Calif. Teen Receives Make-A-Wish Trip to Rome (Photos)

ALBANY, CA — When you hear about Make-A-Wish trips, they often involve small children heading to Disneyland or Disney World. But when 16-year-old Maha, a 10th grade student at Albany High School, found out that she had been selected for a wish, she opted for something grander - a trip to Rome!

Maha was surprised at school with the happy news that her wish had been granted. Her teacher, Richard Uhsmann, got the whole school involved in surprising Maha. She and her classmates were asked to go to the school lobby right before lunchtime on Feb 7. With the help of the school’s Best Buddies program, it had been decorated in Italian colors and flags. Members of the San Francisco Opera Chorus sang an aria from Tosca in Maha’s honor, and presented her with autographed sheet music. There was even be a balloon drop.

Local businesses got in on the surprise as well. Zarri’s Deli donated Italian delicacies, Little Star Pizza on Solano and Caravaggio Gelateria donated gift cards, and the owner of The Nail Shop on Solano offered Maha a free manicure.

Maha’s volunteer wish grantors Karin Seid and Albany resident Janna Katz played a big role in the event, along with the Board of Education President, among others.

After celebrating with classmates, Maha headed back to her classroom with her mother, aunt, and cousin to continue the celebration. They will accompany her on the trip.

Janna Katz and the Make-A-Wish volunteer team gave Maha a guidebook, calendar and a map of Rome to help her get ready for her big adventure.

- All photos via Albany Unified School District