Inspiration

As a true testament to changing lives, Amazing Journeys has partnered with Make-A-Wish for six years helping–along with the generosity of our passengers–to provide a wish to a sick child. Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation traces its beginning to one boy’s wish. In 1980, 7-year-old Chris Greicius was being treated for leukemia. Every day, he dreamed of becoming a police officer. U.S. Customs Officer Tommy Austin had befriended Chris and his mother and promised Chris a ride in a police helicopter. When Chris’ health worsened, Austin contacted an Arizona Public Safety officer, and planned a day that would lift Chris’ spirits. The day included a tour of the city in a department helicopter, a swearing in as the first honorary DPS patrolman in state history, a presentation of the official uniform, and a motorcycle proficiency test so he could earn wings to pin on his uniform. On May 3, 1980 Chris passed away, but not before seeing his dream come true and experiencing the hope, strength and joy that came from receiving his wish.

Last week, my friend Lisa shared with me a truly amazing, yet tear jerking experience. Lisa is a nurse in Boston who works in a ward with terminal children. She is a hero in so many ways by virtue of the work she does on a daily basis, but what she did for a very special 17 year old patient who was dying with Cystic Fibrosis took heroism to a new level. With time running out, Lisa poked and prodded her way through a very difficult maze of heirarchy to reach the heart of Ellen Degeneres; this young girl’s idol. Too sick to get on a plane and visit The Ellen Show as Make-A-Wish would have sponsored, Ellen herself called the hospital directly and spoke with this young patient lifting her spirits and fulfilling a lifelong dream. Ellen even gave the young girl her personal cell phone number if she ever wanted to call and say hello..and followed it all up with a care-package full of t-shirts, CDs, books and a personally written note . Ellen finished the note by saying “…you’re my hero. Love, Ellen”.

Lisa’s efforts to help this girl’s dream come true was such an amazing feat and I feel honored to know such a wonderful person. Sadly, the young girl lost her battle a few days later but not after touching the hearts of so many people..and having her own heart touched by a very special celebrity.

Whether you support the Make-A-Wish Foundation, volunteer your services to help a sick child, hold the door open for man in a wheelchair or just smile at a senior citizen, the ability to touch the lives of another human being is within all of our reaches. Don’t underestimate your ability to be an inspiration.