Celebrating 200 wishes... - Make-A-Wish Foundation

ISSUE 11 August 2007
Celebrating 200 wishes...
Featuring:
Fun Fundraising Events
Wish Stories
Upcoming Volunteers
Party
and MUCH MORE!!!

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
190 Clemenceau Avenue
#07-02 Singapore Shopping Centre
Singapore 239924
Tel: 6334 9474
Fax: 6334 4750
Email: info@makeawish.org.sg
Board of Directors:
Keith YC Goh, Chairman
Tan Chi Chiu, Vice Chairman
Jean De Souza, Treasurer
Ronald Ong
Richard Yong
Tan Kok Quan
Davy Lau
Newsletter Contributors:
Annabelle Josef
Clifford Goh
David Seow
Debbie Seah
Debra Devied
Erin Gill
Gladys Ng
Girmy Pak
Joseph A Sogan
Koh Tien-Gui
Mainak Dhar
Michele Chandiramani
Nuraliza Osman
Pearlyn-Anne Tan
Sally Nakajima
Soma Subramaniam
Tay Tsen-waye
Tho Pei Leng
Make-A-Wish Foundation ® Singapore is part of a global
organisation which began in 1980. The inspiration for our
mission: - ‘To grant wishes to children with life-threatening
illnesses’ came from one very brave 7 year old boy who lived in
Phoenix, Arizona. Chris Grecius had leukaemia and his greatest
wish was to become a policeman. So, his friends, family and
community rallied around to make his dream come true; they
had a police uniform tailor-made for him, organised a ride in
a police helicopter and had the full VIP treatment as he was
presented with his police badge. He experienced such joy and
was clearly delighted to have achieved his ambition despite his
illness.
Sadly, Chris passed away a few days
later but everyone was so touched
by the experience that they vowed
his legacy would live on. Now, more
than 144,000 wishes have been
granted worldwide and many brave
children have experienced the power
of a wish.
It is our goal to reach every medically
eligible child in Singapore and to
make their wishes come true, we
need you!
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Cover Photograph by JJ
“Wish Child Kieran”
Designed and produced by
MICA (P) 321/06/2005
Opinions expressed in this magazine
are solely those of the writers and do
not necessarily represent those of the
Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Leadership Message
Sponsors and Supporters
5 th Annual Golf Tournament
Scandinavians bring Bollywood to Singapore
Disney On Ice
British Club Fun Family Day
Aizat’s Wish
Clement’s Wish
Hidir’s Wish
Jia Ming’s Wish
Ian’s Wish
Kieran’s Wish
Joseph’s Wish
Xin Yi’s Wish
Recent Events
Wish Children-Art Session
Volunteers Page
Messages from the Wish Families

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
Leadership Message
ast month, I attended the Make-A-Wish International
Annual Conference which was held in Phoenix, Arizona,
the “birth-place” of Make-A-Wish. On the fi rst day of the
conference, Linda Pauling, the mother of the fi rst wish child,
Chris, delivered the opening speech. Even though more
than 25 years have passed since that fi rst wish, hearing her
tell Chris’ story again still touched the hearts of all of us
who were there, and there were very few dry eyes in the
audience by the time she fi nished.
Certain things are just timeless, although there may be geographical distances or
cultural differences, the themes of childhood, happiness and hope are universally
understood by everyone and that’s what makes the mission of Make-A-Wish so
compelling.
As the fi rst half of 2007 passes, I am happy to report on the fund-raising front, we
were the benefi ciaries of the opening night performance of the glamorous British
Theatre Playhouse comedy “Relatively Speaking”, where more than $30,000 was
raised. Our signature event, the annual Make-A-Wish Charity Golf Tournament
was held at Sentosa Golf Club on 1st June, and was most successful with a record
amount of funds ($200,000) raised. More importantly, many friendships were
renewed amongst our corporate and individual supporters, and new people
introduced to the Make-A-Wish mission-philosophy.
Recently, we surpassed 200 wishes granted in Singapore, and much credit and
appreciation should go to the volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to bring
cheer to these special children. We continue to receive many new referrals every
month and hope that you will help us spread the word around so that we can
reach out to more children in Singapore.
Keith Goh,
Chairman of the Board
1 August 2007
1

