In this inspiring episode of The World of Wishes, we sit down with Shareef Malnik - Board Chair Emeritus, Chairman of the Capital and Endowment Campaign, and the 20-year Chair of the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball. Shareef opens up about his deep-rooted connection to Make-A-Wish, describing the mission as part of his DNA. From leading one of the most iconic philanthropic events in South Florida to spearheading transformative campaigns, his journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership and enduring legacy.

Listeners will hear Shareef reflect on the people who’ve stood beside him - do...

In episode 42 of “World of Wishes”, we visit with Alex de Armas, longtime morning anchor on WSVN Channel 7 in Miami and a passionate Make-A-Wish Southern Florida ambassador, volunteer wish granter, and event host. Born and raised in Miami, Alex shares her deep connection to the community she serves both on and off the air.

For Alex, giving back isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a calling. “When you love it, there’s nothing stopping you,” she says, and that love shines through as she recounts the unforgettable moments she’s experienced while granting wishes to children with critical illn...

When Quinton, an energetic young boy, was diagnosed with leukemia, his world changed—but his spirit never dimmed. In this moving episode of World of Wishes, we hear from Quinton’s mom, Lorna Swett, to hear how a single wish brought a spark of joy, adventure, and healing to their lives. Quinton’s dream was to meet the Bucket List Family—famous travel journalists based in Maui—and what followed was nothing short of magical. From surfing and boogie boarding to sharing tacos and heartwarming conversations, this experience wasn’t just a break from illness—it was a life-affirming journey filled...

When Mila, a bright and determined young girl, wished for a horse to be named after her, her grandfather Bill Beckley never imagined how deeply it would impact their family.

In this episode of World of Wishes, Bill shares the unforgettable journey of Mila’s wish—from the naming of the horse, to the electric atmosphere of race day, to the tear-filled celebration in the winner’s circle.

It’s a story of hope, connection, and the magic that happens when the horse racing community comes together to make one child feel truly special.

Click...

Fifteen years ago, 4-year-old Madi Simon's wish came true when she visited Walt Disney World. Today, she’s a nursing student, Disney College Program alum, and a passionate advocate for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida through her pageant platform. In this heartwarming episode, Madi shares how her journey with congenital heart disease and her magical stay at Give Kids the World Village inspired her life path—and how the wish experience remains her guiding light.

Learn more about how YOU can make an impact at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Face...

On this special episode of World of Wishes we meet with Michelle Langlois. When Michelle's son Noah, who has spent his entire life in a hospital, wished for a backyard playset, it was more than a request — it was a path to freedom.

Michelle opens up about the impact of Noah’s wish: a playset tailored to his needs, providing therapeutic movement, age-appropriate fun, and a much-needed escape from hospital walls. She reflects on how this simple yet powerful wish changed their everyday lives and gave her hope as a mother.

With deep gratitude, Michelle shar...

Join us as we dive into Delaney Eaves’ unforgettable journey from Chi Omega sorority member to swashbuckling wish granter with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

When Mason, a young boy from Minnesota, wished to be a pirate, Delaney stepped in to bring the high-seas fantasy to life. At Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys, Mason explored a pirate ship, dueled with swords, found buried treasure, crafted pirate hats, and spied on the horizon with a telescope — all with the power of pirates by his side.

Hear how Delaney stayed in character from start to finish and how...

Join us for this episode of World of Wishes, where we meet with Andy Cunningham, wish dad and member of the Tampa Bay Advisory Board.

Andy's daughter Kennedy had a dream come true when she met Joanna Gaines on the set of Magnolia Table. While battling leukemia, Kennedy’s wish brought back the joy, love, and energy that cancer and treatment had taken away. Andy shares the profound impact of Kennedy’s experience, the kindness of Joanna, her husband Chip and the Magnolia team, and how a single wish can bring hope and a renewed spirit in the...

