When Kailey Hackbart imagined her future, cancer was never part of the plan. A competitive athlete who was accustomed to pushing through pain, Kailey knew something was different when persistent back pain and worsening symptoms began disrupting the life she loved. Eventually, doctors discovered a rare cancerous tumor. What followed was a difficult medical journey filled with surgery, unexpected complications, grueling hospital stays, and moments when even walking seemed out of reach. But in the middle of all of this, Make-A-Wish gave her something powerful to look toward to: a wish. After spending so much time confined to a hospital...

In this heartwarming episode of the World of Wishes Podcast, we speak with wish mom Melanie Coulter, who shares the remarkable story of her son Andrew, whose life changed forever after being diagnosed with a brainstem tumor at just 2 years old.

Melanie candidly recounts the frightening journey that followed Andrew's diagnosis, including a complex brain surgery, life-threatening complications, chemotherapy treatments, and years of rehabilitation. She reflects on the uncertainty, fear, and resilience that defined those early years, as well as the small victories that gave her family hope during some of their darkest moments.

Amid...

Our guest on the newest episode of World of Wishes is Michele King, Director of the Child Advocacy Program at Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida at Lee Health. Michele has spent her career supporting children and families through some of their most challenging moments, and she has also been one of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida's most passionate and dedicated advocates.

Michele shares a unique perspective from inside the medical community about the role wishes play in a child's treatment journey. We discuss how wishes create hope during difficult treatments, how they help heal and reunite families affected...

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of World of Wishes, we are honored to welcome Raymond Rodriguez Torres, wish dad, cancer research leader, and Co-Founder and Chairman of Live Like Bella—one of the most impactful pediatric cancer support organizations in the world.

Raymond shares the story of his daughter Bella, a Make-A-Wish kid whose life was marked by extraordinary courage, faith, and joy in the face of overwhelming adversity. After early developmental challenges, Bella was diagnosed at just four years old with aggressive rhabdomyosarcoma, cancer that had spread throughout her body and left her suddenly pa...

In this heartfelt episode of World of Wishes, we are joined by Abby Lindenberg, a devoted wish mom whose daughter Layla’s journey is defined by resilience, hope, and a powerful transformation from uncertainty to light.

Layla was diagnosed with an ultra‑rare genetic condition called alpha‑mannosidosis, a disorder that affects muscle strength, balance, hearing, cognition, and overall development. For years, Abby and her family navigated what she describes as a diagnostic “odyssey”—visiting more than a dozen specialists, sensing that something wasn’t right, yet struggling without answers. When the diagnosis finally came, it brought fear and anxie...

In this deeply moving episode of World of Wishes, we are honored to welcome Bryan DeCobo, a Wish Dad whose journey with Make‑A‑Wish has been shaped by love, loss, resilience, and extraordinary courage.

Bryan shares the story of his two sons, Ethan and Liam, who were both diagnosed with a rare, life‑shortening condition known as Coats Plus Syndrome. He opens up about the unimaginable reality of parenting two medically fragile children, the grief of losing Ethan at just four years old, and the determination that led his family to fight—not only for their own chil...

In this special episode of World of Wishes, we chat with Mikayla Beatty, a wish alum whose journey represents a historic milestone in Make A Wish history: Mikayla was the 150,000th wish ever granted by The Walt Disney Company.

Now a college sophomore studying theater, Mikayla reflects on her path from a creative, faith driven childhood to a life altering cancer diagnosis at just 13 years old. What began as a lingering cough quickly turned into a diagnosis of Stage IV Hodgkin’s lymphoma, launching her into an intense and fast moving treatment plan on the oncology floor—righ...

In this powerful episode of World of Wishes, we are joined by wish alum Aniyah Simmons - a vocalist, performer, and advocate whose story is filled with resilience, gratitude, and unforgettable music.

Aniyah grew up in a small town in North Carolina, discovering her love for singing in church and dreaming of a future on stage. As a teenager, her life changed when her mother noticed something wasn’t right and advocated for further testing—leading to a cervical cancer diagnosis. Aniyah opens up about the shock of hearing the word “cancer,” the intensity of treatment, and the mind...

In this episode of World of Wishes, we are joined by Tara Diaz, a devoted wish mom whose daughter Christina—a true warrior—experienced the wish of a lifetime: attending one of the biggest events in sports entertainment - Wrestlemania.

From the very beginning of her life, Christina faced medical challenges that no child should have to endure. As an infant and young child, she experienced repeated hospitalizations before being diagnosed with genetic pancreatitis at just four years old. What followed were years of painful flare ups, extended hospital stays, emergency admissions, and relentless uncertainty. Over time, Chri...

