At 10 years old, Alia, from Ticino and suffering from a brain tumor, dreamed of living an exceptional experience:
traveling for the first time, discovering Paris, tasting real croissants and macarons, experiencing the Parisian atmosphere…
and especially to visit the Musée Grévin, the famous wax museum that she loves.
This vibrant and colorful wish perfectly reflects Alia's personality: a creative, funny, energetic little girl, passionate about music, who dreams of becoming a DJ like Gabry Ponte.
A sense of wonder and anticipation
The magic of the wish began before the stay thanks to Prisca and Jessica, our volunteers from Ticino, who were totally charmed by Alia from their first meeting during the wish capture at Alia's home.
They discovered an open, mischievous, very intelligent little girl, delighted to show them her room filled with pandas as well as the drawings and paintings she creates with talent.
To nurture her dream, they prepared:
– a children's guide to Paris,
– a personalized crossword puzzle about the emblems of the capital.
Alia devoured them with enthusiasm, eager to live her dream.
An unforgettable stay in the heart of Paris
Alia, her parents and her older brother finally fly to Paris. As soon as they arrive, they head towards the Eiffel Tower, a magical moment that amazes the whole family.
Then comes the highlight of the trip: The visit to the Grévin Museum, his absolute dream.
Alia received a warm welcome, discovered the wax figures, and enjoyed a special moment going behind the scenes at the museum, accompanied by the artistic director. A memory she will never forget.
The stay continues with:
– a cruise on the Seine,
– a visit to the Louvre,
– discovering the illuminated Eiffel Tower, his favorite moment,
– a day in the Sacré-Cœur district.
A profound impact that continues to this day.
This wish created a surge of strength, joy, and confidence.
His parents testified with emotion:
“We felt – and still feel – much stronger than before. Seeing Alia so excited gave us incredible energy. This afternoon, she presented her wish to her class, with photos and souvenirs from Paris. Incredible.”
And even :
“We are all, and especially Alia, very moved and grateful. She will remember every moment, but especially the illuminated Eiffel Tower.”
Alia returned home transformed, proud, radiant… and even more determined to pursue her dreams — perhaps behind a mixing console, one day.
The essential role of Wish Assist
This dream could not have been so magical without the solidarity between Make-A-Wish affiliates around the world.
Thanks to Wish Assist, we received invaluable local support from Make-A-Wish France, which made Alia's trip even more extraordinary. Their support truly amplified the magic of her wish.