Join is for the 37th episode of the World of Wishes Podcast, where we are joined by Andy Cunningham, wish dad and member of the Southwest Florida Advisory Board.

Andy Cunningham’s daughter Kennedy had a dream come true when she met Joanna Gaines on the set of Magnolia Table. While battling leukemia, Kennedy’s wish brought back the joy, love, and energy that cancer and treatment had taken away. Andy shares the profound impact of Kennedy’s experience, the kindness of Joanna, her husband Chip and the Magnolia team, and how a single wish can bring hope a...

In the 36th episode of World of Wishes, we sit down with Elyse Miller, a rockstar volunteer of over 30 years!

From meeting celebrities to traveling the world, Elyse has helped make dreams come true by granting over 400 unique wishes in the Tampa Bay area. As a dedicated volunteer, she has spent countless hours working closely with wish kids and their families, listening to their stories, understanding their hopes, and turning their visions into reality. Elyse brings compassion, creativity, and commitment to every wish she helps grant. Through her stories, we gain insight into her deep passion for...

In our 35th episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Sara Faella, a devoted Wish Mom, about her daughter’s inspiring journey to receiving a Disney Cruise wish after facing a challenging diagnosis. Sara opened up about the emotional highs and lows of their experience, the impact of the wish on their family, and how Make-A-Wish provides a beacon of hope for families navigating difficult medical journeys. She shared heartfelt moments and the lasting joy it has brought to their lives, while also sharing how her family stays connected to Make-A-Wish.

Learn more about how YOU ca...

In our 34th episode, we spoke with Chuck Stauffer, a Wish Dad and Chair of the Southwest Florida Advisory Board.

Chuck shared how his son's Make-A-Wish experience has had a lasting impact on his family and holds a special place in his heart. Chuck also talks about the importance of a wish and how donors and sponsors help create the magic of wishes.

Learn more about how YOU can make an impact at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

...

In our 33rd episode, we welcomed Sherri Gutierrez, a dedicated volunteer and leader who served as Chair of Walk For Wishes Broward and a board member for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida since 2015.

Sherri shared how she brought joy and hope to countless lives as a wish granter, fundraiser, and the lead architect of the Finker-Frenkel Wish House in Miami. She reflected on her journey, what motivated her, and how rewarding it was to make a difference.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter like Sherri at https://wish.org/sfla!

Join...

Join us for Episode 32 of World of Wishes, where we hear the heartwarming story of Wish Mom Becky Kight and her son Pierce, whose dream of becoming a candymaker brought sweetness to a challenging journey. Becky shares how Pierce’s wish arrived just when they needed it most, bringing joy and resilience to their family during a critical phase of his treatment.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Pierce at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, Yo...

"After so long in the hospital, it's really nice to let go and let yourself feel pampered and feel special." - Maia Diaz

In Episode 31 of World of Wishes, host Richard Kelly sat down with Wish Alumnus Maia Diaz, who reflected on her 2014 wish to go on a Mediterranean cruise.

Maia opened up about her journey living with a chronic illness, how her wish inspired her career, and her passion to help bring more wishes to life for others.

See here for photos from Maia's wish!

To make a donation that...

"For me, in my heart, I truly believe there is no cancer-free if there is no Make-A-Wish." - Marina Diez

In our 30th episode of World Of Wishes, we celebrate the start of Wimbledon with a special guest, Wish Alumnus Marina Diez, who wished to go to Wimbledon back in 2008.

As a rising tennis star on her journey to becoming a world champion, Marina opens up about her second chance at life, her newfound purpose, and how her wish gave her the strength to fight cancer.

Check out photos from her wish at...

"I look back and I see a kid really stoked about some science...and I'm still that kid." - Juliana Bach

In episode 29 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Juliana Bach, who wished to be a scientist back in 2007, talked about her life-long love of science. Her wish led her to visit MIT, sparking a passion that has stayed with her ever since. Today, she is pursuing her bachelor's degree in science, continuing to follow her dream.

