World of Wishes

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 every referral starts a ripple of hope that lasts a lifetime.

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 - emceeing Make-A-Wish events, championing joy, and dreaming big in performance. It’s a reminder that a wish can lift a child, a family, and everyone watching.Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 later, she committed to Yale volleyball, mentored other pulmonary patients, thanked her wish sponsors from the stage, and found her career intersecting with our Miami home—the Finker‑Frenkel Wish House—bringing her journey full circle. In this episode, Lauren shares how positivity, family, and a single wish can fuel a decade of momentum—and why she proudly wears “Wish Kid” as a badge of honor. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 magical wish day, revealing how the experience provided both healing and wonder for Gemma and her loved ones. Through this moving story, listeners experience the transformative power of hope, community, and compassion, and are reminded of the lasting impact that celebrating life’s milestones can have for children and families facing adversity. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 Outback, and rediscovered joy with her loved ones. Now more than a decade later, she reflects on the lasting impact of that experience, the strength it gave her, and why she continues to give back as a passionate ambassador for Make-A-Wish. This is a story of resilience and the impact of a wish fulfilled. With touching stories, raw emotion, and a genuine heart for service, Alex reveals why she calls Make-A-Wish “her baby”—and how each wish leaves a lasting mark not just on the lives of the children, but on hers as well. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 - donors, volunteers, and visionaries - whose support has fueled every milestone. With heartfelt gratitude and unwavering commitment, he shares how collective generosity has shaped the success of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida and why the power of a wish continues to inspire him year after year. This episode is a celebration of leadership, legacy, and the extraordinary spirit of one man’s mission to make dreams come true. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 illnesses. With touching stories, raw emotion, and a genuine heart for service, Alex reveals why she calls Make-A-Wish “her baby”—and how each wish leaves a lasting mark not just on the lives of the children, but on hers as well. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 with hope, laughter, and unforgettable memories.Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 here to watch Mila's Wish win the race!https://vimeo.com/1113374633?share=copyLearn 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!Follow, rate, & review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Follow, rate, & review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 shares her thanks to the generous donors who gave Noah the gift of play — and a glimpse of normal childhood joy. 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!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 this experience brought her full circle from her college support of Make-A-Wish to becoming part of the magic herself.

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 toughest times.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!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 volunteering and the joy she finds in building meaningful connections with the families she serves. Her selfless dedication is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have through kindness, empathy, and the simple act of giving their time.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!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 can make an impact at https://wish.org/sfla!Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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 us at Walk For Wishes Broward on January 25, 2025! Learn more at https://walkforwishessfla.net/event-detailsBe sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

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, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

"After so long in the hospital, it's really nice to let go and let yourself feel pampered and feel special." - Maia DiazIn 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 impacts a child's life like Maia's, click here!To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.Check us out on social media @makeawishsfla: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, rate, & review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

"For me, in my heart, I truly believe there is no cancer-free if there is no Make-A-Wish." - Marina DiezIn 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 worldofwishespodcast.orgTo make a donation that impacts a child's life like Marina's, click here!To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.Check us out on social media @makeawishsfla: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!Subscribe, rate, & review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!