In this special episode, we chat down with Linda Pauling - Make‑A‑Wish co‑founder and the mother of Chris Greicius, the 7‑year‑old whose wish to be a police officer helped inspire the founding of Make‑A‑Wish. Linda shares the story with vivid detail and deep heart: how Chris became Arizona’s first and only honorary Department of Public Safety officer, and how that wish brought him pride, joy, and a renewed spark at the most difficult moment.

From there, Linda takes us behind the scenes of the earliest days—when a small group rolled up their sl...

For more than a decade, Jackie Parisi and her mother Mary Ann Platt have been turning hope into reality - one wish at a time. Together, they form a remarkable mother–daughter wish‑granting team whose shared passion has helped change the lives of more than 200 wish kids and their families across Southern Florida. In this episode of World of Wishes, they reflect on how volunteering with Make‑A‑Wish became a defining part of who they are, shaping their perspectives on family, gratitude, and what truly matters.

From backyard superhero celebrations to sensory‑safe bedrooms and unforgetta...

In this special episode of World of Wishes, we sit down with Norman Wedderburn, President and CEO of Make‑A‑Wish® Southern Florida, as he reflects on a 20‑year journey leading one of the organization’s most impactful chapters. Norm shares key moments from his tenure, the accomplishments that helped shape the chapter’s growth, and the values that have guided his leadership along the way—from expanding community partnerships to strengthening the organization’s ability to serve wish families.

The conversation also dives into what it truly takes to run a successful nonprofit: building strong teams, fostering colla...

In this episode, Zoo Miami legend and Make‑A‑Wish champion Ron Magill joins us for an unforgettable conversation about animals, empathy, and the transformative power of a wish.

Ron reflects on his 45‑year journey from zookeeper to global ambassador for wildlife, sharing how early encounters with animals shaped his life—and how those same connections now help wish kids momentarily escape illness and rediscover joy. From feeding giraffes and meeting cheetahs to reopening the zoo during COVID for a single wish child, Ron reveals the responsibility, emotion, and privilege behind each wish experience.

He explores...

In this episode, John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Pulmonary Hypertension Coordinator Shelly Screen shares why she considers a wish as essential as any medical protocol. With over two decades of experience, Shelly has referred hundreds of children - and witnessed firsthand how a wish can reduce stress, improve compliance, and bring families back together.

Hear stories of remarkable wishes: a teen who met Lionel Messi, a young artist who designed her dream “she shed,” and a Florida boy who saw snow for the first time. Shelly explains why timing matters, how anticipation lifts spirits, and why ever...

In this heart lifting episode, wish alumnus PJ Ragin shares how his 2019 wish turned into a full day of Hollywood magic on the set of Black-ish. From a limo pickup and welcome swag to watching scenes with the directors, recording a one take opening monologue, and dancing onto the living room set, PJ’s story is brimming with joyful surprises—like Anthony Anderson personally making him a tuna sandwich and Tracee Ellis Ross greeting his parents with a hug.

PJ reflects on facing cancer at 11, the support of his family and church, and why he now gives back...

In this episode of The World of Wishes Podcast we meet wish alumnus Lauren Potter. A top junior Olympian at 13, Lauren was a relentless competitor—until a rare, unnamed autoimmune disease left her gasping for breath. After months in Boston Children’s Hospital and six rounds of chemotherapy, she chose hope over fear. When her doctor recommended Make‑A‑Wish, Lauren celebrated her recovery with an active, adventurous wish: surfing her first wave on Waikiki Beach, ATV trails through Kualoa Ranch, ziplining across thousand‑foot valleys, and a sunset on the North Shore that felt like peace.

Years late...

In this episode of The World of Wishes Podcast, Julie Torsiello shares her family's inspiring journey through her daughter Gemma’s unexpected leukemia diagnosis just before her fifth birthday. Julie’s candid reflections offer listeners a glimpse into the emotional challenges and resilience that shaped their experience, painting a heartfelt portrait of Gemma—an energetic six-year-old with a deep love for animals whose wish for an adventure at Zoo Miami was granted in 2025. Gemma’s wish was a milestone moment, marking the 15,000th wish granted by Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

The episode highlights the anticipation and joy surrounding Gemma’s...

In episode 45 of “World of Wishes”, we chat with wish alum Courtney Priede, whose journey from chronic illness to a life-changing adventure will leave you inspired. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at just 12 years old, Courtney endured years of hospital stays, surgeries, and emotional challenges during some of the most formative years of her life. But through it all, she held onto hope—and when her doctor referred her to Make-A-Wish, Courtney dared to dream big.

Courtney shares how she wished for an unforgettable family trip to Australia, where she swam in the Great Barrier Reef, explored the Outbac...

In this inspiring episode of The World of Wishes, we sit down with Shareef Malnik - Board Chair Emeritus, Chairman of the Capital and Endowment Campaign, and the 20-year Chair of the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball. Shareef opens up about his deep-rooted connection to Make-A-Wish, describing the mission as part of his DNA. From leading one of the most iconic philanthropic events in South Florida to spearheading transformative campaigns, his journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership and enduring legacy.