To make a donation that impacts a child's life like Juliana, click here!

To learn more...

"It's amazing to be able to impact other people's lives that haven't been through what I've been through." - Grace Lightbody

In episode 28 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Grace Lightbody, who wished to go to Hawaii back in 2013, talked about how her wish saved her life. She is a fixture at Make-A-Wish events here in South Florida and is currently in her "giving era."

To make a donation that impacts a child's life like Grace, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

...

In Episode 27 of World of Wishes - Wish Dad Adam Peacock, whose daughter Kinsley wished to go on a Disney cruise in 2020, talks about how she spent her 6th birthday in style with Mickey, Minnie and their friends.

Adam speaks about Kinsley's brave battle with retinoblastoma, the impact of the wish experience, how their charity - Kinsley's Cookie Cart - was born, and the impact they're making on child warriors battling cancer.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Kinsley at https://wish.org...

"Being able to watch a basketball game that close will forever be one of the coolest things in my life." - Tyler Gutzmer

In episode 26 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Tyler Gutzmer, who wished to be a Miami HEAT Broadcaster back in 2012, talked about how his real-life heroes treated him like family. Tyler spoke about how his wish still resonates with him today - more than 11 years later!

To make a donation that impacts a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.<...

In Episode 25 of World Of Wishes, Make-A-Wish Board of Directors - Gal Bensaadon and Brian Exelbert - discuss founding Wings For Wishes - a chicken wing competition and premiere block party in its' 10th year.

They also talk about what's in store for this years' event and how they've turned their passion into granting hundreds of wishes for children throughout their communities.

Your generous support transforms lives, one wish at a time. Join us at our events today at https://wish.org/sfla/our-events!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit...

It's been 1 Year of World of Wishes!​

In Episode 24 of World Of Wishes, we’re calling back to our first episode and sitting down with our chapter’s President & CEO, Norm Wedderburn.​ He discussed the state of our chapter - Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, running a non-profit in today's world, the opening of the Finker-Frenkel Wish House in Miami (coming soon!), and much more.

Thank you for supporting this podcast by listening, rating, & reviewing!

Find out how YOU can become a volunteer for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida at https://wish.org/sfla/volunteer

To make...

In Episode 23 of World of Wishes, Wish Granter and Volunteer - Shelby Ruebens, talks about her decade-long tenure of volunteering for Make-A-Wish where she has granted over 125 wishes! Listen now to hear stories on her favorite wishes and her perspective on how wishes are so powerful and long-lasting for the children that receive them.

Learn about how YOU can make wishes come true like Shelby at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes...

"I was blown away by the entire experience." - Tajhira Omphroy

In episode 22 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Tajhira Omphroy, who wished to meet Miami Dolphins legendary quarter-back Dan Marino in 1994, spoke about how her wish helped get her through some dark days following her transplant.

Tajhira's entire family joined her for her wish and she explains how that enhanced the entire experience for her.

To make a donation that impacts a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

"It [my wish] was a push in life that I needed, being so sad and depressed of being so sick, to tell me - I have a purpose in life, I'm meant to do this just like he is, and I'm going to do it because I have somebody behind me in my corner telling me 'you got this!' and 'you're gonna make it happen.'"

In episode 21 of World of Wishes, Wish Alum Jill Sharkey - who wished to meet celebrity make-up artist Gregory Arlt, spoke about going from competitive gymnastics to difficult medical challenges...

In Episode 20 of World of Wishes - Wish Dad, volunteer, and Wish Granter - Joel Nagelbush, whose son Justin wished to meet Spiderman at Disney World many years ago, talked about how the wish created a spark to do more.

In the year since - Joel has helped grant dozens of wishes that created memories for wish kids and their families that they'll remember forever!

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Justin at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow...

"Whether you're in the hospital or not, the news still comes on in the morning, the ocean is still rolling, and the sun still rises. Once I realized that things keep going in nature and things keep going on in the world - The world doesn't stop for you, you have to keep going."

