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1102 43rd Street South, Suite EFargo, ND 58103-2099Phone: 701.280.9474Fax: 701.280.2684Toll-Free: 800.362.9474Website: northdakota.wish.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORSKelly Braun, Board Chair

Chris Gauthier, Vice Chair

Brad Dahl, Secretary

Greg Ellwein, Treasurer

Angie Lord, Director

Arnie Lauinger, Director

Bonnie Goldsberry, Director

Deb Stoltman, Director

Eric Lunn, M.D., Director

Karla Aaland, Director

Kelcee Wold, Director

Kelly Peterson, Director

Kim Ressler, Director

Lana Nicholas, D.C., Director

Sid Spaeth, Director

STAFFBilli Jo Zielinski,President & CEO

Kayla PedersonDirector of Program Services

Dana Altendorf,Director of Community Relations

Lisa Grafstrom,Office and Volunteer Coordinator

Tammy Marquardt,Accountant

Brooke Morris,Wish Coordinator

Alison Warweg,Intern

Laura Gonshorowski,Intern

FOLLOW USLike us on Facebook:Facebook.com/makeawishnd

Follow us on Twitter:@MakeAWishND

View photos of wishes and events:Flickr.com/MakeAWishND

View videos of wishes:Youtube.com/MakeAWishND

What a transformative time to join the team!  As the newly elected Board Chair andfreshly hired President and CEO, we are honored to serve this great organization.Thank you for the trust you have placed in us to advance the Make-A-Wish mission.   

Recently, we had the privilege to participate in the 2013 Annual Conference inArizona.  This year’s theme was “Transformation:  A New Vision for What’s Possible.”It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our fellow chapter counterparts, interactwith the national folks, meet new friends and continue to unite as a team.  We were soproud to witness our beloved chapter receiving three national awards.  In addition, wewere recognized for granting a new record number of wishes (39) in North Dakota lastfiscal year.  Our staff, volunteers and contributors continue to amaze us.  Thank you. 

Another highlight of the conference was having lunch and subsequent conversationswith Linda Pauling and Frank Shankwitz.  As you may know, Linda is Chris Greicius’mom and Frank is an officer who was involved on April 29, 1980, in granting Chris’wish to be a police officer which inspired a national movement.  Frank, his colleagues,family and friends were so transformed by that little boy’s dream, they founded Make-A-Wish later that year.  From one wish to the 14,000 wishes granted last year across ournation, our commitment to the children we serve remains steadfast.  

We are looking forward to building upon the great foundation of the North Dakotachapter and reaching new goals together.  Our vision is making every eligible child’swish come true.  As we strive to achieve our objectives, our staff and the board will needyour continued help.  Whether it is sharing your time and talents or contributing a giftthat is significant to you, please know we value and appreciate it all.

The power of a wish truly transforms everyone involved and changes lives forever.Again, we are grateful for the opportunity to lead this organization, and we dedicateourselves to realizing what’s possible for our future.  On behalf of the Board ofDirectors, may you and your families enjoy the holiday season ahead.

Kind regards,Kelly and Billi

Message fromLeadership

Make-A-Wish® North Dakota staff and board members represented our chapter at this year’s annual Make-A-Wish conference October22-25. They were proud to receive the following three awards: Outstanding Fundraising Performance, Outstanding Mission Performanceand Outstanding Chapter Achievement.

Pictured: Lisa Grafstrom, Dana Altendorf, Billi Jo Zielinski, Frank Shankwitz, Linda Pauling, Kayla Pederson, Kelly Braun, Gene Pauling and Bonnie Goldsberry.

Our mission:We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrichthe human experience with hope, strength and joy.

Our vision:We are dedicated to making every eligible child’s wish come true.

Our number:Every year 50 children in North Dakota are diagnosed with a life-threateningmedical condition.

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“There is no way to put into words the appreciationthat we feel for the people and businesses thatcontributed to Julia’s wish, but the smile on her faceand the bounce in her step are proof that youaccomplished what you set out to do: make her wishcome true! We can only humbly say thank you!” –Wish parents, Nicole and Bryan

“Knowing that I was going to receive a wish helpedme focus on getting better. The wish helped meforget about the chemo treatments, and I pushedmyself to grow stronger so that I could go on mywish.” – Wish child, Matt

WHY A WISH?