Sponsors and Supporters
RELATIVELY SPEAKING
CHARITY GALA DINNER-THEATRE
On the 2nd of May 2007, the British Theatre Playhouse
together with the Association of Women Doctors joined
together to present a glamorous charity gala dinner-theatre
night to raise funds in aid of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
St Patrick’s Society
shows us how it’s done the Irish way…
Of all the Charity Balls organised in Singapore,
the St Patrick’s Society gave one of the best – lots
of Irish Dancing displays by school kids, fabulous
auction pieces and a great dinner and dance. The
guests were glamorously dressed and everyone had
big smiles that said “What a marvellous event!”
Thanks to an electric atmosphere and plenty
of encouragement from the emcee, the Society
raised over $70,000 for the Foundation. Nearly
half of those proceeds came from individuals who
contributed to our ‘Adopt-A-Wish’ programme
and Silent Auction that was conducted during the
event. We were honoured when Jacquie Hourihane,
president of the St Patrick’s Society presented
Make-A-Wish with the fabulous cheque at the
Irish embassy.
This is a great achievement in helping more people
to ‘Share the Power of a Wish’. We would like to
thank all the committee for their outstanding
commitment in promoting our organisation and
also extend our gratitude to the sponsors of the
event; the guests and everyone who helped make
it such a success.
“Relatively Speaking”, a comedy by renowned British
playwright, Alan Ayckbourn, was the performance of the
evening and played to a sold out audience. Staged at the
Jubilee Hall in the prestigious Raffles Hotel, it was a night
of glitz, delicate cuisine, fine wine and plenty of laughter.
Ticket sale donations amounted to a remarkable SGD$
11,455 while proceeds from a silent auction, wine sale
and a generous donation from the Lee Foundation totaled
SGD$ 21,929. A special mention also goes out to the many
supporters of the event including The Peak magazine,
Molton Brown, Bimbadgen Estate Wines and Cadbury.
Thanks to the encouragement and kind contributions
from various individuals, groups and corporations, the
evening was a smashing hit for a truly worthy cause!
2

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
5 th Annual
eing one of Make-A-Wish’s annual fundraising events, the golf tournament
brings with it much excitement and anticipation for everyone. Each year
the golf tournament becomes bigger and more exciting and this year was
no exception. The tournament was held on 1 June 2007 at the prestigious
Sentosa Golf Club.
Guest of Honour, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community
Development, Youth and Sports, graced the event and helped to present
trophies for the tournament winners.
In true Make-A-Wish spirit, we added special magic to enhance our golfers’
experience. They were treated to delicious Morton Steak sandwiches
prepared on site by the chefs from Mortons, cold beer, red bull & 100+.
Additionally there were also prizes to be won on the course, a Lexus Car,
a Harley Davidson bike, Golf Bag with clubs and a chance to play in the
Senior’s Masters Tournament.
GOH-Dr Vivian Balakrishnan,
Minister for MCYS
Our Wish Children
During the dinner segment, the golfers enjoyed
pre-dinner Martinis and lively entertainment
by a girl duo. They participated actively during
the live auction and had a chance to win 45
different lucky draw prizes such as Indochine
& Michelangelo’s Vouchers, Hotel room stay
packages and a Plasma TV.
Having volunteered in the previous 4 golf
tournaments in many different roles and
contributing in different ways, I am truly
appreciative of the fantastic support we
received from all the volunteers who worked tirelessly. I am ever so grateful
for without each & every dedicated golf volunteer,
“You know who you are!” We wouldn’t have achieved such a well run event
and raising an impressive $200,000! Many more wishes will be granted
because of this success!
Special thanks goes to our main sponsor, Morgan Stanley, for an incredible
5th year.
Volunteers with Keith Goh
Also to our gold sponsors ABN AMRO and NTUC Fairprice, our golfers and
all our generous and kind hearted sponsors who contributed their time,
skills, products and donations.
On behalf of Make-A-Wish, our wish children and their families, we thank
you all! See you in our next tournament!
Yours gratefully,
Debbie Seah
CEO
Kenneth Lau from ABN Amro
Avid Golfers
Winner of Funniest group Picture
Vip flight
3

Scandinavians bring Bollywood to Singapore
It was a night of Bollywood Glamour when the
Scandinavian Women’s Society held a fundraising dinner
in aid of raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The event was held at The Pines Cub on the 20th of April,
and had a successful turnout including guest appearances
by Miss Singapore World and Miss Singapore India.
Women draped in colorful saris and bejeweled sandals
helped set the mood for an evening of laughter and fun
amongst old and new found friends.
Guests were treated to cocktails on arrival and then a
taste of India for dinner, with an assortment of exotic
dishes. Raffle tickets were sold throughout the evening
with wonderful prizes up for grabs. The guests were
entertained by belly dancers and an adrenaline pumping
Traditional Indian dance with acrobatics.
The guests’ generosity and caring hearts helped raise
over $8000, which will go towards making a child’s
wish come true. It was an enchanted evening filled with
warmth and lasting memories created by people who
put their heart and soul into making dreams come true
for others.
Erin Gill
Volunteer Extraordinaire
A toast to Bollywood Glamour
&
Feld Entertainment
Singapore, March 19, 2007: The Walt Disney Company in Singapore
and Feld Entertainment took 50 people from 13 Make-A-Wish families
to the Disney-On-Ice “Finding Nemo” show at the Singapore Indoor
Stadium yesterday.
Take Families from Make-A-
“The Walt Disney Company has worked with Feld Entertainment for a
number of years and is pleased to bring special moments to the Wish
families. Through our outreach program, we seek to brighten the lives
of children and families and make their wishes a reality,” said Alannah
Goss, Executive Regional Director, Corporate Communications and
Outreach, The Walt Disney Company (Asia Pacific) Ltd.
“Our Wish children are awe inspiring. They suffer from many forms of
illnesses including brain cancer, leukemia and rare metabolic disorders.
Make-A-Wish® gives them a chance to put their illness aside for a day.
A wish granted brings them joy, hope and a renewed will to go on.”
4

