Latest Wishes - Andrew is bowled over

Teenager Andrew from Rogerstone in Newport had a long-time wish come true when he met his heroes recently, courtesy of Make-A-Wish.

Andrew, aged 17, is living with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – cancer of the lymphatic system – and as a result had to stop playing his favourite sport, football. He’s remained an avid sports fan, though – and in searching for a sport he could participate in, he discovered Indoor Bowls. Since taking up the sport, Andrew has developed a real passion for the game and if he isn’t playing himself, loves nothing more than watching his favourite players in competition.

When Andrew asked Make-A-Wish if he could attend the World Indoor Bowls Championships at Potters Leisure Resort in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, we were only too happy to help.

On arrival Andrew and his parents Debra and Martyn were joined for dinner (much to Andrew’s surprise and delight) by top Indoor Bowls players Paul Foster, Steve Glasson, David Gourlay, Kelvin Kerkow and Alex Marshall MBE, who all chatted for hours with the family before signing a shirt and giving it to Andrew to treasure.

Andrew spent the rest of the weekend awe-struck and happy watching the 2010 Championships. He also managed to practise some of the tips the players had given him at dinner on Friday.

Andrew said: “I had a great weekend. I felt like a real VIP on Friday! To meet all the players was just amazing – I will never forget it.”

Andrew’s father, Martyn, says: “Friday was so special. We hardly saw Andrew when he was with the players as they had so much to talk to him about. Thank you Make-A-Wish for a super weekend.”

In 2010, around 1,000 children will turn to Make-A-Wish to have their special wish granted. We need to raise £5 million this year in order to continue granting these magical wishes. Please help us to grant more magical wishes by making a donation today