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Making a Splash!Addy Swims with Mermaids

Addy (11-year-old from Fargo/Argusville)) Assembled in theirschool’s auditorium for their usual last day of school awardsceremony, Addy and Clay were soon shocked to see their Make-A-Wish volunteers on the stage. In that moment, the assemblytransformed into a surprise announcement that shocked andbrought tears of joy to these siblings. This brother and sister duoshare a bond that not many siblings do: living with the sameprogressive muscle disease. And now they also share the joy oftheir wishes come true. When Addy was brought onstage, her volunteers announced to her wholeschool that her wish to swim with the mermaidswas about to come true. Her response: “I kindaowe them (Make-A-Wish) for the rest of my life,cause this is amazing - honestly. It’s the bestthing that’s ever happened to me so far.”

This was just the start to her magical journey.In July, Addy, filled with excitement andsmiles, traveled to Florida with herfamily for a chance to“experience theworld and feellike she can do

anything.” Addy spends much of her time in her wheelchair, butin the water, she is free. Because mermaids live in water, WeekiWachee Springs, the City of Live Mermaids, in Florida was theperfect place for Addy’s wish to come true. The mermaidsembraced Addy and transformed her into a mermaid by fitting herwith her very own tail. Then the moment finally came when Addyswam through the water with her fellow mermaids. Before hertime with the mermaids, Addy and her family watched themermaids perform their underwater version of “The LittleMermaid.” Besides experiencing life as a mermaid, Addy was ableto spend some time on land to use her park hopper pass to visitDisney’s Magic Kingdom®. There she was able to visit Ariel’sGrotto and meet the little mermaid herself.  

Addy’s mermaid adventure was made possible by her Adopt-A-Wish sponsor the Cullen’s Children Foundation. One of their goalsis to “improve the quality of life for children and their families,who are dealing with cancer or life threatening diseases.” Theywere certainly able to reach this goal with Addy’s wish!

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WishesJulia (8-year-old from Grand Forks) Since Julia has been diagnosed with a Wilms’ tumor, her family hasbeen on a rollercoaster. This May they were able to take a break from those ups and downs to spend time onreal rollercoasters at Walt Disney World® Resort. While traveling, Julia was able to experience all that Orlandohad to offer. Visiting the theme parks was at the top of this active young girl’s list. Throughout the week, Juliawas able to use her park hopper pass to explore the many area theme parks including, the Magic Kingdom®,Animal Kingdom® and SeaWorld. Julia’s mother joyfully expressed, “The smile on her face and the bounce inher step are proof that you accomplished what you set out to do: make her wish come true!”Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Teamsters Local 120

Warren (18-year-old from Grand Forks) For Warren ‘Junior,’ visiting Hawaii was more than a vacation, itwas an escape from his medical reality. Diagnosed six years ago with a progressive form of dystonia, aneurological, movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, Junior hasspent enough time indoors with doctors and therapists. Now it was time for some fun in the sun. Junior andhis family were greeted in the traditional Hawaiian way with leis and “alohas” as they began their adventure.During his wish trip, he went on a submarine tour, learned how to surf, explored the ocean on jet skis andattended a traditional Hawaiian luau. After their time spent in Hawaiian bliss, Junior and his family left withunforgettable memories and experiences to treasure for a lifetime. “We all had a dream vacation in paradise!”Junior’s mom told Make-A-Wish.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Wells Enterprises/Blue Bunny

Clara (3-year-old from Keene) - While she may seem quiet and shy, Clara’s excitement shines as she squeals, “Iwanna build sandcastles!” Diagnosed with leukemia, Clara has spent enough time in doctor’s offices. Although ithas inspired her to be doctor when she grows up. Not just any doctor, but one who “gives hugs and not pokes.” Itwas time for her to take a different type of trip. One where she could play on the sandy beaches of Florida andbuild the sandcastle of a lifetime. Clara, along with her parents and two siblings, departed for St. Pete Beach inFlorida for six days full of fun. While in Florida, Clara stayed at TradeWinds Island Grand Resort. Famous fortheir 20-acre beach front playground and white sand, it was the perfect place for Clara to refine her creativesandcastle skills. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Dickinson Noon Lions Club