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
British Club Fun Family Day – 20 July 2007
It was a wonderful warm summer’s day on
Sunday 20 May at Bukit Tinggi, home of
the British Club Singapore. Make-A-Wish
Foundation® had been cordially invited to
be a part of their exciting repertoire of Asian
activities for the Club’s Family Day. This
year’s theme was ‘Everything Asian’.
Over 25 volunteers were involved with
the Make-A-Wish booth featuring balloon
sculpting, face painting, Asian art paper
cutting, hair styling and match the colours
game. It was wonderful opportunity for
us to meet and bond with the members
of the British club. They have been ardent
supporters of the Foundation and have
helped contribute to making many wishes
come true.
The family day was filled with many
wonderful stalls & activities. There were
performances to depict almost every
Asian race and a highlight of that was
the audience participation. Our very own
volunteer Erin took part in one such activity
“belly dancing”. The family day came to
a crescendo with the lion dance troupe
performing acrobatic stunts to the beat of
24 different drums.
The continued adoption of Make-A-Wish by
The British Club is a cherished priviledge. We
are deeply grateful to the generosity of the
members and the wonderful support from
the team. Thank you for the contribution
made on 6 February for the amount of
$10,934.50 towards the Foundation’s
operating costs.
Wish ® Singapore on a “Finding Nemo” Disney-On-Ice Adventure
“We are greatly appreciative of the support rendered by Disney
and Feld to bring smiles and happiness to our Wish Children and
their families.”
The Walt Disney Company is dedicated to making the wishes of
families and children a reality through public service initiatives,
community outreach and volunteerism in the areas of compassion,
learning, the arts and the environment. Through its community
outreach programs, Disney brightens the lives of children and
families through its many partnerships.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation and Disney began a relationship
in 1980, when Disney helped the newly formed charity grant its
first wish.
The Foundation’s mission reflects the life-changing impact that
the experience of a wish has on children, families, referral sources,
donors, sponsors, and entire communities. It is the Foundation’s
goal to reach every medically eligible child in Singapore and
provide them with a bit of hope, strength and joy.
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AIZAT’S WISH -SUN, SEA & PS3!
Our group set out in the early morn,
The only goal to have some fun,
For Aizat’s wish lay ahead of us,
Bringing a smile even to the Sun.
Aizat was the king of the world,
His domain stretched far below,
And standing in the Sky Tower,
He was treated to an unforgettable show.
Off we sped to Sentosa’s Underwater World,
Stopping intrigued by a mysterious fin,
We jumped right in behind Aizat,
Wanting to explore fishy mysteries within.
The first thing to greet us,
Were Stingrays and very small fish,
Aizat extended a hand of friendship,
Wanting to spread the joy of his wish.
Everyone screamed in horror,
Thinking Aizat was shark food,
But the shark had come to say hello,
Aizat’s smile lightening even his mood.
Aizat’s broad smile said it all,
Though he wished we didn’t leave so soon,
But we had a new adventure waiting,
In the waters of the Dolphin Lagoon.
The dolphins flipped for Aizat,
The air filled with joyful screams,
But Aizat seemed not to notice,
So lost was he in his ice cream!
The dolphin waved her flippers,
And a smile lit up her face,
As Aizat petted her back,
Just before we left the place.
We chanced upon a table full of hot pizzas,
After watching dolphins playing in the pool,
We jumped in with relish and devoured them,
For we had begun to drool.
We descended back to Earth,
Looking forward to walking on the street,
But Aizat had other plans in store,
That would sweep us off our feet!
Aizat’s family soared like eagles,
Far above the treetops below,
Even his Mom’s fear gave way to smiles,
As she enjoyed the Sky Ride’s show.
Back home, Aizat would fly new flights,
To faraway lands in his dreams,
For he had a new model Jumbo Jet,
Whose engines we could hear scream.
Then came the main attraction,
As drums began to roll,
Puja and Grace waved a magic wand,
And a PS3 was suddenly found!
Aizat could barely contain his joy,
As he contemplated hours of gaming ahead,
Mainak was just supposed to set it up,
But thoughts of gaming also entered his
head.
Hours of gaming beckoned,
Aizat taking his racer for a spin,
His wish day was coming to an end,
But the fun was just about to begin!
This wish was made possible through
the kind referral by Aaqilah Latiff from
the Children’s Cancer Foundation.
WISH
GRANTERS
Puja and Grace
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Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
Wish Stories
WISH
GRANTERS
Sabina Stehr and David Seow
CLEMENT’S WISH
-All things X-box & Pokemon
Twelve year old Clement was rather shy when we arrived for our
first home visit. After a little coaxing he admitted that more school
work and homework would not be his greatest wish, but an X-
Box. His other passion, he confessed, was all things Pokemon. The
cheerful cherubic lad then showed us his collection of Pokemon
VCDS which were all stacked neatly by the TV. So with that in
mind, we planned to get him his desired X-Box.
An X-Box party was planned with a top of the line X-Box 360 and
McDonalds, Coke and Ice cream as the delectable menu for the party.
The day finally rolled around and Clement was busy speeding around in his wheelchair, anxious to get on
with the party, but shy at the same time that all the attention was being focused on him.
When he saw the carefully wrapped gift box, he knew exactly what it was, but was too shy to open it.
Instead he wanted to start things off with a full stomach and he filled himself with McDonald goodies. His
guests seemed excited to be invited over for their first X-Box party and were busy chatting away as they
ate.
Finally, Clement wheeled himself over to the gift wrapped box and with the help of his two younger sisters,
peeled away the wrapping to reveal his X-Box 360 and included games. Clement watched anxiously as his
family members set up his new game area.
Clement, was off and away, totally focused on the game at hand, completely engrossed in his new X-Box,
so much so that his sister and cousins had to wait their turn to play. We could tell that the X-Box truly
made his day and we’re glad that we were able to make his heartfelt wish come true.
Clement’s wish was kindly adopted by Mr Andre Loy
This wish was made possible through the kind referral by Teoh Li Li from the Asian Women’s Welfare
Association.
7

