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Zachary Meets the Tigers!
Zachary could not believe his eyes when his limo dropped him off at Comerica Park for his Tigers Wish Experience. There, waiting on the field for him was his favorite player, Justin Verlander! Zachary and his brother were able to watch up close and personal as the Tigers had batting practice before the big game. They had the opportunity to explore the baseball field and interact with many of the wonderful athletes. After chatting with a few other Tigers, Zachary and his family headed to their seats which were located directly behind the Tigers dugout. He and his family spent the beautiful summer day watching the game, and taking in every moment of it. Throughout the day, Zachary enjoyed all of the usual baseball snacks, and stretched while the whole stadium sang Take Me Out To The Ball Game during the 7th inning. After the fun-filled Tigers Experience, Zachary’s limo was waiting for him to take him back home in style. Zachary may just be the Tigers BIGGEST fan!
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Andrea Visits Alaska
When we asked Andrea what her wish was, she did not hesitate one moment before smiling and stating that she wanted to go to the beautiful state of Alaska! She had always dreamed of visiting of Alaska, and she had even more reason to go there since the doctor that had previously been treating her had relocated there recently. Once we made contact with the doctor, he was thrilled to have the opportunity to be the personal tour guide for Andrea and her family. Upon arriving in Alaska, the doctor met Andrea and her family and got them acquainted with the city. During her stay, she was able to participate in so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a whale-watching cruise, a glacier excursion and a trip to the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation to see a real, live moose! Andrea could not believe her eyes as she took in the majestic views that Alaska had to offer. She was so thrilled to be able to have her wish come true, and she captured all of her magical memories in photographs to keep with her forever.
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Elysiana's big splash!
Elysiana loves the water! Therefore, it was no surprise that when asked, she wished for her very own pool! We began planning Elysiana’s personalized pool wish right away. The summer was already in full bloom, and there was no time to waste! The process began very quickly, and before she knew it, the construction was under way. The team of “pool installers” came together and created the most magnificent pool, including a heater for those chilly nights. The city that Elysiana lives in, Wyandotte, decided that they wanted to get involved in her wish as well. It was quite a treat when the Wyandotte fire department, led by the Mayor himself, arrived to fill the pool with water! The Mayor also gave Elysiana some special toys to use in her pool. When the pool was up and ready to go, Elysiana invited her entire family over to have her very first pool party with her!
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Angelica's Shopping Spree!
Angelicia was completely thrilled to find out that she was going to get a wish. She took her time and thought about what she wanted until she realized that the decision was very easy. One of her favorite things to do is shop, so what could be more fitting that her own Shopping Spree? It was a beautiful summer day in August when Angelicia’s limo came to pick her and her family up to hit the stores. She went to all of her favorite places at Fairlane Mall, and even took a few minutes to enjoy lunch. She spent the next five hours buying beautiful new clothes, electronics and so much more! Angelicia even saved a little bit of her shopping spree gift certificates to spend on a rainy day! She is certainly looking forward to the next rainy day!
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Casey Visit's Anime Convention!
As far as seventeen year old’s go, Casey is quite an incredible one. And with that, comes quite an incredible wish request! Casey is a complete anime fan, and we were thrilled to find out that her wish was to travel to Baltimore to attend the Otakon Anime Convention. Casey, her friend and parents, began their travels with a limo driving them to the airport for their flight. When they arrived, they headed straight for the anime headquarters at the hotel and checked in there to get their convention credentials. Then it was time to unpack, and put on the anime attire. Casey’s character of choice to dress up as was Cosplay. Casey was ready to hit the convention in style! She was given special assistance by the conference director to eliminate any potential long lines for any of the attractions that she wanted to attend. According to Casey’s mom, “she was non-stop bubbly the entire time which was truly amazing for us to see!”
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Riley goes to Disney!
Riley could not believe that it was finally time for the limo to pick her and her family up. Her wish to go to Disney World and meet the princesses was coming true, and she was just thrilled! When Riley and her family arrived in Orlando, they received their rental car and continued on to their condo at Give Kids The World (www.gktw.com) Once they settled in, they were given tickets to all seven local theme parks, and they were on their way! The first stop, of course, was to visit with Ariel, her new friend and mermaid! They spent some time together and took many photos. As the trip continued, Riley and her family were able to see animated parades with all of the magical Disney characters, watch beautiful fireworks displays throughout all of the parks, and enjoy spending some wonderful time together as a family. The trip may be over, but their memories will live on forever.