Treyson (7-year-old from Dickinson) Like any normal 7-year-old, Treyson is a fan of Disney characters.Reflecting on these popular characters with his continuous smile and energetic attitude, one would never suspectTreyson’s ongoing struggle with a progressive muscle disease. Diagnosed over a year ago, he knew now was thetime to have an adventure of a lifetime. “I want to see the ocean” Treyson wrote on his CaringBridge site. WaltDisney World® Resort in Florida seemed like the perfect place to make his wish come true. When they arrived inFlorida, his family stayed at Give the Kids the World Village, a 70-acre storybook resort. They also receivedcomplimentary passes to all the surrounding theme parks, including the Disney Theme Parks and SeaWorld. Justas he wished for, Treyson was able to experience the ocean.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Dickinson Noon Lions Club

Hailey (13-year-old from Minot) Theme parks, white sandy beaches and movie stars can easily be spotted onthe California coast but are slightly more difficult to spot in Minot; a fact 13-year-old Hailey has taken note of. Ata young age Hailey was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that attacks nerve cellsin the spinal cord. Now was the time to forget about her condition and enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Hailey’smagical wish trip to California began as she was escorted to the airport in a limo just like a Hollywood star.Hailey and her family were able to see all the sites on their journey. In San Diego, they could not pass up a trip toSeaWorld. While they were in Anaheim, two of Hailey's highlights were Disneyland® and breakfast at Goofy'sKitchen. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Teamsters Local 120

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Wishes continuedElijah (6-year-old from Grand Forks) Battling an inherited neurological disorder and an optic glioma tumor,Elijah knew it was time to make his wish come true. Elijah chose to go to Disneyland® in California because heloves the show Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. While exploring California, Elijah was able to enjoy many differentactivities. From dining on a pirate’s ship to leaving forks and knives behind to enjoy a Medieval Times meal whilewatching knights battle for the honor of their kingdom. Elijah and his family were able to experience World ofColor, an evening water show that combines water, color, fire and light into an array of fantasy. Elijah discoveredmany rollercoasters at Knott’s Berry Farm, America’s first themed amusement park. He was also greeted bysome of his favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse and characters from the movie Cars.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Cullen Children’s Foundation

Lane (12-year-old from Grace City) For most kids a trip to the pool is a summertime treat, but for 12-year-oldLane, it’s also a way to fight the onset progression of PKAN. PKAN is a neurological disease, characterized by anexcess build-up of iron in the brain. After spending countless hours in a therapy pool, Lane was eager to trade thefamiliar chlorine water for the salty waves of Hawaii. When asked by Make-A-Wish® volunteers why he choseHawaii, Lane perked right up, “I want to see clownfish, and I want to swim with sharks and dolphins!” While inHawaii, Lane was able to attend the Legends of the Pacific Luau. The luau included authentic Polynesiandancing, music and an extensive tropical buffet; complete with a roasted kalua pig. Lane had the opportunity tosee sharks and other fun aquatic species through a custom glass bottomed boat. He was also able to feed, touch,play, and of course swim with the marine mammals.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Luis Garcia

Kaylee (7-year-old from Williston) From her decorated room, to her wardrobe, Kaylee’s admiration for theDisney princesses is apparent. Born premature by 11 weeks Kaylee, who lives with a neurological condition, hasbeen a regular at doctor’s offices and clinics her entire life and is in need of some serious princess time. Whenasked why she wanted to go to Walt Disney World® Resort Kaylee gave a big smile and replied, “To meet ALL theDisney princesses!” and because “I would remember it forever and ever.” While in Florida, Kaylee was given thereal princess treatment while she dined at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Kaylee and her family also visited thenumerous Disney Theme Parks, and of course they met ALL the Disney Princesses. It was a vacation Kaylee willcertainly remember forever and ever. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Packers Plus and Doug & Donnette Taylor

Michael (14-year-old from Williston) Michael lives with a progressive genetic disorder that often causes alack of energy and poor immune system. Michael took this into account when determining what to wish for.Considering what brings him the most joy and carefree experiences, he knew his wish would be to travel to anairsoft battlefield with his best friend. Michael and his best friend Zach spend many hours, indoors and outdoors,setting up their own battlefields at home and now it was time to travel to Vermont to play on a real airsoftbattlefield. Michael and Zach were given the VIP treatment at one of New England’s premier airsoft battlefields,MACV Airsoft, and had a full day of battle. To sweeten the trip, they were also treated to a factory tour of Ben &Jerry’s Ice Cream. When describing the experience, Michael’s father says the best part was “seeing his son smilefrom the heart again.”Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Energy Outreach Williston