HIDIR’S WISH
WISH
GRANTERS
Michele & Olivia
Hidir moves into Top Gear with a laptop
Fast cars, soccer and racing are 15 year old Hidir’s secret
passion so, when a luxury convertible turned up at his
house he was thrilled to learn it was to take him on a
mystery trip. The soft-spoken teenager was all smiles
when his driver pulled up at the Hard Rock Café and he
was greeted with cheers from his family and friends.
Wish Granters Olivia and Michele had been planning
this party for some time and, knowing that he has a lot
of hobbies and interests they were full of ideas of how
to make it really special. They had learnt about his wish
during one of their visits discovering that, most of all
he yearned for a laptop computer of his own. His family
didn’t have one so he would go over to his friend’s house
to use the computer for schoolwork, games and sending
emails. He felt he didn’t know as much about computers
as his friends did and, with his own, he would be able to
learn a lot faster.
As the party moved into top gear, the gang chatted away
happily and tucked into the delicious food whilst Hidir
was presented with many gifts. He grinned as he received
a Manchester United t-shirt of his favourite player
(Cristiano Ronaldo) and a couple of books by his favourite
author. Then, as cameras clicked away there was much
clapping and excitement all round as a beaming Hidir
was presented with the laptop of his dreams. He even had
some computer games to get him started – he was over
the moon!
His family and friends were not forgotten and each of
them went home with a goody bag generously provided
by the Hard Rock Cafe. Our heartfelt thanks go to the
management and staff for their contributions and for
making the party a memorable event for Hidir.
Hidir’s wish was kindly
adopted by Burson
Marsteller.
This wish was made
possible through the
kind referral by Estelle
Lim from the Children’s
Cancer Foundation.
8

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
JIA MING’S
WISH
WISH
GRANTERS
Debbie and Ginny
Computer with a Puppy experience
When we first met Jia Ming, he was a shy and quiet boy.
We spent some time trying to coax him into telling us his
wish. It turned out that his desire was to have his own
desktop computer. We also found out that Jia Ming loves
dogs, but unfortunately, having a dog for him was not
advisable, due to his illness. Nonetheless, with that in
mind, we set out to make the wish delivery a memorable
one for him!
We roped in fellow volunteer Anne Yeo who has a lovely
Miniature Schnauzer named Dusty to help us. On the day
of the delivery of the wish, we surprised Jia Ming with a visit
from Dusty, Anne and her family! We ‘lured’ Jia Ming out of
the house so that we could set up the computer and hide
it with colourful Make-A-Wish balloons. After everything
was done, we promptly called Anne to bring Jia Ming and
his family up to the house. We led an unsuspecting Jia Ming
into his room with Dusty barking all the way. We opened
the door with a flourish and released all the balloons tied
up in front of the computer! It was a priceless moment to
see the stunned and delighted expression on Jia Ming’s
face. Jia Ming promptly tried out his new computer and
the games we downloaded for him.
After some time, Jia Ming could not resist the temptation
to play with Dusty again, how could he not with Dusty
running in and out of the room and barking for his
attention! Jia Ming was game to learn how to make Dusty
do a few tricks a few tricks from Anne and her husband,
Leon. It was obvious that Jia Ming and Dusty were very
much taken with each another.
Jia Ming and Dusty exchanged many hugs before Dusty
had to leave for home.
All in all, it was an unforgettable day for Jia Ming, Dusty
and all of us.
This wish was made possible through the kind referral by
Joylyn Ng from the Children’s Cancer Foundation.
9