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Tyler
Fourteen year old Tyler has had to adjust his natural love of sports to accommodate the rare blood disease that has been a part of his life since birth. He is unable to participate in any contact sports so Tyler golf is his sport of choice. He loves the game and practices every chance he gets. When Tyler was referred to The Rainbow Connection for his wish, he knew just what he wanted...to play golf at Hilton Head’s breath-taking Harbour Town Golf Course, where the professionals play!
See Tyler pictured here with his eighteen caddies! Yes, the caddies were so excited to be part of Tyler’s wish that, at each hole, Tyler was assigned a different caddie to guide him and cheer him on. He was asked to sign autographs and smile for many photos along the way. It was a dream come true!
Tyler and his family also dined at the world famous Paula Deen’s famous restaurant, The Lady and Sons, in Savannah, Georgia. “My son could not have been happier,” beamed Tyler’s mother. “Golf and food, those are his favorite things! Thank you Rainbow Connection. We will remember this always”
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Shopping At The Mall of America
Just like most fourteen year old girls, Eboni from Redford has a love for fashion and shopping. It was no surprise that for her wish Eboni decided to go on a shopping spree to The Mall of America in Minnesota. Although the size of the mall might have been intimidating, Eboni made sure she experienced all that it has to offer from rollercoaster rides to unique restaurants and all of her favorite shops.
She was so excited to get away from the worries at home and spend time doing what she loves the most, shopping!. When she needed a break from the mall, Eboni and her family spent time swimming at the water park in their hotel. “It was wonderful seeing her so full of excitement” explains Mom, Christine, “This was truly a trip Eboni and the whole family will always remember”.
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It’s a Dog’s Life Kind of Wish
Kesha had only one thing on her mind when she was thinking about a wish, and that was an unconditional companion. Kesha decided that for her wish she wanted a Paws for A Cause Dog to be by her side.
As soon as she made her decision, plans were underway to partner with Paws for A Cause in order to make her wish come true. A dog was chosen, extensive months of training began, and Kesha waited patiently for her furry friend to arrive.
When Kesha and her new companion met for the first time, it was an instant connection! She and her new friend have been inseparable ever since! Kesha’s dog provides her the incredible assistance that she needs, as well as many sloppy doggie kisses!
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Puppy Restores Smile for Local Boy!
6 ˝ year old Giovan from Detroit received good news on Tuesday, and he certainly needed it. Recently, Giovan was told that his cancer had returned. He had previously been in remission. His parents were so thrilled that they bought him a beautiful Beagle puppy to play with. Shortly thereafter the doctors discovered that his cancer had returned, and then his puppy was stolen from their yard. Giovan was devastated. His cancer was back, and his puppy was gone.
When Social Workers at Children’s Hospital contacted The Rainbow Connection about the very sad situation, phonecalls were made immediately in order to bring back some sunshine in Giovan’s life. He received his wish to Disney World last year, and has been going through so much since then. Within days, from the help of many individuals within the community, Giovan was given a brand new 6 week old Beagle puppy, doggie toys and bedding, as well as 50 lbs. of Puppy Chow! “The smile on Giovan’s face when he reached out to hold his new puppy was absolutely incredible,” explains Ingrid Todt, Wish Director for The Rainbow Connection. “This is what The Rainbow Connection is all about.”
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Jodie Welcomes Home a New Friend!
Jodie had photos of “Charley”, her Yorkshire terrier puppy to share with friends and family as she waited for Charley to get old enough to leave his mom and join Jodie in his new home. Jodie had a shopping spree at the local pet supply store compliments of The Rainbow Connection so she would be ready for Charley’s arrival. After many difficult fashion decisions Jodie decided on a soft fluffy bed, food bowls, carrier and lots of other fun toys for her Charley.
When the special day arrived Jodie was so excited to meet Charley. There was an instant bond between them for sure and Jodie looks forward to the many happy times ahead with her new puppy.
Jodie has been through a lot since her diagnosis of Osteosarcoma earlier this year. Following the amputation of her leg at the knee, Jodie is looking forward to walking again and doctors are optimistic that Jodie is on the mend. Learning to use her prosthetic leg is particularly important because Jodie is welcoming 9 week old Yorkshire terrier puppy “Charley” into the family. Jodie figures she and Charley can give each other the comfort and cuddles she needs. Charley has a very important job ahead of him, but he is well on his way to filling Jodie’s days with the sunshine and comfort that she needs.
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Brandon’s Dream Comes True!