Addie (4-year-old from Lisbon) Addie isn’t your typical 4-year-old boy. Diagnosed with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy, an inherited disorderthat involves muscle weakness, Addie is easily fatigued and unable to participate in the usual 4-year-old fashion. Wanting to be free from hisprogressive illness he knew the perfect place to enjoy being a kid to the fullest extent. Addie’s wish to go to Walt Disney World® Resort came true ashe and his family traveled to the magical theme parks of Orlando. During his time in the tropics of Florida, Addie stayed at Give the Kids the WorldVillage. They also received complimentary passes to all the surrounding theme parks, including the Disney Theme Parks to explore during theirtime in Florida. Addie enjoyed roaming the parks and exploring as a normal 4-year-old boy.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Alliance Pipeline

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Macy’s Believe CampaignBelievers of all ages! Bring your stamped letter to Macy’s, addressed to Santa at theNorth Pole, and drop it into the Macy’s Santa Mail Letterbox from now until Dec.24. For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to Make-A-Wish up to $1 million.Visit macys.com/believe to learn more.

Scan DesignLooking for your new favorite chair? From November 27 to January 20 visit Scan Design in either theGrand Forks or Fargo locations to purchase your brand new Ekornes Stressless chair. For every chairpurchased $50 will be donated to Make-A-Wish. This is one comfy promotion you won’t want to missout on.

Share the LoveDuring the 2013 Subaru “Share the Love” event, Subaru of America, Inc. will donate $250 for eachnew Subaru vehicle sold or leased between Nov. 21 – Jan. 2, to participating charities selected by thepurchaser. And Make-A-Wish is one of those charities!

Things RememberedThings Remembered has designed 13 engravable gifts that will benefit children facing life-threatening medical conditions this holiday season. For every purchase of these ornaments, jewelrypieces and collectibles, Things Remembered will donate $2 to Make-A-Wish. Find a store near you atthingsremembered.com.

Helzberg DiamondsDuring the holiday season, $3 from the sale of each Limited Edition Helzberg Diamonds I AMLOVED® Bear will be donated to Make-A-Wish. Visit www.helzberg.com to find a store near you.

Tributes and MemorialsMake a donation in honor of a loved one this holiday season. This is the perfect time of year to make a gift that lifts and inspires thehuman spirit and brings joy to children. You can also purchase your holiday greeting cards through the Make-A-Wish® Season ofWishes Holiday Card Program. Visit holidaycards.wish.org/office/050-000 to order your cards today.

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Save the DateLooking for a way to get involved with Make-A-Wish? Check out these upcoming eventsyou can participate in and watch our website for more details.

Williston Golf TournamentMay 16, 2014

The 16th Annual Golf Tournament at Links of North Dakota Golf Course in Ray, NDis a community event for golfers of all ages and abilities. Join us on May 16 as wecome together to support children with life-threatening conditions and make wishescome true.

Make-A-Wish Night at the Fargo ForceDecember 13, 2013

Join Make-A-Wish North Dakota and Farmers Union Insuranceon December 13 as the Fargo Force take on the Sioux CityMusketeers. Help us have a sellout crowd to cheer on the Force andour Make-A-Wish kids. With the game taking place so close toChristmas, you never know who just might show up. To purchaseyour tickets, call the box office at 701.364.3672.

Giving Hearts DayFebruary 13, 2014

Dakota Medical Foundation and Impact Foundationhave selected Make-A-Wish North Dakota to participate in the 2014 GivingHearts Day, a 24-hour online fundraising event that will be held on February13. Contributions of $10 or more will be matched by Make-A-Wish®

supporters.

World Wish DayApril 29, 2014

On April 29, more than 30 years to the day after a youngleukemia patient named Chris was granted his wish to be apolice officer for a day, Make-A-Wish supporters around theglobe will celebrate World Wish Day, in honor of the wishthat sparked a global wish-granting movement.

