The “can’t-miss” event of the South Florida social scene took place on Saturday, November 12th. Yes, I’m referring to the 21st Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball. Decorated as a “Night of the Animal” theme, a performance by the unbelievable John Legend and actress Gabrielle Anwar as the celebrity emcee.
Aside from being one of the most anticipated events of the year, this particular charity holds an extremely special place in my heart. Make-A-Wish grants wishes for kids with life-threatening medical conditions which, in turn, makes life a lot better for these children battling for their lives.
As a Wish Benefactor for over fifteen years, I have always received a profound sense of gratitude and genuine happiness when wishes are granted. Annually, THE COLLECTION has assisted in raising funds for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. How do we do it? We donate the most sought-after and head-turning car for the much talked about live auction portion of the evening. What was this year’s gem? None other than the luxurious 2017 PORSCHE MACAN. All proceeds collected, which in year’s past was close to $100,000, go toward granting the wishes of our community’s children.
So how did Make-A-Wish come to fruition? Well, the foundation’s humble beginnings stemmed from one boy’s wish to have a computer — to today, where a wish is granted every 16 hours! From granting children trips to Disney World to being real firemen to meeting celebrities, Make-A-Wish makes real MAGIC happen.
So how do “WISHES” work? It’s an easy four-step process:
Step 1: Referral — Make-A-Wish relies on medical professionals, parents and children themselves for referrals. Children who have reached the age of 21 and are under the age of 18 at the time of referral — and have not received a wish from another wish-granting organization — may be eligible for a wish.
Step 2: Medical Eligibility — The foundation determines a child’s medical eligibility with the help of the treating physician. To receive a wish, the child must be diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition (a progressive, degenerative or malignant condition that has placed the child’s life in jeopardy).
Step 3: The Wish — The Make-A-Wish Foundation sends one of their enthusiastic wish teams to learn the child’s one true wish. These committed volunteers connect with wish children, awaken their imaginations and help them envision an experience with the power to change lives.
Step 4: Creating Joy — The foundation’s “wish granters” create an unforgettable experience driven by the child’s creativity. They strive to personalize each wish and to make it match the child’s idea of a perfect day.
