Granting Wishes: The Magical Moments Foundation - PediaCast 567
PediaCast: Pediatric Podcasts for Parents
Deep Dive
What is the mission of the Magical Moments Foundation?
The Magical Moments Foundation aims to restore hope, joy, wonder, and empowerment to children with facial differences through magical adventures and experiences. These children often face stigma, bullying, and social isolation due to their conditions, and the foundation works to show them that their dreams are not limited by their differences.
What types of facial differences do the children served by Magical Moments have?
The children served by Magical Moments have facial differences resulting from congenital anomalies like cleft lip and palate, genetic disorders such as Down syndrome or 22Q deletion syndrome, trauma, burns, or cancer treatment. These differences can have long-term emotional and social impacts.
How did the Magical Moments Foundation start?
The foundation began in early 2020 after a conversation between Dr. Richard Kirshner, a pediatric plastic surgeon, and Krista Schrader. They recognized the emotional toll of appearance-related stigma on children with facial differences and noticed a gap in wish-granting organizations for these kids. The idea quickly evolved, and the foundation granted its first wish later that year.
What is an example of a wish granted by Magical Moments?
One example is a 10-year-old boy with a significant facial difference and blindness who loves cars. Magical Moments arranged for him to visit the Acura NSX plant in Marysville, where he experienced how cars are made. The plant even shut down for an hour to accommodate his visit, creating a memorable experience for him and the workers.
How does Magical Moments impact families and communities?
Magical Moments not only impacts the children but also their families and communities. For example, a factory visit for a child with a facial difference inspired workers and created a sense of community. Families often form new friendships and connections through the foundation, and the experiences boost confidence and self-esteem in the children.
What is the nomination process for a child to receive a wish from Magical Moments?
Anyone can nominate a child through the foundation's website by answering three questions: the child's special story, the wish for a magical moment, and the potential impact of the wish. The foundation prioritizes wishes that will have the most significant positive impact on the child's life.
What is the Lights, Camera, Magic event?
Lights, Camera, Magic is a runway fashion show organized by Magical Moments to boost the self-confidence of children with facial differences. It allows them to model professionally styled outfits and walk the runway, showcasing their beauty and fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
How can people get involved with Magical Moments?
People can get involved by making donations, sponsoring wishes, joining committees, attending events, becoming ambassadors, or starting student chapters. The foundation also hosts events like Piles for Smiles yard sales, where proceeds support their mission.
What is the annual gala hosted by Magical Moments?
The annual gala, called A Night of Magic, is a premier event featuring entertainment, dinner, and live wish-granting. Guests can bid on adventures at a silent auction and participate in a magical wishing well. The event raises funds and awareness for the foundation's mission.
How has Magical Moments grown since its founding?
Since its founding in 2020, Magical Moments has grown significantly, granting more wishes each year and expanding its reach. The foundation now has over 25 student chapters across the U.S., which help raise awareness and funds while organizing their own events and wish-granting initiatives.
- Supports children and families impacted by facial differences
- Wish-granting organization
- Co-founders: Dr. Richard Kirschner and Krista Schrader
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