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Evan (8-year-old from Grand Forks) Tropical temperatures, warm sandy beaches, Disney characters, anddolphin swimming buddies are enough to make anyone want to go on a Disney Cruise® but to Evan it was a wishof a lifetime. Evan lives with a gastrointestinal disorder. As a result, Evan has endured many surgeries (aftereight surgeries the family quit counting) and hospitalizations during his short life. His wish to go on a cruisecame true as he traded the snow banks of Grand Forks for the rays of sunshine in the Caribbean. While at sea,Evan and his family played on Goofy’s sports deck, ate elegant meals and rode the AquaDuck “water coaster.”Evan was also able to swim with dolphins on the tropical island of Nassau. A perfect getaway. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Teamsters Local 120

Clay (8-year-old from Fargo/Argusville)) Clay lives with a rare progressive muscle disease that occasionallyputs him in leg braces. Despite needing some occasional assistance from leg braces to get around in real life, inthe gaming world he needs no assistance.  Clay loves playing videogames and knew exactly what his wish wouldbe: to have an Xbox. But not just any Xbox, Clay wanted something he can play with that would be “his veryown.” Clay was gifted just that. As a special wish enhancement, Clay was picked up in a limo and brought toGameStop. There he was given a gift card to shop for new Xbox games to go with his new system. Then as Claydined at his favorite restaurant, volunteers went to his home and set up his Xbox so it would be all ready for himwhen he got home from a full afternoon of wish-tastic fun. He is now a proud owner of an Xbox engraved with"Property of Clay" right in front. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: SERVE Foundation

Jonathan (19-year-old from Minot) Recent graduate, Jonathan, is handling the adjustments of choosing acollege, selecting a career path and leaving the comforts of home, as well as coping with the challenges thataccompany a gastrointestinal disorder. Due to his condition, Jonathan has been in and out of the hospitalnumerous times and was even forced to cancel a previous wish trip due to his poor state of health. Despite all hehas gone through, Jonathan was ready to start the next chapter of his life. With hopes of becoming a historyteacher and having always been a fan of history and architecture, Jon knew Washington D.C. was the perfectplace for his wish trip. Jonathan and his family selected the perfect time to visit Washington D.C., right after theFourth of July! Still buzzing with Independence Day celebrations Washington D.C. was abundant with festivitieswhen he arrived. During their visit Jonathan explored the city, enjoyed the historical culture and admired itsprestigious architecture. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: American Casing & Equipment, Inc.

Mykenzie (16-year-old from Mandan) Mykenzie embarked on a much deserved adventure to Florida thisspring. This teen, who deals with a progressive life-threatening medical condition, wished to play in the oceanand swim with dolphins. While she could not verbally express her wish, the smiles and excitement shown whenplaying with water confirmed a trip to the ocean was a wish come true. Mykenzie and her family travelled toFlorida for time to forget about doctors and enjoy the waves. They were also able to go to Discovery Cove whereshe had her special dolphin encounter. Mykenzie was even given the opportunity to soak up some sun on thebeach and Jet Ski in the ocean waves.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Dakota Community Bank & Trust

Mandy (17-year-old from Hunter) Mandy deals with the normal challenges of being a teenage girl while alsobattling Cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome (CFC). A rare genetic disorder, CFC affects many parts of the bodyincluding; the heart, facial features, skin pigmentation and hair growth. While her condition may have effects onher body it certainly does not affect her upbeat and positive personality. Through the years Mandy has attended aconference in Orlando where she and others who live with CFC can unite. Mandy has met some of her very bestfriends at the CFC conference. When thinking of what her one true wish was, for Mandy the decision was easy: tobe reunited with her friends at the CFC conference. Not only did Mandy get to spend time with her old friendsbut she also made new friends. As a special enhancement, Mandy and her friends were treated to a muchdeserved spa and relaxation day. Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Western Products

Wishes continued

Hunter (10-year-old from Linton) Hunter was diagnosed with a congenital cardiac condition at a young age.Hunter wished to go to Walt Disney World® Resort because he could, “Wake up and go on rides.” The magicbegan when a limo picking him up to take him to the airport. In Orlando, Hunter filled his days full of fun withrides and experiences to last a lifetime. His dad told Make-A-Wish, “Hunter’s wish was amazing, he said the bestpart of the trip was becoming a Jedi and meeting Darth Vader! … I think the best part of the trip was Hunter’scontinuous SMILE! Words cannot describe how thankful we are to Make-A-Wish!”Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: In Memory of Shirley Unterseher

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Wishes continuedMicah (18-year-old from Milnor) Micah was diagnosed with Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy. This rapidlyprogressive disease confines Micah to a wheelchair, but that certainly doesn’t slow him down. Micah wished forhim and his family to go on an Alaskan Cruise. He and his family left for the wilderness and to explore the greatoutdoors. On his wish trip, Micah and his family boarded the Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas ship. Thehighlight of their trip was going on the Taku Lodge Feast and 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery excursion. They wereable to eat fresh salmon and have breathtaking views while flying over Juneau’s largest glacier.