Listeners will hear Shareef reflect on the people who’ve stood beside him - do...

In episode 42 of “World of Wishes”, we visit with Alex de Armas, longtime morning anchor on WSVN Channel 7 in Miami and a passionate Make-A-Wish Southern Florida ambassador, volunteer wish granter, and event host. Born and raised in Miami, Alex shares her deep connection to the community she serves both on and off the air.

For Alex, giving back isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a calling. “When you love it, there’s nothing stopping you,” she says, and that love shines through as she recounts the unforgettable moments she’s experienced while granting wishes to children with critical illn...

When Quinton, an energetic young boy, was diagnosed with leukemia, his world changed—but his spirit never dimmed. In this moving episode of World of Wishes, we hear from Quinton’s mom, Lorna Swett, to hear how a single wish brought a spark of joy, adventure, and healing to their lives. Quinton’s dream was to meet the Bucket List Family—famous travel journalists based in Maui—and what followed was nothing short of magical. From surfing and boogie boarding to sharing tacos and heartwarming conversations, this experience wasn’t just a break from illness—it was a life-affirming journey filled...

When Mila, a bright and determined young girl, wished for a horse to be named after her, her grandfather Bill Beckley never imagined how deeply it would impact their family.

In this episode of World of Wishes, Bill shares the unforgettable journey of Mila’s wish—from the naming of the horse, to the electric atmosphere of race day, to the tear-filled celebration in the winner’s circle.

It’s a story of hope, connection, and the magic that happens when the horse racing community comes together to make one child feel truly special.

Click...

Fifteen years ago, 4-year-old Madi Simon's wish came true when she visited Walt Disney World. Today, she’s a nursing student, Disney College Program alum, and a passionate advocate for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida through her pageant platform. In this heartwarming episode, Madi shares how her journey with congenital heart disease and her magical stay at Give Kids the World Village inspired her life path—and how the wish experience remains her guiding light.

Learn more about how YOU can make an impact at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Face...

On this special episode of World of Wishes we meet with Michelle Langlois. When Michelle's son Noah, who has spent his entire life in a hospital, wished for a backyard playset, it was more than a request — it was a path to freedom.

Michelle opens up about the impact of Noah’s wish: a playset tailored to his needs, providing therapeutic movement, age-appropriate fun, and a much-needed escape from hospital walls. She reflects on how this simple yet powerful wish changed their everyday lives and gave her hope as a mother.

With deep gratitude, Michelle shar...

Join us as we dive into Delaney Eaves’ unforgettable journey from Chi Omega sorority member to swashbuckling wish granter with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

When Mason, a young boy from Minnesota, wished to be a pirate, Delaney stepped in to bring the high-seas fantasy to life. At Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys, Mason explored a pirate ship, dueled with swords, found buried treasure, crafted pirate hats, and spied on the horizon with a telescope — all with the power of pirates by his side.

Hear how Delaney stayed in character from start to finish and how...

Join us for this episode of World of Wishes, where we meet with Andy Cunningham, wish dad and member of the Tampa Bay Advisory Board.

Andy's daughter Kennedy had a dream come true when she met Joanna Gaines on the set of Magnolia Table. While battling leukemia, Kennedy’s wish brought back the joy, love, and energy that cancer and treatment had taken away. Andy shares the profound impact of Kennedy’s experience, the kindness of Joanna, her husband Chip and the Magnolia team, and how a single wish can bring hope and a renewed spirit in the...

Join is for the 37th episode of the World of Wishes Podcast, where we are joined by Andy Cunningham, wish dad and member of the Southwest Florida Advisory Board.

Andy Cunningham’s daughter Kennedy had a dream come true when she met Joanna Gaines on the set of Magnolia Table. While battling leukemia, Kennedy’s wish brought back the joy, love, and energy that cancer and treatment had taken away. Andy shares the profound impact of Kennedy’s experience, the kindness of Joanna, her husband Chip and the Magnolia team, and how a single wish can bring hope a...

In the 36th episode of World of Wishes, we sit down with Elyse Miller, a rockstar volunteer of over 30 years!

From meeting celebrities to traveling the world, Elyse has helped make dreams come true by granting over 400 unique wishes in the Tampa Bay area. As a dedicated volunteer, she has spent countless hours working closely with wish kids and their families, listening to their stories, understanding their hopes, and turning their visions into reality. Elyse brings compassion, creativity, and commitment to every wish she helps grant. Through her stories, we gain insight into her deep passion for...

In our 35th episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Sara Faella, a devoted Wish Mom, about her daughter’s inspiring journey to receiving a Disney Cruise wish after facing a challenging diagnosis. Sara opened up about the emotional highs and lows of their experience, the impact of the wish on their family, and how Make-A-Wish provides a beacon of hope for families navigating difficult medical journeys. She shared heartfelt moments and the lasting joy it has brought to their lives, while also sharing how her family stays connected to Make-A-Wish.

