As my summer break was coming to an end, and my first year in high school was about to begin, I just simply wanted to eat, sail on, swim, snorkel, have fun, meet new friends and chillax.  The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida granted me my wish plus extras.

I had a forever-memorable experience which I will always value.  My grandmother, mother, step father, and I were treated like royalty when we stepped foot in the Port of Miami cruise terminal to board the Carnival Valor, a floating, mini city that  returned back to the same port seven days later.  Our island excursions were exceptional - especially when I visited the exotic zoo in Belize, rode a donkey in Cozumel, Mexico, witnessed a tribal dance performed by a unique African tribe in Honduras, and snorkeled, held, and kissed a sting ray in Grand Cayman.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation, my sponsor, the Carnival Cruise Line family have all really made my wait for a kidney transplant a little more at ease and unnerving. This experience will always be treasured. Thank you considerably.

Sincerely,
Nija

Wish Granters: Judy Genao & Edward Hill
Referred by: Dr. Ana Paredes, his physician
Wish adopted by: Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hill- InterContinental Miami

Carnival Cruise Lines has been honored as our 2011 Corporation of the Year.  Carnival has supported our mission since 1995 and has donated enough funds to make 68 heartfelt wishes come true. Wish children like Nija who go on Carnival cruises receive many VIP perks including a welcome party, complimentary excursions at every port, in-cabin gifts and behind-the-scenes access.