www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 61 HEALTHL INKS IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH THESE UPSTATE AREA NONPROFITS DIAGNOSED WITH PARKINSON’S? See how we can support you. 864-905-2574 You are not alone. We are an advocate for people and their families living with PD. We offer support groups and other monthly programs to help maximize the quality of life for all individuals affected by Parkinson’s Disease. gapsonline.org members are recognized for their achievements, and one standout woman is named W.I.S.H. Society Woman of the Year. Make-A-Wish South Carolina is seeking 10 women in the Lowcountry and 10 in the Upstate to take on the incredibly rewarding philanthropic responsibility of helping to bring light to a child’s life. Once you hear the children’s wishes, you will know how deserving they are. The kids are an inspiration themselves, not just for their courage in facing their illness but for some of the wishes they request. Some wish for a magical trip to Walt Disney World, a tropical vacation or a trip to Florida or Hilton Head Island, and who wouldn’t want to grant them that? But you might be surprised – and it might bring tears to your eyes – to hear some of the children’s simpler wishes. Anne Clair, a 14-year-old battling cancer, wished for a party for her medical staff. Alexander, 12, who is fighting leukemia, wished for a computer. Sirr, 18, who has a nervous system disorder, wished for an adaptive bike. Several wished for a bedroom makeover. Charles, 14, battling lymphoma, wished for a Star Wars experience. And 12-year-old Ethan, who has a nervous system disorder, wished for a camper so he could experience his favorite activity with his family. When their wishes are granted, their joy and excitement can’t be contained, as evidenced by the giant smiles on their faces – like Deisy, who looks like a princess in her cobalt sequined ball gown and crystal-studded tiara. Or 5-year-old Bennett, who has a heart disorder, in his custom-made police uniform, proudly bringing in a criminal he just caught. Or Adrian, 14, grinning widely as he stood on the field getting ready to play the trumpet with the University of Michigan marching band, which was his wish. There was 18-year-old Ethan, who was born with congenital anomalies, holding the viola he wished for. “These kids are amazing,” said Alifanow. On May 14, you can hear from some of the children themselves about how having their wish granted impacted their life during Wish Night, the Make-A-Wish inaugural gala, which will be held at the Charleston Gaillard Center. “We’ll have a silent auction, a live auction, a gourmet dinner and a beautiful program with four spectacular Wish kids,” Alifanow said. “We're currently looking for sponsors and table sponsors.” Individuals, businesses and corporations who want to spark joy in a child’s life and help that child cope with the stress of fighting a critical illness can sponsor a table, donate an auction item or simply donate. To do so, contact Shannon Rice at [email protected] or visit wish.org/sc. Photo courtesy of Angel Mascarin Studios.
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