This summer, Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley is working to grant 80 wishes for local children facing critical illnesses. Every wish brings hope, joy, and unforgettable moments for children and their families – reminding them that even during the hardest times, they are not alone.
For many children battling serious illnesses, there is no summer break from hospital visits, treatments, and uncertainty. A wish provides a chance to dream, reconnect, and experience the simple joy of being a kid again.
Through the “Summer of Wishes” campaign, Make-A-Wish CVS is bringing life-changing experiences to children across our region – from dream adventures to meaningful moments close to home. These wishes are made possible because of the generosity of local donors, families, businesses, civic organizations, foundations, and volunteers who believe every child deserves hope.
One of those children is 13-year-old Liliana, who is battling lymphoma. After months of treatment and time away from friends and everyday childhood experiences, Liliana wished for a special backyard retreat – a place where she could relax, recover, and create new memories. With the help of dedicated volunteers, the Make-A-Wish team transformed her vision into a personalized space designed just for her.
The result was a cozy backyard filled with thoughtful details, furnishings, and décor that reflected Liliana’s personality and style. “I’m so excited to show my friends how cool it is,” she shared.
“Summer is a time when children should be making memories, but for kids facing critical illness, there is no break from their challenges,” said Pattie Mullins, CEO of Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley. “A wish is more than a moment – it is a source of hope, strength, and joy that helps children and families during some of their most difficult days.”
The Summer of Wishes campaign runs through August 2026. More than 200 children across our region are currently waiting for their wish experience. Community support is needed to help make these wishes come true. To learn more, get involved, or make a donation visit wish.org/cvs or email contact info@cvs.wish.org.
About Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley (CVS)
Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley grants the wishes of children with critical medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Wishes help children cope with the challenges of illness and treatment while providing moments of happiness and possibility during difficult times.
With the support of generous donors, community partners, and more than 100 volunteers, Make-A-Wish CVS provides life-changing wish experiences for children living in Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Kern, Kings, Tulare, and Inyo Counties.