Learn more about how YOU ca...

In our 34th episode, we spoke with Chuck Stauffer, a Wish Dad and Chair of the Southwest Florida Advisory Board.

Chuck shared how his son's Make-A-Wish experience has had a lasting impact on his family and holds a special place in his heart. Chuck also talks about the importance of a wish and how donors and sponsors help create the magic of wishes.

Learn more about how YOU can make an impact at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

...

In our 33rd episode, we welcomed Sherri Gutierrez, a dedicated volunteer and leader who served as Chair of Walk For Wishes Broward and a board member for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida since 2015.

Sherri shared how she brought joy and hope to countless lives as a wish granter, fundraiser, and the lead architect of the Finker-Frenkel Wish House in Miami. She reflected on her journey, what motivated her, and how rewarding it was to make a difference.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter like Sherri at https://wish.org/sfla!

Join...

Join us for Episode 32 of World of Wishes, where we hear the heartwarming story of Wish Mom Becky Kight and her son Pierce, whose dream of becoming a candymaker brought sweetness to a challenging journey. Becky shares how Pierce’s wish arrived just when they needed it most, bringing joy and resilience to their family during a critical phase of his treatment.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Pierce at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, Yo...

"After so long in the hospital, it's really nice to let go and let yourself feel pampered and feel special." - Maia Diaz

In Episode 31 of World of Wishes, host Richard Kelly sat down with Wish Alumnus Maia Diaz, who reflected on her 2014 wish to go on a Mediterranean cruise.

Maia opened up about her journey living with a chronic illness, how her wish inspired her career, and her passion to help bring more wishes to life for others.

See here for photos from Maia's wish!

To make a donation that...

"For me, in my heart, I truly believe there is no cancer-free if there is no Make-A-Wish." - Marina Diez

In our 30th episode of World Of Wishes, we celebrate the start of Wimbledon with a special guest, Wish Alumnus Marina Diez, who wished to go to Wimbledon back in 2008.

As a rising tennis star on her journey to becoming a world champion, Marina opens up about her second chance at life, her newfound purpose, and how her wish gave her the strength to fight cancer.

Check out photos from her wish at...

"I look back and I see a kid really stoked about some science...and I'm still that kid." - Juliana Bach

In episode 29 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Juliana Bach, who wished to be a scientist back in 2007, talked about her life-long love of science. Her wish led her to visit MIT, sparking a passion that has stayed with her ever since. Today, she is pursuing her bachelor's degree in science, continuing to follow her dream.

To make a donation that impacts a child's life like Juliana, click here!

To learn more...

"It's amazing to be able to impact other people's lives that haven't been through what I've been through." - Grace Lightbody

In episode 28 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Grace Lightbody, who wished to go to Hawaii back in 2013, talked about how her wish saved her life. She is a fixture at Make-A-Wish events here in South Florida and is currently in her "giving era."

To make a donation that impacts a child's life like Grace, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

...

In Episode 27 of World of Wishes - Wish Dad Adam Peacock, whose daughter Kinsley wished to go on a Disney cruise in 2020, talks about how she spent her 6th birthday in style with Mickey, Minnie and their friends.

Adam speaks about Kinsley's brave battle with retinoblastoma, the impact of the wish experience, how their charity - Kinsley's Cookie Cart - was born, and the impact they're making on child warriors battling cancer.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Kinsley at https://wish.org...

"Being able to watch a basketball game that close will forever be one of the coolest things in my life." - Tyler Gutzmer

In episode 26 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Tyler Gutzmer, who wished to be a Miami HEAT Broadcaster back in 2012, talked about how his real-life heroes treated him like family. Tyler spoke about how his wish still resonates with him today - more than 11 years later!

To make a donation that impacts a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.<...

In Episode 25 of World Of Wishes, Make-A-Wish Board of Directors - Gal Bensaadon and Brian Exelbert - discuss founding Wings For Wishes - a chicken wing competition and premiere block party in its' 10th year.

They also talk about what's in store for this years' event and how they've turned their passion into granting hundreds of wishes for children throughout their communities.

Your generous support transforms lives, one wish at a time. Join us at our events today at https://wish.org/sfla/our-events!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit...

It's been 1 Year of World of Wishes!​

In Episode 24 of World Of Wishes, we’re calling back to our first episode and sitting down with our chapter’s President & CEO, Norm Wedderburn.​ He discussed the state of our chapter - Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, running a non-profit in today's world, the opening of the Finker-Frenkel Wish House in Miami (coming soon!), and much more.

Thank you for supporting this podcast by listening, rating, & reviewing!

Find out how YOU can become a volunteer for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida at https://wish.org/sfla/volunteer

To make...