The coronavirus pandemic has closed businesses and mandated shelter in place orders. Schools have been closed, sports leagues have been suspended, and many workers have been left unemployed.
The outbreak has also affected local nonprofits such as Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic, whose offices were recently forced to close. The organization, on average, grants 375 wishes per year, but almost all of these wishes involve air travel or large group settings, meaning they can’t happen right now.
Knowing this, Tom Wilson recorded a video message for any of the kids who might be bummed out. He also bought activities for all the kids whose wishes are waiting to pass the time at home or in the hospital.
Video
“Hey, Wish Kids. It’s Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals,” he said. “I understand that a lot of your wishes are on hold right now due to this very weird time in the world. I just wanted you to know that I’m thinking of you. You’re all such awesome kids and it’s been a pleasure to get to know a bunch of you along the way. I want you to keep wishing. I’m really looking forward to seeing all your wishes come true when all of this is over. You guys are so strong. Keep fighting. I look forward to seeing you around.”
In mid-March, Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic announced that over 30 local wishes per month would be delayed due to the virus and asked for help from the community when life goes back to normal.
Due to the growing realities and impact of COVID-19, and out of an abundance of caution and a commitment to the health and safety of our community, the Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic office is temporarily closed. (1/5) pic.twitter.com/C4NDjLukaa
— Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic (@WishMidAtlantic) March 16, 2020
Our staff is still diligently working remotely and can be reached by way of email and phone – however there is an impact on our mission. On average, Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic grants 375 wishes per year, and 90% of these wishes involve air travel or large group settings. (2/5)
— Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic (@WishMidAtlantic) March 16, 2020
At this time, we estimate over 30 local wishes per month could be delayed by COVID-19 related postponements. The health & safety of our wish families is our priority and, as always, we remain committed to our vision of granting the wish of every eligible local sick child. (3/5)
— Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic (@WishMidAtlantic) March 16, 2020
We draw inspiration during this trying time from the amazing resilience and strength we see wish kids and their families demonstrate daily. Together, we will endure and continue to make an impact and bring hope, joy and light to local wish kids. (4/5)
— Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic (@WishMidAtlantic) March 16, 2020
Once these circumstances have passed we will need your help more than ever. Please visit https://t.co/4VEQ7zpf9U to find out how you can get involved. (5/5)
— Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic (@WishMidAtlantic) March 16, 2020
The message recorded by Wilson is just the latest video he’s sent out to help lift someone else’s spirits. Last week, the Capitals forward recorded a message for Heroes Pub in Annapolis, MD. The owners are big Caps fans.
Love seeing Willy shout-out Hero’s😍 @russianmachine @ianoland pic.twitter.com/YAYc6jtG3A
— Molly Roth (@mollyroth2) April 4, 2020
Wilson also recorded a message for Capitals fans that included a cameo from his rescue puppy Halle (who is now forever immortalized on a bobblehead with dad).
Headline photo: Elizabeth Kong/RMNB
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