Hudson County Teen's Wish Granted By Make-A-Wish New Jersey

A local child’s wish was recently granted by Make-A-Wish New Jersey, whose mission is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. 17-year-old Maya’s wish to go to Hawaii was granted this summer, thanks to the 2019 Jersey Mike’s Subs “Month of Giving” Campaign, which raised over $458,000 for Make-A-Wish New Jersey in March.

Maya, of Union City, has always dreamed of travelling to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, ever since her aunt and uncle came back from a trip years ago and shared their remarkable experience. Since then, she has become an avid fan of the TV hit Hawaii 5-0, which only continued to peak her curiosity and aspirations of one day seeing the islands herself.

At the young age of 17, Maya has had to endure the fears and anxieties that come with the diagnosis of a critical, life-threatening illness. But Maya has continued to keep her positive attitude and adventurous spirit, facing challenges head-on and standing courageously against her medical condition. For Maya, a trip to Hawaii – basking in the warm sun and taking in the picturesque landscape – would serve a respite from the long journey she and her family had been through.

“It was a nice break from what we’re going through,” shared Maya’s mother, Rosa. “It was so nice to see Maya so happy. It was priceless.”

Maya’s tropical paradise adventure included countless trips to breathtaking beaches – according to Maya, beaches on the far side of the island that were far more private – as well as a snorkeling excursion, and even a chance to swim with dolphins.

“We explored a different beach every day!” Maya shared.

An additional highlight to the trip, while on a boat headed out to snorkel, was when a pod of dolphins swam alongside and even underneath their vessel. The experience was unlike anything Maya and her family had experienced before. The trip is etched in their memories as an oasis, and has provided them with stories to share with friends and family for years to come.

“It was something to look forward to, knowing what she went through,” Maya’s mother Rosa continued. “She was at peace.”

Maya’s wish was granted thanks to the funds raised by Jersey Mike’s Subs as part of this year’s “Month of Giving” campaign. In March, 67 Jersey Mike’s Subs restaurants throughout New Jersey joined forces with Make-A-Wish New Jersey, raising vital funds needed to aid the organization in their mission. The month-long campaign, which culminated with the “Day of Giving”, a day when Jersey Mike’s Subs restaurants donated 100% of the day’s sales, raised enough funds to grant nearly 50 wishes to kids like Maya.

Make-A-Wish New Jersey has granted nearly 11,000 wishes since its inception in 1983. The generous support of corporations like Jersey Mike’s Subs is critical to the organization’s continued success.

For more information about Make-A-Wish New Jersey, visit nj.wish.org.