Imagine riding through the woods on your very own four wheeler, feeling the wind in your face and sure that you must certainly be flying! Ten year old Brandon loves the feeling of riding his new four wheeler. Sometimes it is hard for Brandon to get around due to his illness but not so much anymore! He loves being outside, playing with his friends and riding on his dream mobile four wheeler!
On behalf of Brandon and The Rainbow Connection we thank all of you for making his dream come true!
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Payton meets Mickey Mouse
11 year old Payton’s wish was to travel to Disney World with her family for a week, and that is exactly what happened! She had been dreaming of going to Disney for as long as she could remember!
Payton and her family went to Disney World in October, 2008. They were able to stay at the magical Give Kids The World (www.gktw.org) Village where they received their own condo, rental car and tickets to all local (7) theme parks, including The Magic Kingdom.
While on her magical wish, Payton and her family had the opportunity to forget about all of the doctors appointments, hospital visits and treatment plans. They were able to focus on having fun, enjoying the sunshine, and eating ice cream all day long! While Payton was in Florida, she even entered the Give Kids The World karaoke contest and sang in front of everyone on stage!
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4 year old Fatima just loves all princesses!
In fact while waiting for her magical trip to have tea with the princesses at magical Disney World arranged by The Rainbow Connection, Fatima was just aching to see the spectacular Disney Princesses on Ice show at The Palace of Auburn Hills. This was trickier than you might think as Fatima’s doctors advised her family that Fatima’s immune system was just not strong enough for her to be in a public place surrounded by people. When The Rainbow Connection found out that Fatima wanted to go and that, in fact, Fatima carried a newspaper ad for the show in her little pink purse she carries everywhere we went to work! With permission from her doctor Fatima was allowed to go to the show if she got there before all the other people and if she was seated in a private suite with her family. The Palace of Auburn Hills donated a suite just for Fatima and Fatima had the greatest time! The Rainbow Connection had full princess wear waiting for Fatima when she arrived and, with help from the Palace, a princess came up to the suite for a special visit! It was pure magic and the experience helped Fatima as she looked forward to building her strength up for her big trip to Disney.
Finally the day arrived to go and the limousine pulled into the driveway to take the entire family off to Florida. Fatima and her family stayed a the incredible “Give Kids The World” Village where the ice cream parlor is always open and room service is available 24 hours! Fatima had full access to all seven Disney parks and never waited in line. Still, the highlight of her trip was being dressed up as a princess throughout her entire visit and meeting all the magical princesses that live at Disney World!
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1985- The Very First Wish!
Fourteen year old John Bowden did not have much hope left as he lay at Children’s Hospital in July of 1985. The doctors had done what they could but John’s young body was no longer able to fight the cancer that had invaded his life and changed him from a carefree boy with a love of all sports to a young man fighting every day just to stay alive. Still, John had a dream. He wanted to meet Muhammad Ali.
With the help of The Rainbow Connection John’s wish came true. The smile and autograph from the champion brightened the day for John and an entire ward of children at Children Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. Ali did a bit of shadowboxing with John and sat down to talk boxing. It was certainly a magical time for John who never dreamed he would be shooting the breeze with his hero! As Ali, left, giving big thumbs up, John beamed with the joy of having a dream come true. Sadly, John Bowden lost his fight to cancer just weeks after his visit with Ali.
We at The Rainbow Connection look back to the magic of that first wish and the memory of John Bowden and vow to make dreams come true for every Michigan child stricken with a life threatening illness. With help from the committed volunteer Board of Directors, the many volunteers and the support of people throughout the state of Michigan The Rainbow Connection marches on and has granted over 1700 wishes since that first wish in 1985.
From something as simple as a computer, a bedroom makeover or as unique as meeting the President of the United States at The White House or a glorious trip to Disney World, with individual and corporate support we have fulfilled over 100 wishes each year.
Since that first wish services have been expanded provide several special programs for our wish kids and their families. Through our Scholarship Program we offer two $1,000 scholarships each year for wish children taking college classes. Our Special Response Program assists families with financial difficulties brought on by expenses of having a child with a catastrophic illness, such as rent, utilities and funeral expenses. The Wish Enhancement Program provides fun times for these children and their families through summer picnics, a Holiday Party, and tickets to attend area theatres, concerts and sporting events.
Thank you to all our supporters for making dreams comes true for these brave children
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Brennan goes to The All Star Game
As millions watched the many festivities of the NBA All Star Game from home, Brennan experienced it in a way he will never forget. Brennan experienced the exciting events of The NBA All Star weekend in Phoenix, Arizona where all the events took place.