Wish Stories
Ian’s wish is something that would touch anyone’s heart- this little boy
simply wanted to play and enjoy the things he was missing out on, as he
couldn’t go outside due to his treatment. So what if Ian couldn’t go out
to play in the Sun We made a whole magic world of play come to life
right inside his house!
The D-day was timed to be on his third birthday, and to plan this special
day we got the experts to help us out. Step2, a US company specializing
in children’s play sets, and DHL who sponsored the prompt shipment,
ensured that we had everything we needed to create a memorable
birthday party for Ian.
Right outside Ian’s house, a huge yellow wind puppet was gently swaying
in the wind- his smiling face and friendly wave inviting all to come and
join in sharing Ian’s joy.
IAN’S WISH FOR
a Playground in a house
Once you walked in the door, you’d have to watch out for Ian running
around the house, leading a procession of his friends, carrying a colourful
bunch of Make-A-Wish balloons. Looking around, you’d see a mini train
set, and it didn’t take much to imagine that you were on board with Ian
taking the ride of a lifetime. There was a play set with an indoor slide,
and no matter how old you were it was easy to get caught up in the kids’
enthusiasm as they climbed up the wall of the play set and careened
down the slide. For refreshments, there was a small kitchenette with lots
of little pots, pans and food items, and in case anyone wanted a break
from all the playing, there was even a min-spa set and pool!
What’s a birthday party without food and Ian’s was no exception. If
you’d worked up an appetite with all the playing and running, there was
a selection of Ian’s favourite foods and a very special cake, which he had
chosen himself- a unique Ladybug chocolate fudge and brownie cake,
compliments of The Patissier.
As you walk out of the party, the greatest gift you’ll be taking with you
would have been the one Ian has given you- the angelic smile on his
face.
Ian’s wish was kindly adopted at the St Patrick’s Ball on 10 March 07 and
Step 2 Ohio”
This wish was made possible through the kind referral by Joylyn Ng
from the Children’s Cancer Foundation.
10
Rajesh
and Soma
WISH
GRANTERS

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
WISH
GRANTERS
Jane & Nura
KIERAN Our 200 th Wish Child
It is rare that a child is as much an inspiration as Kieran
Brunkard. Kieran is no ordinary 5 year old. Not only does
he have the supreme powers of being able to name every
single character in the Thomas the Tank Engine and
Friends series, he also has the magnificent ability of being
able to charm the socks off any lady meeting him for the
first time. Our wish granters, Jane Mercer and Nuraliza
Osman, were not spared and truly learnt the value of
sharing a wish through Kieran’s honest and sincere joy
and gratitude.
When Kieran was first approached by our wish granters,
he stated quite matter of factly that he only had one wish
and that it was very important indeed. We listened intently
as he told us that he wished for a little sister! Fortunately
for our wish granters, Kieran had also set his sights on a
motorised wheelchair decorated with Thomas the Tank
motifs given his passion for all things involving Thomas
and his other locomotive friends. Kieran was growing up
quickly, and like other children his age, wanted to have the
freedom to move and play outdoors.
After a flurry of activity, the day finally came when Kieran
was granted his wish - a made to measure motorised
wheelchair decorated completely in Thomas the Train
designs. Kieran was decked head to toe in Thomas gear
so that he would fit right into his wish party that planned
around the same theme.
Kieran’s joy was apparent that day when he could not
stop smiling when he saw the party room decorated to
resemble a train station with train tracks and direction
signs. The cheer continued as the laughter rang through
the room when Kieran was surrounded by all of his school
mates and joined him in various games.
We witnessed first hand the power of a wish, when we saw
how the motorised wheelchair gave Kieran the freedom to
play with his friends whenever he wanted to.
Kieran’s wish also marked a milestone in Make-A-Wish
Singapore wish granting journey being the
200th wish granted in 5 years.
Kieran - from all the volunteers here
at Make-A-Wish, thank you for being
such a lovely child and for sharing
your wish with us. We will love
you always!
This wish has been kindly
adopted by Mr Kenneth Lai, Ms
Soh Eng Huey, Mr Ken Crawford,
Mr Ronald Ong and Ms Debbie
Seah.
This wish was made possible
through the kind referral by
Teo Lin Lin, Kieran’s parent.

