Hello!
I am excited to be back on the trail for this year’s Make-A-Wish Trailblaze Challenge in Maine. In addition to the physical challenge, I have committed myself to raising $8500 which is the average cost of a wish for each eligible child with a critical illness. With everyone's support last year, we were able to cover the cost of a wish for a Maine child! Since I love a challenge, I am doing the hike again AND trying to raise even more this year!
When I worked as a pediatric oncology social worker at Maine Children's Cancer Program, I was able to see firsthand the truly incredible impact of a wish. The whole process is so powerful; from the moment we shared the opportunity of Make-A-Wish, the magic began. Then the dreaming starts about what their wish will be, offering hope and happiness while going through the emotional and physical rigors of treatment. Then when their wishes come true... it is simply and truly magical. It is hard to capture all the emotions in words, but the power is real.
I hope by challenging myself through this 23.4 mile hike and attempting to raise $8500 that together we can all help create a little more magic. Every hour of every day, on average, three children are diagnosed with a critical illness. Every one of these kids needs a wish to give them strength and help them heal. I’m fundraising so more deserving kids and their families can know the true happiness, relief, and the renewal that a wish can bring. And I am banding together with friends to hike it this year as well. Our hope is that our collective efforts and overlap of amazing friends will help us garner more support for Make a Wish!
These essential wishes are only possible because of supporters like you. Thank you for donating whatever you can, and that includes good energy, love and kindness! Together, we are transforming lives - One wish at a time!
Xo,
Chelsy
