Wishes granted for 25 years

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By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM

CAROL Porter has been putting smiles on the faces of children with life-threatening medical conditions for the past 25 years, but she was in the spotlight at a recent dinner to mark the milestone.
She became involved with Make-A-Wish soon after it began in Cardinia, and has since devoted countless hours to granting wishes.
Jacqui Kortholt, president of the Make-A-Wish Cardinia-Casey Branch, said Carol’s contribution to the organisation had been nothing short of incredible.
“She has helped grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions through her involvement in wish-granting, fund-raising, attending community events, holding executive positions at the branch and sharing her enthusiasm for Make-A-Wish at many public speaking events,” Jacqui said.
“Her passion for granting a child’s most precious wish has been an inspiration to not only her fellow volunteers, but to the community as a whole.”
To celebrate her 25 years of service, Carol was presented with a book filled with photos and memories of her involvement as well as the stories of some of the children.
For Carol, it’s been a labour of love.
“I have always been involved in volunteering in my community and being a Make-A-Wish volunteer appealed to me,” she said.
“I have attended many wish families and presentations and the joy it brings to wish children and families makes the Make-A-Wish experience very worthwhile.”
Highlights are hard to choose after many rewarding years as a volunteer.
“One of my favourites was a cubby house for a little girl called Gabby,” she said.
“There was a water tank with running water and a sand pit and the delight on her face was just beautiful.
“Just last year I was reintroduced to Gabby, who was going out with a friend’s so. I was able to give her some lovely photos of the wish day that she did not have and it was a wonderful moment for us both, after so many years.”
To find out more about volunteering or fundraising for Make-A-Wish visit makeawish.org or phone Cardinia-Casey Branch president Jacqui on 0408 294 232.