The event was held Thurs., July 31, the organization's 2nd anniversary of granting wishes to young people with cancer, from midnight to 11:59 p.m. that night. The goal of this event was to raise enough funds to grant the wishes of 22 different candidates who were suffering from an array of cancers at different stages.
Each hour, 3 Little Birds 4 Life took to their Facebook page and posted photos and the stories of those who are fighting cancer and need wishes granted. The organization asked for funds and items to help make these wishes come true. Out of the 22, enough funds were raised to grant 14 wishes.
"We want to thank everyone for helping us grant 14 out of 22 wishes during our event," said Ashley Swip, founder of 3 Little Birds 4 Life. "It was our plan to try to grant 24 wishes in 24 hours beginning on July 31 at midnight. Everyone who donated money on that day definitely helped make a difference in the life of these young adults, and we couldn't be more grateful for their help!"
Wish recipients include those between the ages of 18 and 40 who are managing cancer of some type from diagnosis till 6 months past remission. Wishes vary from person to person, including a new engine for a vehicle, remodels of a room in their homes, a vacation to Disney World, and many others.
Since July 2012, 3 Little Birds 4 Life has granted up to 92 wishes. The organization was started after founder Swip's brother, Tyler, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. After he underwent many surgeries, treatments, and the final stages, Swip wanted her brother to have one day of pure happiness away from the cancer. She saw how happy his wish, which was a day watching Cardinals baseball at Busch Stadium, made him. As soon as she noticed what a difference it made for him, Swip became dedicated to bringing that same joy to others.
Unfortunately, Swip's brother passed away from his cancer, but her dedication helped her found 3 Little Birds 4 Life in his memory. The organization currently has four headquarters - Collinsville, Chicago, Louisville, Ky., and Mattoon, Ill.
"Tyler would be so proud and happy to see what his journey has evolved into," Swip said.
One of Swip's favorite things about the organization is that it has helped give young adults with cancer a face to the public. "We help open others' eyes to the fact that these people need help," Swip said. "Their families are suffering, too, and when they have a chance to get their wish granted, it gives everyone a moment to be 'normal' again, an opportunity to be their old self. Cancer does not define a person, but it can become overwhelming in time. Granting their wishes helps alleviate the suffering these people have been feeling, even if for a moment."
3 Little Birds 4 Life is always seeking those who wish to give their time, efforts, or monetary donations to the organization in the hopes of helping others. Those who wish to help are encouraged to visit http://www.3littlebirds4life.org or to call 888-370-8885 to find out more about the organization.
For more information, please visit their website at http://www.3littlebirds4life.org.
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