Wish Stories
Jane
and Raymond
WISH
GRANTERS
JOSEPH’S WISH
Special 5-star wish Delivery
It was a normal day like any other, I woke up and after my
daily dialysis, did my daily chores. However, the difference
was today I was going to Four Seasons Hotel courtesy of
Make-A-Wish Foundation.
My wish granter, Jane did so well in keeping me in the dark
on why I was going to the hotel at 12 in the afternoon. I
had to work that day so, I changed into my uniform and
anxiously followed Jane in her car. On our way there, being
the busybody that I am, I tried to dig information from her
on where she’s taking me, but to no avail!
The moment we stepped into Four Seasons Hotel, I felt like
royalty, being greeted by men in dark suits, and 3 beautiful
ladies ushering us to the lift. The suspense during the lift
ride was killing me, not knowing what to expect, feeling
happy and scared at the same time. The moment the lift
doors opened my wish started to take form. There was a
smiling photographer taking pictures and I followed a man
in a very nice suit – who was he - into a room. Then there
was a loud “SURPRISE”!! I almost fainted at that moment.
I was totally overwhelmed by the cameras, my friends
and social worker(Ms Tey Lili), and there was a mini stove
with a chef beside it! There was also a round table sitting
6 and it was decorated beautifully with sparkling cutlery
and show plates. Cooking for my friends and parents was
certainly an unforgettable experience. I felt like a true blue
chef, especially when I was serving my parents.
that afternoon and all these words just could not explain
how I felt that day and how I’m still feeling today.
The laptop idea was initially suggested by my dad, but
since it was my wish my dad said I should make the final
decision. So after thinking about it for several days, I
finally decided to get a laptop mainly to use for school
and eventually for work, but a kid needs to play games
too right Furthermore, it’s something handy and can be
brought anywhere. I received a really wonderful laptop
which was very handy and light, and it has everything I
could ever want in a computer!
Last but most certainly not least was going to see Olivia
Newton John ‘live’ at the Singapore Indoor Stadium! I
brought my mum with me as my dad and 2 brothers do
not like oldies. But my mum and me adore old songs. It is a
little weird that an 18 year old guy like me could enjoy old
songs, but I love new songs too. So I get the best of both
worlds, haha!
On the whole I had a most beautiful experience all thanks
to MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION. It truly shows that in this
long dark tunnel that we go through there is always a
shimmering ray of hope! - Joseph
Specials thanks to Four Season Hotel Singapore for
sponsoring the wish party venue and creating the special
5-star chef’s experience for Joseph.
This wish has been kindly adopted by ABN Amro (Golf
Tournament 2007) & Four Seasons Hotel.
The whole session went really well and Channelnews Asia
did a short interview with me. I felt like a real movie star
This wish was made possible through the kind referral by
Tey Li Li from Shaw-NKF Children’s Kidney Centre.
12

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
Wish Stories
XIN YI’S WISH - Fly High into the Sky
WISH
GRANTERS
Clifford Goh
and Teo Ai Ling
flu after her chemco treatment. Being the tough cookie
that she is, Xin Yi fought the bug and recovered in time.
Our great adventure began when Ai Ling and I first visited
our wish-child’s home in Woodlands. Prior to the visit, her
mother told us that Xin Yi couldn’t wait to share her wish.
A sweet and playful 15 year old, Xin Yi’s face lit up when
she saw us. We soon discovered that this chatty girl had a
unique fascination for airplanes and enjoyed listening to
Indie music.
It was easy finding out what Xin Yi’s wish was. Whenever
fellow wishgranter Ai Ling asked her a question, the reply
came back quick as a flash. It wasn’t long before she
revealed her wish of owning a lightweight laptop. She also
told us that due to her condition, she was unable to visit
the Singapore Youth Flying Club (SYFC), where she was an
active member, for many months and missed her friends
very much. With these important information, Ai Ling
and I quickly set our plans to action.
First, we sought permission from SYFC to help fulfil Xin
Yi’s wish. I e-mailed to SYFC’s manager Mr. Beber and
anxiously waited for his reply. The very next morning I
received fantastic news from him. Not only did he give
the go-ahead, but he also offered the use of the Club’s
reception lounge, which we planned to decorate with an
assortment of model aircrafts to hold a workshop for Xin
Yi. It was certainly a sweet and encouraging start.
Ai Ling informed Xin Yi that her wish to visit the SYFC
was going to come true on Saturday, 7 April. However, our
plans almost had to be postponed when Xin Yi caught the
7 April finally arrived, and at 9 a.m. we brought some
presents and the most important gift of all, the laptop
to SYFC. No party would be complete without balloons,
and thanks to Pei Leng, there were 40 pink and white (Xin
Yi’s favourite colours) ones at the party. We released the
balloons in the lounge, and it looked as if the aircrafts were
gliding through the “clouds” of balloons. A sumptious
feast was also prepared for the guests’ enjoyment .
When Xin Yi’s family arrived at SYFC, everyone, including
her friends, instructor and the SYFC General Manager
welcomed Xin Yi at the entrance. There was pure joy and
excitement written all over Xin Yi’s face when she saw that
her family and friends had gathered to share this special
occasion with her.
Mr. Beber was the perfect host as he led Xin Yi to the
workshop, where more surprises were in store. All her
SYFC friends were there, and Xin Yi wasted no time
mingling and taking photos with them.
During the prize-giving ceremony, SYFC’s General
Manager Mr. Andy gave a short speech and presented Xin
Yi with a couple of presents from SYFC. The big moment
came when the laptop was presented to Xin Yi. She looked
so happy holding onto the laptop. And the icing on the
cake Xin Yi going to the hangar and watching the remote
aeroplanes and helicopters in action.
It was a truly memorable day for Xin Yi and everyone
involved in delivering the wish. Although, Xin Yi did
not get the chance to fly a plane, her high spirits were
sufficient to lift her off the ground and send her soaring
into the sky.
This wish was made possible through the kind referral by
Li NianLi from the Children’s Cancer Foundation.
13