Joanna (16-year-old from Williston) Joanna lives with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She was recently given thechance to dream up her ideal wish and knew she wanted to go on a tropical vacation. Between the splendidJamaican mountains and the deep-blue Caribbean Sea, Jamaica provided the ideal setting to do it all. Joanna andher family were able to stay at a resort on the edge of Montego Bay that offers stunning views of the CaribbeanSea. There they enjoyed comfortable and contemporary accommodations and a range of onsite activities. Therewere two specific activities Joanna knew she wanted to do on her vacation. While soaking up the sun in Jamaica,Joanna and her family went on an excursion to swim with dolphins. They also had a tee time at Cinnamon HillGolf Course where she could focus on her swing, which was a great joy to Joanna. Since her diagnoses, she hasbeen unable to participate in golf at school.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: Energy Outreach Initiative Williston

Ransom (16-year-old from Minot) – While most 16-year-olds are preparing to take their driver’s license test,Ransom was preparing for treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. These past few months Ransom has had much tocelebrate. In March, Ransom was officially in remission and July brought the joy of a wish come true. A dog is aman’s best friend and now Ransom has a brand new friend in his life. Ransom was gifted his own golden retrieverpuppy. With a smile on his face, Ransom named the newest family member Zeta, after the new space discovery.Adopt-A-Wish® Sponsor: United Healthcare

Emmett (9-year-old from Fargo) While this 9-year-old has been battling life-threatening medical conditionssince birth, Emmett is a happy and smiley boy. And one of the things that brings a big smile on his face areSesame Street characters. While he could not verbally communicate his wish, those smiles made it known hiswish was to meet Sesame Street characters. For his wish trip, Emmett and his family traveled to Langhorne,Pennsylvania home of Sesame Place. Emmett met and interacted with many of his favorite characters. They wereeven able to eat lunch with Elmo and all of his furry and feathered friends. As an added treat, Emmett went towatch the Philadelphia Phillies play the Los Angeles Dodgers. Emmett and his family also experienced all thatPhiladelphia had to offer by visiting sites like the Liberty Bell. After his trip his CaringBridge page shared:“Emmett had such a tough summer that we were so worried this trip wouldn’t happen, but it did and we couldn’tbe more thankful! I can’t say enough good things about Make-A-Wish!”

Kaydense (8-year-old from Bismarck) Kaydense had the trip of a lifetime. Leaving behind the worries ofdoctors’ appointments and cancer treatments, Kaydense wished to go to the land “where dreams come true.” Sheand her family took advantage of all that land and Orlando had to offer. Kaydense met Disney princesses andwatched the parade at Magic Kingdom®, went on a safari at Animal Kingdom®, watched the shows at SeaWorldand spent time at the ocean. Not to mention all the fun she had at Give Kids the World Village. Kaydense rodehorses and made sure to have some of the ice cream served all day, every day. She was full of smiles and laughterwhen the mayor of Give Kids the World Village, a giant bunny, came to tuck her in for bed. She truly went to theland where her dreams came true.

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What a successful fall with three events across the state taking place to share our missionand amazing wish stories.

Event season kicked off with our third annual Wine &Wishes “An Enchanted Evening” in Fargo. The eveningwas filled with an array of delicious wines, courtesy ofHappy Harry’s Bottle Shops, hors d’oeuvres,entertainment, silent and live auctions. But of course inan evening to celebrate wishes, the highlights were ourwish families. When a backpack mysteriously showed upon the stage for Brea she had to go and take a look. Brealoves “Dora the Explorer” and just like every episode ofDora, there was a map waiting for Brea that outlined herupcoming adventure. Her wish granter happilyannounced to Brea, her family and all in attendance thather wish to meet Nickelodeon characters was going tocome true! After seeing the start of one wish, guestslearned how a wish stays with families for years whenthe Taylor family spoke. They shared what it was likewhen Make-A-Wish first came into their lives over 15

years ago and how it continues to impact them today. The audience was moved by the lastingimpact of the their wish experience.

