Niantic Wish Kid’s Meaningful Greek Getaway

Amelia, now 18-years-old, was born with a hole in her heart that has resulted in several open-heart surgeries. From a young age, though, she has always had the desire to travel the world. “I love travel. I would visit every country if I could,” declared Amelia. However, her illness has made this dream more difficult to achieve than she would like.

That was until this past summer when Make-A-Wish Connecticut granted Amelia a wish. She was so ecstatic over the idea of getting to choose any location in the world – so much so that her list of potential destinations was endless. After much thought, Amelia chose Greece to experience the country’s fascinating history and beautiful islands. “I used to read books about Greek mythology,” she shared, “I’m so excited to see the stories come to life while I’m in Athens.” Not only will Greece provide Amelia with countless interesting history lessons, but it will also act as a well-deserved, calm vacation. “I’m excited to relax on the beach while Make-A-Wish Connecticut is doing all of the hard work and planning that comes with travelling,” she mentioned eagerly.

Amelia did not plan her wish solely around her own interests, though. “My family, especially my mom, has done so much for me throughout my life,” she expressed, “I thought everyone who supported me would love to go to Greece, so this wish is the perfect opportunity for me to thank them for all they’ve done.” Amelia can’t wait to experience all that Greece has to offer while giving back to those who have gave so much to her.

In just a few short weeks, Amelia will leave for her much needed Greek adventure. She just finished up her first year at Clark University in Massachusetts where she is studying to be a teacher, so she is more than ready to unwind for a week with her family by her side. “My wish has been something I can really look forward to,” she said, “My friends are so excited for me to get to do what I love, and I can’t wait to tell everyone about it once I get back.”

Between June and August, Make-A-Wish Connecticut will grant more than 90 wishes to Connecticut children, like Amelia, with critical illnesses—most will include travel. To help make their wishes come true, consider donating at ct.wish.org/summerofwishes.

ABOUT MAKE-A-WISH CONNECTICUT

Make-A-Wish® Connecticut creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child's wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child's treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness. Together, generous donors, supporters, staff and volunteers across the state currently grant nearly 250 wishes a year. Since 1986, Make-A-Wish Connecticut has granted more than 3,000 wishes to local children. For more information about Make-A-Wish Connecticut, visit ct.wish.org.