In episode 19 of World of Wishes, Wish Alumnus Neeley Heilman spoke about her wish back in 2019 to go to Amsterdam and photograph tulips! Now 19 and in her sophomore year of college, she reflects on being the third child to receive a wish in...

September 30th, 2023 is #InternationalPodcastDay!

Thank you for supporting the World of Wishes Podcast and listening to the amazing stories of wishes from the perspectives of wish alumni, parents, medical professionals, and more.

In episode 18 of World of Wishes, Wish Alumnus Megan Taylor, spoke about her week-long wish to go to California for the Ocean's 11 Premiere back in 2005. She reflected on how her wish strengthened her family bond and gave her a new perspective on life.

To make a donation that impacts a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us...

In Episode 17 of World of Wishes, Wish Dad and Wish Granter - Nick Kordenbrock, whose son Spencer received a custom themed golf cart back in 2019, spoke about how the golf cart helped improve the quality of life for his son and inspired him to become a wish granter!

He describes the amazing feeling of paying it forward to other wish families and getting to be a part of the wish experience.

Learn more about how YOU can become a wish granter and make wishes come true for children like Spencer at https://wish.org/sfla!<...

"It's more than just the wish...It's the hope that the wish brings."

In celebration of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we are looking back on Wish Alumnus, Remi Storch, who wished to go to Walt Disney World® back in 2005! Now 25 and living in Tampa Bay, Remi reflects on her wish 18 years ago and how that changed her family's outlook on life.

To make a donation that impacts a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla o...

"This magical wish brought her back to life."

In Episode 15 of World of Wishes, Wish Mom, Mindy Brown talked about her daughter's wish in 1992 to go to Walt Disney World®. She discusses how being a Wish Granter for over 30 years with 200+ wishes granted is the most meaningful part of her life!

Learn more about how YOU can make magical wishes come true for wish kids like Sandy at https://wish.org/sfla.

Mindy is 1 of 500 Make-A-Wish volunteers in our local community, visit https://wish.org/sfla/volunteer to learn more about becoming a v...

"I remember every detail from start to finish [...] It was a day I'll never forget."

In the 14th episode of World of Wishes, former Wish Kid, Max Costanzo talked 15 years later about how meeting Miami Heat legend Dwayne Wade in 2008 had a significant impact on his life.

Dwyane Wade granted more than 30 wishes during his playing days with the Heat, making him one of our most requested local celebrities EVER!

The wishes were awesome, and we thank Dwyane and all of the celebrities who make time in their schedules to fulfill amazing wish...

In Episode 13 of World of Wishes, Advisory Board Member for Tampa Bay and Wish Granter - Amanda Beauvais, spoke about her volunteer experience at Make-A-Wish since 2015 and how being a Wish Granter brings her joy.

Learn about how YOU can make wishes come true like Amanda at https://wish.org/sfla!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to...

In Episode 12 of World of Wishes, Wish Mom - Stephanie LeDuff, whose daughter Libbi went to Walt Disney World® earlier this year, spoke about how Libbi's wish was a victory lap for her family and for her daughter who overcame tough battles with Wilms Tumor. Stephanie also talked about their experience at Give Kids The World Village® and how Libbi's reactions are "locked in her forever!"

Learn more about how YOU can make magical wishes come true for wish kids like Libby at https://wish.org/sfla!

Check out photos from Libbi's wish at https://wo...

In Episode 11 of World of Wishes, Kelley McCarthy - Pediatric Oncology Nurse and Make-A-Wish Volunteer, talked about how rewarding the Wish Granting experience is for her personally, and how professionally she can truly see the impact that the wishes have on Wish Kids before/after their wish comes true.

Learn more about how YOU can refer a child today at https://wish.org/refer-a-child.