A sophomore at Central Michigan, Brennan was given a wish from The Rainbow Connection after being diagnosed with Leukemia. Brennan, along with his parents and best friend Kendall attended The NBA All Star Game up close and personal at The US Airways Center in Phoenix. Along with the excitement of the game, Brennan and Kendall got to watch the famous slam dunk contest, where they watched their favorite NBA players display their incredible skills.
Brennan had been looking forward to this weekend for months. It was a special time for him, his parents and his childhood friend Kendall to get away for the weekend to watch the exhilarating events of The NBA All Star Game. Brennan had an unforgettable time, and is “so grateful to all those who helped make my wish come true”.
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Matthew Enjoys A Taste of Tropical Life
Matthew did not take long at all to decide that for his wish he wanted to travel with his family to beautiful Maui, Hawaii for a relaxing, tropical vacation. In August, 2008, Matthew and his family began their journey, and created some incredible memories along the way!
Upon their arrival in Maui, they were welcomed with a traditional Hawaiin custom and received a lei greeting. Matthew and his family were then swept away to their luxurious accommodations at The Ka’anapali Beach Hotel, located on the world renowned Ka'anapali Beach. They participated in an exciting snorkeling and island tour, went to various parks, and toured the island.
Matthew was able to sit on the beach and run through the water without a care, while spending time with his family. Matthew and his family were able to take a break from reality and enjoy the tropical life while away on his wish! Aloha, Matthew!
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A wish from out of this world comes true!
Everyone who knows Brandon knows he LOVES video games. When he was interviewed for his Rainbow Connection wish, Brandon did not hesitate to express that he wanted to meet the creators of his favorite video game, HALO. It took some help from friends of The Rainbow Connection but a tour was set and Brandon was on his way!
Brandon and his mother traveled to Seattle for an exclusive tour of Bungie Studios as well as Microsoft Studios. He met and had lunch with the creators of Halo and asked them all the questions he had been writing down. Brandon was also showered with all kinds of special gifts, including 11 new video games to enjoy! Of course the whole experience was topped with a special session where Brandon played his favorite games on a movie theater size screen!
Brandon says it was “amazing”. His mom tells us the magic of the experience at Bungie and Microsoft will stay with them both forever!
Brandon dreams of going to college and creating video games himself. The Rainbow Connection is honored to make Brandon’s wish come true. We look forward to hearing from Brandon over the years as he becomes a famous video game creator!
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Jessica goes on a shopping spree
Jessica from Northville recently had the day of her life as she went on an unforgettable shopping spree to her favorite mall. Jessica had been in the hospital for months when The Rainbow Connection met her in her hospital room at Mott Children’s hospital in Ann Arbor. She knew she wanted a shopping spree and patiently waited for the Doctors to let her go home so her dream could come true. After her tests and treatments were complete, Jessica was set to go home and plans for made for her long awaited shopping spree. Soon a stretched limo pulled up to her home and took her and her family to her favorite stores. Jessica couldn’t stop smiling as she bought everything a teenage girl could dream of. It was a remarkable day that gave Jessica the joy she truly deserved.
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Garrett Becomes a Broadway Star
Garrett’s wish was certainly unique and exciting. There was only one thing that this 15 year old wanted to do, and that was to be on Broadway! He has always had a passion for the theater as well as Broadway Shows. Garrett very first Broadway Show he saw was the Lion King and he has been hooked ever since.
Garrett’s wish came true in August, 2008 when he flew to New York to participate in the Broadway Show, RENT! Not only was Brandon allowed on stage, but he was given a speaking and singing part!
“My husband and I were in tears watching our son on stage,” Garrett’s mom told The Rainbow Connection. “It was certainly an experience that he will NEVER forget!” Garrett was able to participate in the show just one week before RENT closed its doors. He was thrilled about all of the wonderful people that he met while he was there, and all of the things that he was able to learn about backstage. We’ll be looking for Garrett again soon on Broadway!
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Natalie The Shopping Diva!
Natalie just loves to shop! Still, she has never gone shopping like the shopping spree dream she enjoyed compliments of The Rainbow Connection! The limousine picked her up at her house and brought her to the stores of her choice. The mall knew she was coming and arranged several special surprises just for Natalie. She was greeted at the door and escorted anywhere she wanted to go. Midday she had lunch at the restaurant of her choice and then back to the stores to shop some more! Natalie just loves music and spent some time in the music stores in addition to picking up some of the very latest fashions. 14 year old Natalie was so excited and says if she has to pick her favorite part it was her very first ride in a limousine!
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