The Geelong sister of the first child granted a wish by Make-A-Wish Australia has spoken out on the 35th anniversary of the not-for-profit foundation.
Naomi Cleland’s older brother Shawn was 16-years-old when the foundation granted his wish to fly to Sydney and watch his beloved Bulldogs take on the Swans in 1986.
“It would have been a huge benefit for mum and dad, for Shawn to get flown away for Make-A-Wish,” Ms Cleland said.
“Also, just the excitement that it gave to him to actually go away.
“Not so much when I was younger, but more so as I’ve gotten older, you start to appreciate what Make-A-Wish actually do.“
Unfortunately the Bulldogs lost by 76 points, but it was still a very special day for Shawn, Ms Clelend said.
Shawn was born with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle degeneration and weakness, with most affected only living into their 20s.
Due to his condition, Shawn spent most of his life in a wheelchair and in hospital.
In honour of her brother, Ms Cleland has joined the ’Wish Force’, Make-A-Wish Australia’s team of volunteers to help other children and their families who are fighting serious illnesses.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Make-A-Wish Australia has more than 800 wishes in waiting.
Coinciding with the 35th anniversary, Make-A-Wish Australia’s ‘100 Wishes in 100 Days’ campaign is underway.
More than 6500 Australian children are diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses each year.
Make-A-Wish Australia receives no government funding.
For more information, visit www.makeawish.org.au