Kelley is 1 of 500 Make-A-Wish volunteers in our local community, visit https://wish.org/sfla/volunteer to learn more about becoming a volunteer!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on...

"Wishes aren't just some vacation. They are victory laps. They are reaching the summit. It's the light at the end of the tunnel."

In the 10th episode of World of Wishes, former Wish Kid, Robert Sanchez talked about how his Greek Isles Cruise in 2018 brought his family closer together and provided them the feeling of conquering a milestone in his life.

See photos from Robert's wish here!

Donate your unused airline miles today through Wishes in Flight® at https://wish.org/sfla/airline-mile-donation

To learn more about us as a chapter, v...

"No matter what is going on in my head to want to do, no matter how crazy it seems to the outside world, I met Cher. How much more crazy do you get than that?"

To commemorate Cher's birthday on May 20, 2023, Episode 9 of World of Wishes features former Wish Kid, Katarina Alshaier who talked about how meeting Cher backstage at a concert in 2004 helped her overcome her fears and nerves.

Check out photos of Katarina and Cher here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

...

“The wish helped her find joy for the first time ever in her life. It taught us as parents to find joy in everything - it’s just so powerful.”

In Episode 8 of World of Wishes, Jill Heilman talked about her experience as a Wish Mom of 3 Wish Kids - Hallie, Ben, and Neeley. She spoke about how wishes are rejuvenating for the entire family and gives them a break from their medical world that they deserve so badly.

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

Check out th...

"It [my wish] made me realize now I have this huge life ahead of me and it's hard to put into words."

In Episode 7 of World of Wishes, former Wish Kid, Marina Armas talked about how her "live life like you stole it" motto was incorporated into her wish and how it set the tone for the rest of her life.

Donate your unused airline miles today through Wishes in Flight® at https://wish.org/sfla/airline-mile-donation

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

Be s...

In Episode 6 of World of Wishes, Dr. J. Blaine John - Director of Pediatric and Fetal Cardiology at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital, talked about the importance of a wish in a child's journey of medical healing.

Learn more about how YOU can refer a child today at https://wish.org/refer-a-child.

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish...

In Episode 5 of World of Wishes, Lily O'Dare - former Wish Kid, talked about how her wish inspired her career path, her cancer journey as an older teen, and what it was like going to New York City to meet Claire Robinson on the Food Network in 2009.

To make a donation to impact a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla.

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to...

In Episode 4 of World of Wishes, Devon Vickers - former Wish Kid, talked about her cancer journey, the wish experience, the longevity of Make-A-Wish, and what it was like going to New York City to meet the former President of the United States in 2003.

To make a donation to impact a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes...

In Episode 3 of World of Wishes, Chris Alegria - former Wish Kid, talked candidly about his journey, favorite moments from his wish, the life-changing impact of Make-A-Wish, being cancer free for 5 years, and how it gave him the confidence to deal with all types of adversity. He received his wish in 2017 to attend the world premiere of Star Wars: The Last Jedi!

To make a donation to impact a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on...

In Episode 2 of World of Wishes, Cynthia Lau - former Wish Kid, described what her life was like at the time dealing with cancer as a teenager and how her wish gave her confidence and smile back.

To make a donation to impact a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit https://wish.org/sfla

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents...

In Episode 1 of World Of Wishes, Norm Wedderburn - our chapter's President & CEO, discussed his personal background, the state of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, why he's so passionate about granting wishes, the opening of the Finker-Frenkel Wish House in Miami, the future of our chapter, and much more!

Find out how YOU can become a volunteer for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida at https://wish.org/sfla/volunteer

To make a donation to impact a child's life, click here!

To learn more about us as a chapter, visit us at https://wish.org/sfla

...

Welcome to the World of Wishes, a podcast series where you will find information about what’s happening at Make-A-Wish Southern Florida and take inspiration from the life-changing wishes we grant for courageous children with critical illnesses. Future episodes will feature wish kids and parents past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!

Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.