Alex's wish to create a PSA ~ Alex would have turned 30 this year

Thirteen years ago, a teenager with cancer made a wish. She wished to make a difference and to leave a mark by saying to anyone who would listen: "If you see a kid with cancer, give them a smile." This insightful teen, Alex, knew the hurt these children had already endured.

Alex worked with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Michigan and our creative friends at BERLINE, to create a heartfelt public service announcement. She wanted her closest friends from the hospital to appear with her. As they spoke from the heart, people around Michigan and around the country listened. We'd like for them to listen again as we mark the passing of time. Alex would have turned 30 this May of 2011.

After a ferocious battle with cancer, enduring radiation, chemotherapy and the loss of her leg, Alex passed away just days after seeing the final cut of her PSA. Yet she lived to see her wish come true.

Many of the courageous children in the clip are still with us, some lost their battle as Alex did. But their courage and grace will forever be with us. When you see little Amanda saying "No more pokes," you can now imagine a 15-year-old, very talented artist. And young Judy is now married! And Ethan, he's a college student!

In this newly released PSA, as you see it on networks and cable around the state of Michigan, we hope you will join us in celebrating these amazing children, their families and all the wish children who are so deserving of Alex's smile.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Alex
• Alex Graham
• Bill and Susie Graham
• When One Door Closes
• Make-A-Wish
• Make-A-Wish Foundation
• PSA
• Berline Group
• Wishes
• Wish Kids