Couple makes more wishes come true

By Kimber Westphall

Make-A-Wish North Texas announced a significant $1 million commitment from The Chismark Family Foundation in support of the organization’s mission and its “Two Years, Too Long” campaign, an initiative focused on reducing the growing wait for wishes for North Texas children facing critical illnesses.

The commitment was unveiled June 27 during a large Make-A-Wish North Texas alumni and campaign launch celebration at Lincoln Centre Park. The event welcomed nearly 500 guests, including wish alumni and families, volunteers, donors, board members, community leaders and supporters for a morning centered on hope, impact and the future of wish granting in North Texas.

The family-friendly celebration featured music, games, food and interactive experiences, with the organization’s Iron Wish Tree serving as a central visual tribute honoring wishes already granted while symbolizing those still waiting to come true.

“Chelsea and I support Make-A-Wish because every child deserves moments of hope, joy, and possibility, especially during the hardest seasons of life,” said Ryan Chismark. “As parents, this mission is deeply personal to us. We’ve seen firsthand how a wish can bring strength not only to a child, but to an entire family. We also believe businesses and community leaders have a responsibility to step up and create meaningful impact now, not someday. We hope this gift not only helps grant more wishes for children and families who need hope today but also inspires other young professionals and business leaders to realize they can make a meaningful difference right now.”

More than 1,100 children across North Texas are waiting for wishes, with some families facing delays of more than two years based on current funding levels.

 Make-A-Wish North Texas launched the “Two Years, Too Long” campaign to rally community support around shortening that timeline.

Research continues to show that wishes can have a meaningful impact on a child’s emotional and physical well-being during treatment, while also strengthening families and creating lasting moments of encouragement during incredibly difficult circumstances.

Each year, more than 1,150 children in North Texas are newly diagnosed with critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish North Texas continues working toward a future where every eligible child can experience the power of a wish without delay.

To learn more, visit wish.org/ntx.