Recent Events
We would like to thank our Wish Assist
Angels, our Make-A-Wish affiliates. They
have continuously provided us with such
wonderful support for our travel wishes. They have
shown commitment in creating fun and excitement for
the children when they are on their travel wish. They are
dedicated in ensuring that all logistics is well taken care
of when our children travel abroad.
Becky Nielsen from Make-A-Wish Australia
Wonderful Wish Assists Angels
Kitty & Heidi from Make-A-Wish Hong Kong
and Disneyland ambassadors
- We thank them for their continuous commitment
in providing fun & excitement for our children in
HongKong.
- Siti Nur Farhannah, Marliyyah, Xiao Meng
Tomoko from Make-A-Wish Japan and
Disneyland volunteer
- We thank her for her dedication and wonderful magical
touch to all our children’s travel wishes to Australia.
- Inshera, Deborah Choo, Kai Lin, Danish Rashid, Zuo Bin
- We thank her for her commitment in creating fun &
excitement for our children.
- Sara Tang, Debbie Lau
Bear Making Session & Marriott Vacation Club
aturday 19 May was a dream come, true for over 25 Wish Children. They were
invited by Marriott Vacation Club to a very special Bear Making Session. 30
volunteers from Marriott made their way to Suntec to meet with their assigned
Wish child. The Wish Children were excitedly waiting the moment they would
meet their very special furry friend. After a scrumptious spread at Suntec the
children were ushered to the Bear Delivery Room.
There each child together with a volunteer from Marriott Vacation Club sat
together & prepared to stuff their bear, place a special heart, weigh the bear and
give them a name to celebrate its birth. The room was buzzing with much activity
and laughter, from the children & volunteers. Even the parents who accompanied
their Wish children were filled with immense joy seeing the smiles on their little
ones.
All the Wish Children were extremely elated when Marriott Vacation club bought
each child a special outfit for their newly born bear. Bear & Co who graciously
organised the bear making session donated proceeds from the sale of the
outfits.
Marriott Vacation Club also helped to celebrate a special birthday to one of the
Wish Child whose birthday happened to fall on that day.
Back in the home office of Marriott Vacation Club, employees raised $2,252
through a pledge card for Make-A-Wish®. A big thank you goes out to Marriott
Vacation Club & Bear & Co for a wonderful afternoon, helping to make memories
and raising the spirits of the Wish Children & their family.
14

