Everything in Jordan’s life revolves around hockey. He loves watching games, collecting trading cards, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins.  His favorite team also inspires him to be an NHL player when he grows up. Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses, teamed up with the Pittsburgh Penguins and created the coolest wish, tallying up a high score on and off the ice.   

Jordan’s wish was full of extraordinary moments. Pittsburgh Penguins winger Conor Sheary took Jordan and his family on a private tour of the locker room, and Jordan experienced what it would be like practicing pre-game with Sheary at the team’s shooting zone. “Many of the players complimented him on his shooting skills,” said his mom Nicole. “Everyone was super friendly.” Jordan also felt like a celebrity having his experience documented by a professional photographer who captured all the meaningful moments for Jordan and his family. 

“My favorite part of the wish was meeting Conor Sheary and touring the locker room,” said Jordan. “I also got to meet a bunch of players from the team.” Jordan was so thrilled about his time spent with the Penguins’ winger, that he made a sign with the words “I spent the day with Conor Sheary.” When Sheary spotted him from the ice, he made a grand gesture flipping a puck over the glass to his newest fan friend.

“It was really special for Jordan getting to see the team’s morning skate practice and receiving the jersey from Conor,” said his mom. “We’ll be making a shadow box to display the signed jersey and photo… he’s already picked out a spot in his room for it. If Jordan has a bad day, it’ll make him feel better. It was the best day ever!”  

During the wish, the family also enjoyed a decadent lunch at the Capital Grille – Pittsburgh. “We listen to our Wish Kids’ interests and are so honored to create personalized and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that bring inspiration to their lives,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Tam Lai. “We’re so thankful to Conor Sheary and the Pittsburgh Penguins for going above and beyond and making Jordan’s wish so incredible.”

• Kids Wish Network is a national charitable organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children with life-threatening conditions and struggling with life-altering situations. KWN provides for trip expenses, meals, accommodations, and additional spending monies to all wish families whenever traveling as applicable. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs, and refer a child now.