How are you connected to Make-A-Wish?
My younger cousin, Jim, was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2018 at just 14 years old. He had just graduated from 8th grade and was entering his freshman year of high school.
I am happy to share, Jim graduated from Arizona State University in May of 2026 with a degree in Financial Planning. The doctors at Stanford declared him cured in January of 2019 with continued checkups, all with positive results. I am so proud of him and all that he has accomplished.
When did Make-A-Wish become part of your life or your family’s story?
My cousin received his wish in 2019, a year after his diagnosis. My cousin loves video games and technology. His wish was for a hand build personal computer from Corsair that had not been released to the market yet. The wish for my cousin brought our family a sense of hope, joy, and comfort, knowing he had something to look forward to.
What did the Make-A-Wish experience mean to you or your family?
For me, it provided a sense of comfort knowing that my cousin had something to look forward to. After his diagnosis, the treatments, doctor’s appointments, a new school, Jim was able to know he could come home and work on his computer or game with friends. That brought a sense of peace.
Was there a particular moment from the experience that stands out most to you?
The entire journey felt so surreal to me as his big cousin. I am close with my family and to know not only was he suffering, but that my aunt and uncle and his siblings were hurting and worried put everything into perspective. I just remember thinking why and how and that he was so young.
How did family, friends, or the community support you during this journey?
How did family, friends, or the community support you during this journey?It is incredible to see how my cousin’s friends and the community came together to support him, my aunt, uncle, and cousins. Jim s a warrior, and he had a tribe supporting him every step of his journey. My aunt rallied a team to participate in a Light the Night walk in SF, benefitting and raising awareness for Hodgkins Lymphoma. I was able to donate my hair in honor of him, there was a Facebook partnership, and we wore Jim Strong merch.
What does it mean to you that SJVC/Carrington College supports this foundation?
It means a great deal to me that SJVC/Carrington College is involved with the Make-A-Wish foundation. I believe in giving back and this is one way we can do it. When I was asked to lead the Make-A-Wish campaign across our organizations, I immediately thought of my cousin and how Make-A-Wish impacted my family during a trying time. I can only hope to give back and provide the same sense of comfort for another wish kid and family in need of hope.
What would you want others to understand about the importance of organizations like Make-A-Wish?
Make-A-Wish provides hope for children with illnesses. Wish kids are children that should be having fun and being able to be kids. They should be looking forward to their freshmen year of high school and all that comes with being a child, not the stress of all that comes with their diagnosis.
What would you say to someone considering donating or participating in this campaign?
I would say that every dollar counts. Even by participating by sharing a post or spreading awareness, we can make a difference in children’s lives. By coming together as a community, we can make a difference.
How has this experience stayed with you over time?
I had the honor of attending a Make-A-Wish gala in Frenso, CA and hearing the stories of other children brought up the emotions I had when I first heard of my cousin having cancer. Knowing these wishes brings hope to families will always stick with me.
In what ways has it inspired you personally or professionally?
Make-A-Wish has inspired me both personally and professionally. I have a newfound appreciation for our healthcare workers. Especially those who work with children and have to see kids with critical illnesses every day. I am proud to not only be a part of an organization that trains these healthcare providers but also is actively engaged in giving back to those in need.
Looking back, what’s the most meaningful lesson you’ve taken from this experience?
The power of support and coming together. This really makes a difference in times of need. I have also learned that if you cannot donate, you can listen, be present and to be kind. You never know what people are going through.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or message to our campus community?
I’d like to thank the Perry family and our senior leaders for supporting and encouraging our institution to participate and bring awareness to such an amazing organization. It has been an honor to see us come together across all campuses. I am looking forward to seeing what we accomplish this year!
