish. This opportunity sparked a light at the end of the tunnel. As he contemplated what his wish should be, his deep passion for storytelling, particularly through film, came to mind. With encouragement from his mom, Edge realized that his wish could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take the first step toward his dreams. He decided to pitch his own animated series to Netflix.
“I’ve always loved film, especially animation, and I wanted to use my wish to explore that,” Edge said. “So I decided to pitch an idea I’d been working on for years—a series called Elijah and Luna.”
From that moment on, Edge embraced the importance of strength and patience. It wasn’t just about meeting his favorite film professionals; it was about shaping his future and channeling his creative energy into something meaningful while navigating the challenges of cancer.
In May 2024, after months of planning, Edge’s wish came true. He and his family flew to Los Angeles for a day at Netflix.
“I’ve never been to California before; it felt like multiple wishes in one. I was suddenly in LA, the center of the film world. It felt like everything I’d dreamed about was right there,” Edge said with a grin.
Over the next few days, Edge received the ultimate VIP treatment. He pitched his series, Elijah and Luna, to the head of scripted series. Edge's experience was unforgettable. He began with breakfast at Netflix’s 13-story headquarters, enjoying rooftop views of the Hollywood sign.
Peter Friedlander, head of scripted series, reviewed his 20-page pitch deck for the animated series, praising its “complex but easy-to-connect-with” concept and providing valuable feedback. Lunch followed at In-N-Out Burger, and he toured iconic sets before concluding the day at a red-carpet premiere for a new Netflix series, mingling with stars and industry professionals.
This wish was more than just a fun day in Los Angeles for Edge; it was a transformative experience that validated his dreams and showcased his creative potential. “The feedback was incredible, and it pushed me to be an even better storyteller,” Edge said.
Now a freshman at Temple University studying Film and Media Arts, Edge reflects on his journey: "My wish didn’t just end when I left LA. It’s something that’s stayed with me, inspiring me every day. I know now that what I’m working toward is possible and that my work will eventually come to life."