Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.
Calgarians came together on Sunday to help grant wishes to children who are fighting against all odds. Teams from four energy companies competed in the 2nd annual ‘Pull For Wishes’ fundraising event for Make-A-Wish Canada.
They raised more than $140,000.
Simona Lupas, director of the southern Alberta chapter of Make-A-Wish, said the money will go a long way to help children experiencing critical illnesses.
“We say the symbolic value of a wish is about $10,000,” he explained. “So we’re definitely granting 14-15 wishes with these funds, which is huge for southern Alberta.”
Get the latest national news
For news affecting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts sent directly to you as they happen.
Several children were celebrated on Sunday, including Sloane Masikewich who was diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma in May 2023. Thanks to the support of Albertans, her wish was granted at the event.
Claire Masikewich’s mother says while Sloane continues to fight, this is not the end.
“I think a lot of people have a misconception of what (getting his wish) means – thinking it’s a last wish. So it was very emotional,” Masikewich said. “Throughout this process, we’ve come to realize that Make-A-Wish is about lasting memories and lasting wishes.”
Sloane’s wish is a family trip to Disney to see Animal Kingdom. Revealing Sunday was an early birthday present for her – she turns seven on Monday.
Her mother said Sloane’s cancer diagnosis fueled the family’s desire to support others who are also fighting. Earlier this year, the family raised money for pediatric cancer research.
“We just received our status as a charitable organization at the end of August,” explained Masikewich. “So the organization ‘Strong Like Sloane’ is officially a charitable organization in the province of Alberta.”
So far in 2024, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted more than 130 wishes across southern Alberta.
& copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
(Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
source link https://globalnews.ca/news/10768965/calgary-pull-for-wishes-2024-fundraiser/
