Back in 1980, Make-A-Wish started with just one child, one family, and a single wish.
More than forty years later, the nonprofit continues to bring joy to children with critical illnesses,and right here in Kentucky, a 19-year collaboration with Keeneland helps bring those dreams to life.
Wish families recently met at Keeneland to celebrate everything this wonderful partnership has accomplished.
Linda Pauling joined the gathering. Her son, Chris Greicius, inspired the entire Make-A-Wish movement when he wished to become a police officer.
“We started Make-A-Wish in 1980.” Linda Pauling said.
She fondly remembered her son’s spirit. “He was. Angelic little boy. He had a very deep sense of right and wrong. And he just, he was a cop. He was a little kid cop, you know, but that’s what he wanted.” Pauling said.
Watching Chris’s dream become reality motivated Pauling to pay that kindness forward to other families in need.
“After seeing Chris’s wish come true and seeing what it did for him and meant to him. And knowing what I felt and what it felt, I To be able to give that back. To another human being, another wish family, another child. Yes,” Pauling said.
Juli Miller, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana, highlighted the remarkable impact of the Keeneland alliance.
“It’s been going on for 19 years, $1.7 million raised, 170 wishes impacted through this incredible event.” Miller said.
For Kelly Dorman, the tale of Chris Greicius represents far more than simple history,it paved the way for his son, Cody, to receive his very own wish.
Following Cody’s passing in 2023, his family created a meaningful tribute to honor his life. Today, the Cody Dorman Legacy Fund actively assists other young children battling serious health conditions.
“We just really proud of him, of course we miss him every single day. I know he would be proud of what we’re doing and just trying to continue.” Kelly said.