Make-A-Wish has been granting life-changing wishes to children for 41 years today. This World Wish Day, Nanonation announced a partnership with Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana to help grant a boy’s wish that will impact other children for years to come. Every year, Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana joins Make-A-Wish chapters and international affiliates in celebrating World Wish Day on April 29, the anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish in 1980.
“Health challenges like what Koen has experienced are extremely difficult for the child and family. Koen has been so brave, and we are incredibly proud of him. His willingness to share his wish with other children is inspiring. It would be so understandable for him to want something for himself, after what he’s been through. Future patients at Avera Medical Group Pediatric Specialists will have their days brightened by the interactive display and activity book that Koen is providing. It’s been our honor to care for Koen as he continues to overcome his health difficulties,” said Wilfredo Veloira Jr., MD, Avera pediatric pulmonologist.
Seven-year-old Koen grew up on a farm, learning the importance of farming from his parents. Koen’s wish was to teach other children about farms, and more specifically – his favorite tractor and farm safety. The experience is a touchscreen mounted on a wall in Avera Health’s facility, where Koen has received treatment. Coined “Koen’s Farm,” the area will entertain and teach young patients about farming while waiting for their appointment. The area is complete with a wall wrap featuring illustrations of a barn and farm animals.
Koen’s Farm has a quiz game and coloring application, along with a special introduction video from Koen himself. Nanonation’s design and development teams created the experience. “We are thrilled to be a part of Koen’s wish, and our entire team has enjoyed working with everyone involved in bringing it to life. It has been a true pleasure to work on a project that has allowed us to use our talents to give back,” said Caryn Anderson, Nanonation’s Account Executive. Nanonation is proud to play a part in granting a wish and it wouldn’t have been possible without their previous relationship with Avera Health in creating Digital Donor Boards.
