Kevin

Highlights from "Bouquet of Wishes 2006" Our Annual Spring Dinner Event

"Bouquet of Wishes" was an evening of fantastic prizes, an enjoyable dinner and strong community support.  Once again our committee of volunteers were dedicated, beginning preparation for this event months ago.  The results were a huge success!

The most memorable moments of the evening were our special guest speakers.  Rafaello (right), age 5, brought the house down with his humourous and detailed story of his wish trip to Hawaii.  Merilee (right), age 17, spoke about her moving experience of having a life-threatening illness and the new found support of people around her.  Marissa (left), age 9, was acknowledged for her artistic talent.  Her beautiful bouquet drawing was the artwork used for this year's invitation and program. 

Ed Crane, (left), of WCBS told his story of being a wish Dad.  Ed has graciously been our emcee and auctioneer for the live auctions at many Make-A-Wish events.  We extend our deepest thanks to Ed and his dedicated support.

Just before the evening's dinner was served, Make-A-Wish took the opportunity to thank our generous sponsors and loyal donors.  Seen below are a few moments of thanks given to these special contributors.

The fabulous evening closed with the drawing of the winning raffle ticket for a new 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe.  The lucky winner was Jane Brady from Commack.  Jane Brady is shown proudly in the driver's seat of her new vehicle surrounded by her grandchildren!  Congratulations, Jane!  The Santa Fe was generously donated by Atlantic Auto Mall and Hyundai of West Islip.  Proceeds from the car raffle helped grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions in Suffolk County such as:

• Kendall, age 3, from Selden, who wished to go to Disney.

• Lauren, age 18, from Nesconset, who wished to go on a shopping spree.

• Christina, age 4, who wished to go to Disney.

• Kailey, age 6, from Patchogue, who wished to go to Turks & Caicos.

Karine Hollander, President & CEO of the Suffolk Chapter, said, "The generous support from Atlantic Auto Mall and our local community have given these children the power to dream."