The Joy of a Good Surprise: How Alex Gives Back

Alex was just 11 years old when she learned her wish would be granted—but she didn’t believe she deserved it. Growing up with multiple congenital heart defects, she thought her daily challenges were simply “normal.” Her instinct was to give her wish to someone else.

“I Didn’t Think I Needed a Wish”

Alex was 11 when she learned her wish would be granted. A thoughtful, friendly girl who cared deeply about her community, she wanted to give her wish to someone else. Alex thought the hardships she experienced due to her congenital heart disease were simply a normal part of her life. “I truly didn’t feel like I needed the wish,” she says, “but everyone told me, ‘No, this is for you!’”Eventually, Alex chose her one true wish: to go to Disney World with her family.

A Life Built Around Strength—And Loneliness

Alex was born with multiple heart defects. She had her first heart surgery at three days old, her second at three years old, and her third when she was 11. Because of her condition, Alex experienced long stretches of isolation and loneliness. Her classmates often made her feel different for being in and out of hospitals and for having scars. “I was so sad before my wish. I felt so alone, because this is my reality, but to everyone else, it’s weird.”

A Wish That Changed Everything

Alex’s trip to Disney showed her that she was part of a worldwide community. At Give Kids The World Village, she met other kids with critical illnesses she could relate to—and volunteers and staff who truly saw and celebrated her. They told her, “It’s cool that you’re able to be strong and keep going.” Hearing that helped Alex start telling herself, “Yeah, it is cool!” She reflects, “Having that support system and what feels like a family is so nice.”

From Wish Kid to Wishmaker

After her wish trip, Alex knew she wanted to stay involved with Make-A-Wish. Eight years later, she speaks and volunteers at events where she can meet wish kids and encourage them through their journeys. She is now part of the Wishmakers’ Circle, working alongside her mom and fiancé to fundraise the cost of a future wish.

Creating Joy for the Next Generation of Wish Kids

Alex gives back because she remembers how the Make-A-Wish community brought her joy and confidence. “It was so nice to have people who knew what it was like. Now I see kids and tell them, ‘You got this!’ I get so excited now, meeting kids and hearing their wishes.”

She joined the Wishmakers’ Circle because, as she says, “I see the impact, and I felt it.” Wish kids like Alex face the unknown and so many difficult surprises—but when their wish is granted, “they get another surprise. But it’s a good surprise, finally.” Now, Alex is making sure more kids experience the joy of a good surprise, just like she did years ago.

Learn how you can join become a Wishmaker at: https://secure2.wish.org/site/TR?fr_id=7095&pg=entry