Event helps dreams come true for sick kids
LORETTO, Pa. -- “She would be so proud,” said Beverly Bender. “Shortly before she died, she looked at me and said, 'Mom. Make-a-Wish was good to me, please be good to Make-a-Wish.'
Making wishes come true: That's the goal of an annual event being held again this weekend in Cambria County.
It's called Pickin’ For Wishes and it's the sixth year for the event. It's a bluegrass festival filled with music, food, games and crafts.
The Benders lost their daughter, Danielle, to cancer nearly 30 years ago, but say the memories they have from the Make-A-Wish program and the help they received, made them want to give back.
The Benders say even if you don't think you like bluegrass music, it’s still a great time and fills you with hope. And best of all, every cent that's raised goes toward kids who need a little bit of hope.
“We ask them if they had one wish in the whole wide world, what would it be and then we do our best to grant it,” Bender said. “It just gives them hope and they'll look at us and say, ‘Well, if my wish can come true, then I can be well.’ And it's the greatest feeling in the world.”
When they started the event, Bender said their goal was to raise enough money to grant one wish. Since then, the event has raised more than $134,000 and has been able to grant 34 wishes.
Pickin’ For Wishes begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, August 22, at the Cresson Sportsman’s in Loretto. The event will continue through Saturday.
The event is free but donations will be accepted. There will also be a basket raffle.
Those wanting to spend the night are welcome to bring a tent. Campers are welcome beginning Thursday, August 23, but are asked to make a reservation by calling 814-932-2794.
For more information visit http://www.pickinforwishes.org.
When they started the event, Bender said their goal was to raise enough money to grant one wish. Since then, the event has raised more than $134,000 and has been able to grant 34 wishes.
Pickin’ For Wishes begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, August 22, at the Cresson Sportsman’s in Loretto. The event will continue through Saturday.
Tickets for the event are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. There will also be a basket raffle.
Those wanting to spend the night are welcome to bring a tent. Campers are welcome beginning Thursday, August 23, but are asked to make a reservation by calling 814-932-2794.
For more information visit http://www.pickinforwishes.org.
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