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“I wish to have a shopping spree”
Claudia, age 10
Wish Adopted by: Tokarchik Family
Claudia is a bright-eyed girl whose favorite colors are pink and purple. A specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital reached out to us as Claudia was undergoing treatment for acute lymphoid leukemia.
Claudia met with her Volunteer Wish Granters and described how she so enjoyed watching movies, listening to music, and playing games with her two older brothers, Jenisis and Alfredo.
Soon thereafter, the Wish Granters swung into action, and the magic began… starting with a shiny limousine ride to Plaza Bonita mall for Claudia’s wish.
When she pulled up, she was amazed that the mall marquee read “Welcome Claudia for your special shopping day!”
Claudia’s smile grew: she started to see how different this day would be, she had never gone shopping before while wearing a pink feather boa. Leading up to her wish, she had thought about what she most wanted to buy: a laptop and an iPod, which would help her pass the time while undergoing treatment; a camera, a printer and a TV. She also wanted a nice dress for her first communion at church. And some games to play….
Claudia stopped first at JC Penney, where her personal shopper Richard was waiting at the entrance wearing a tuxedo and holding a big welcome sign, a beautiful gift basket, and a tiara for Claudia to wear. There, she picked out a beautiful new dress.
At Best Buy and Target, Claudia was greeted with flowers and balloons…. Her color choice for her iPod? Purple, of course! Also a princess computer game (just for her) and some games to play with her brothers.
Afterwards, she and her family enjoyed lunch at Pat & Oscars, and her waiting limousine then took them all back home…..
This very special day gave Claudia and her family the chance to step away for a little while from the treatments, hospital visits and stresses that come with having a serious illness. They all enjoyed themselves and had fun. Especially Claudia, who enjoyed being a “princess for a day.”