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
As a child, I never drew well.
Wish Children-Art Session
I think I only ever participated
in one drawing competition and
although I thought I captured
what I was supposed to draw. I was
the only one that thought so. The
end result, for all my proud efforts,
I didn’t win any prizes. I naturally
recalled leaving the competition
disappointed, wondering why
the winning piece won (and mine
didn’t) and resigned myself to the
fact that I would never be able to
draw well.
I’ll fast forward to the Hyatt almost three decades later.
How life brings you back one full circle and dreams
become reality.
I conducted an Art session for twenty Wish Children. I
began the session by giving each child a choice of either
drawing a fruit or flower. I also taught them the basics of
drawing with my favourite medium the humble crayon.
With crayons, one can mess about and not go too far
wrong with any drawing. You just simply colour over
any mistakes or from that mess, create something new
altogether.
It was a joy to see the children all take to their
tasks with enthusiasm and laughter. Each of them shone
in their determination and grit to complete their tasks in
the short afternoon at Hyatt’s Eco-garden. Of all of them
I would like to believe that I had the best time, together
with my friends, in coaxing from each child, the magic of
their imagination.
I would like to suggest that drawings represent the child’s
experience of the world. Children use drawings to test
and stabilize their feelings, to think and explore their
surroundings.
Art & Drawings plays an important part in facilitating
learning and going beyond your sphere of experience.
I believe that if children aren’t taught to draw, their
creativity will disappear overtime and I hope I succeeded
in igniting in at least some of the children, a passion for
drawing. I am grateful for Make-A-Wish and my friends
who came along to help, for a wonderful afternoon.
Special Thanks goes to Hyatt’s FORCE volunteers for
their support and allowing us
the use of Hyatt’s ECO-garden
and providing the children
with delicious refreshments.
Generous individuals also
contributed by providing a
special Art goodie bag for each
child.
Koh Tien-Gui
Volunteer Artist
15

Volunteers Page
hat an eventful evening we had on 4 July when Iain
Ewing shared with us tips on how to present and grab the
media’s attention with our stories. The purpose of the
session was to share with the volunteers on how to handle
the media (including TV and the Press).
Very often our wish granters & volunteers either at Wish
Parties or at Make-A-Wish events comes face to face with
the media. They are spokespersons for the Foundation
and it’s important to equip them with skills & knowledge
to aid them in specific media situations.
This session ensured us that both staff and volunteers
will be prepared to maximize such opportunities and be
better able to handle any unexpected “ambush interview”
in a fast-breaking news situation.
Volunteers Media Session Training
Each participant was awarded with a certificate, courtesy
of Iain himself. It was a really nice memento for us to keep
after the sweat we shed in coming up with majestic ideas
of turning a generic story into an exciting one.
I thought the team exercises were a great way for people
within the group to share their different thoughts and
ideas and also found it interesting how varied everyone’s
thought process is. It’s a great thing that the Foundation
has so many passionate volunteers who all bring a special
piece of magic to the overall Wish Process.
I found the evening to be full of interesting information
and will definitely use it to my advantage in the future in
helping out Make- A-Wish. For me especially being new
in the country and trying to settle in, its evenings like this,
meeting new found and known friends that warms my
heart, and helps that transition into a new life here all the
more easier.“ – ‘Erin Gill’
“It was a great ‘mind opener’ to
the world of media and I found
the group exercises on how
to help Make-A-Wish stories
make headlines & increase our
awareness especially useful.”
– Debbie Seah.
www.ewingcomm.com
Volunteers Sushi Party
Moshimoshi!!
To celebrate the recent success of the golf tournament, volunteers
who were pivotal to this were invited for a special sushi party.
The evening was set aside to congratulate the hard work that
the volunteers had put in at the tournament. It started out as an
evening of food & drinks but turned into a night of roaring good time for all. Volunteers were divided into 2 groups and each
group had to win points for the respective group. We played taboo and other table games that had the volunteers making
funny faces at each other. The highlight of the evening most definitely was the fashion walk, where brave members of the
group who came dressed to the Japanese theme did for the rest of us. In my books of fun & laughter, the volunteer’s sushi party
will definitely be one of my most memorable evenings.
16

Make-A-Wish Foundation ® (Singapore) Ltd
Messages from Wish Families
Many
Blessings to Make-A-Wish Foundation ® for the
wonderful job in making children’s dreams come
true and for making them very happy. Adam’s
wish granters were very nice and very caring.
Our whole family had one of the best times of
our lives, especially Adam. He was so happy and
contented going on this trip. He really enjoyed
the buffet breakfast at Grand Hyatt. More power
to Make-A-Wish Foundation and please continue
the great work. God Bless!
Adam’s Mother
The wish arrangements were well coordinated
and arranged. The delivery of the laptop was
well timed, just before Qi Fang was to attend
treatments in the hospital. The Wish granters
& social worker was so helpful and kind. My
daughter felt really comfortable and was very
touched by the arrangements in helping to make
her wish come true.
Qi Fang’s Mother
I will like to take this opportunity to show my gratitude
towards the Foundation. Especially to Mainak, Puja
and Grace who did so much for us on our Sentosa
Wish trip. The trip to Sentosa felt like a once in a
life-time experience. We had such a wonderful time
on the sky tower & sky ride. This will be a sweet and
unforgettable day for us. The memories of this day
will always play on our minds. Once again thank you to
the Wish Granters & Foundation.
Aizat’s Mother
All funds raised are used to fulfil the
Foundation’s mission in Singapore.
For all cheque donations, please
make payable to
Make-A-Wish Foundation (S) Ltd.
For all donations, we can issue a
tax exempt receipt, please include
your name, address and NRIC/FIN
number.
17

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