Then it was time to head out west for our very firstWishes in the West event in Williston. The steak frydinner and silent auction were just the start to the night.While the room filled with wish stories, the mission cameto life when the Bergstrom family took the stage.Michael’s wish came true this past May (see page 6 forfull story), and he along with his parents recalled thelows of his condition and the highs of his wish trip.Perhaps the most inspiring moment was when his fathertold the audience his favorite moment of the wish trip:“seeing Michael smile from the heart again.” After theirtouching story, the auctioneer took the stage and the liveauction began. The auction created bidding wars thathad our auctioneer and guests just as excited as thosebidding. But that was just the start of the entertainment.At the close of the live auction, October Road, a North

Dakota based band whose sound is best described as “funky country,” rocked the house.

Last but certainly not least was World of Wishesin Bismarck. Whether they were socializing,bidding on the silent auction or capturing theevening with their picture in the photobooth, guestswere entertained from the very start of the night.Our special guests of the night were three brotherswho share the same condition, PKAN. Their familyspoke about Ty’s wish to hang out with cowboys inTexas and Lane’s wish to go to Hawaii, but thatwasn’t the last the audience saw of the Kulsrudfamily. Later, James from JakeStar shared a fewwords about what it was like to be the sponsor ofTy’s wish. James then announced TannerKulsrud’s wish to go on a cruise is coming true, and

JakeStar was thrilled to be his wish sponsor. Just when the crowd thought the excitementwas over Steve and Carla Pine surprised everyone by graciously matching all cash donationsmade during the Adopt-A-Wish portion of the live auction! Then to end the night a finalannouncement was made. For the first time, Make-A-Wish North Dakota was proud topresent the Indomitable Spirit Award to Bill and Glenda Jennings.

A huge thank you to all who sponsored, volunteered and attendedWine & Wishes, Wishesin the West and World of Wishes. Those nights would not be a success without you.

Make-A-Wish®would like to thank the followingcompanies, organizations and groups fortheir generous support of our wishchildren.

Bison6 CinemaThis Jamestown theater continues to raiseawareness and dollars for Make-A-Wishthrough their coin collection. Moviegoersnow have the chance to also give back aswell as see their film. Through their effortsover $350 were recently donated.

Dickinson Noon Lions ClubIn their 12th Annual Benefit for Make-A-Wish, the Dickinson Noon Lions Club set arecord. This benefit, which features a silentand live auction, raffle, dinner andentertainment, raised over $100,000! TheDickinson community has truly embracedMake-A-Wish, the local wish kids’ storiesand this benefit to make a difference inwish children’s lives. A huge thank yougoes out to all who are involved with thissuccessful event!

Famous Dave’s Golf TournamentWith their annual golf tournament,Famous Dave’s of Fargo provides a sauce-tastic time for golfers. Not only was it agreat day to be out on the course, butparticipants also had the chance to playsome extra games to win additional prizes.This tournament never has a shortage offun or delicious food and thanks to all theirhard work, this year over $3,600 wereraised.

Bismarck Fashion ShowIn the Sixth Annual Bismarck FashionShow, Cara Mund was able to show fashionlovers just what the spring had to offer.With wish kids modeling the new line fromAttitudes, the show had no shortage ofsparkle and spunk. Thank you to all whoattended and sponsored the show andhelped over $6,700 be donated to Make-A-Wish.

Freedom RidersIn April the Freedom Riders held theirAnnual Motorcycle Classic at the Ramkotain Bismarck. This year attendees were ableto view auction items, motorcycles andlearn about Make-A-Wish. The FreedomRiders were recently touched by a localwish child’s story and wanted to donate aportion of the proceeds to Make-A-Wish.Many thanks to all who attended and tothe Freedom Riders for their $3,000donation.

Northrup GrummanFor years Northrup Grumman has hostedan employee charity golf tournament. Aftersuch a successful and positive experiencegolfing for Make-A-Wish for their 2012tournament, they knew who they wantedto benefit from their 2013 tournament.This summer 72 employees golfed 18 holesfor Make-A-Wish and raised over $3,300 forwish kids.

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MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION®

OF NORTH DAKOTA1102 43rd Street SW, Ste EFargo, ND 58103

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