ELKHORN, Wis.(March 2021): The stress and pain brought on byMackenzie’’s brain condition loomed over her for many years. Before a series of surgeries, her family saw Hamilton in Chicago as a special experience before her hospitalization. For this theatre lover, Broadway music became a powerful outlet to inspire her and elevate her spirits, especially songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator and star ofHamilton. “I used his music and performances as a coping tool,” said Mackenzie. “It was a thing to get away to from all my problems.” Kids Wish Network made her dream come true, surprising Mackenzie with even more words of inspiration–personally written to her from Lin-Manuel Miranda! He put his pen to paper, writing her a special note of admiration for her bravery as a warrior, and letting her know how much he appreciates her being a fan of his work.“ I love it, I’m going to cry,” said Mackenzie.“It’s a very heartfelt gift, he got me through a lot.” Kids Wish Network also sent her family generous gift cards for Broadway.com, Airbnb, and airfare, making it possible for Mackenzie to “Take a Break” and finally experience a Broadway musical in New York. “Oh my God, that’s so amazing!” exclaimedMackenzie, followed by giddy laughter.“Thank you SO much! On behalf of my whole family, we’re so grateful for everything.”

As a toddler, Mackenzie already had two skull expansion surgeries, and there were many more to come. She was born with metopic craniosynostosis, a birth defect that caused the premature closing of part of her skull before her brain was fully formed. Years later, she suffered from debilitating headaches and pressure that severely affected her life. Mackenzie began missing school, and could no longer participate in many of the activities that brought her joy. Her condition progressed, causing blurred vision and slurred speech, also making it difficult for her to talk. Further testing revealed her skull was cutting off circulation to her brain, causing a pseudotumor cerebri. She was rushed into emergency surgery, and over the next couple of years, Mackenzie had four more brain expansion operations. Since then she’s had additional surgeries, as well as procedures to drain fluid from her brain.“We’re thrilled we could give Mackenzie a wish that holds so much meaning for her, and immerses her in what amplifies her happiness,” said her Wish Coordinator Kim Kreiner. Many ThanksKids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Mackenzie without the help of Playwright, Actor, Singer, Songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs.

Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, includingHero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever FuneralAssistance