LOS ANGELES, Calif. (December 2019): Being invited to Hollywood’s blue carpet world premiere of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker sounds like a galaxy far, far away for most devout fans. Yet the stars aligned for Addisyn Richards and Ayden Cazares, who experienced their out of this world dream through Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses.

Kids Wish Network flew Addisyn’s and Ayden’s families to Los Angeles. These adoring Star Wars fans shared the blue carpet with The Rise of Skywalker cast and Hollywood’s elite. Together they celebrated the much-anticipated epic conclusion of the Skywalker sagas. Addisyn was shaking with excitement throughout the festivities of the night. 

“We met so many stars, and they were all so nice and spent so much time with Addisyn and Ayden,” said her mom Stephanie. They were the first kids where the stars walked in, and the blue carpet was abounding with thrilling arrivals. “There’s Han Solo and Luke Skywalker!” Addisyn exclaimed as actors Harrison Ford and Mark Hamill appeared and then came over to meet them. 

“My favorite memory was watching her with Daisy Ridley (Rey),” said her mom. Addisyn smiled, reliving the moment and Ridley’s compliments. “She said it was nice to meet me and liked my outfit.” Addisyn and Ayden also met actor Adam Driver (Kylo Ren), Producer/Director/Screenwriter J.J. Abrams, Disney CEO Bob Iger, and the massive list of celebrities in attendance. It was a whirlwind of surreal moments, and their abundance of photos and autographs scrapbook all of their night’s magical moments.  

After all the blue carpet’s sparkly excitement, they were among the first in the world to screen the film along with the cast, who were also seeing it for the first time. “It was awesome!” exclaimed Ayden. “If they make another movie, I’ll flip out!” After the screening, the fun continued attending the after-party.

Both Wish Kids were born with life-threatening illnesses and struggle with health challenges. Addisyn has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Ayden has aortic stenosis. “When we were designing their wish, we knew we had to make this happen for them,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Tam Lai. “It’s so exciting to celebrate the ending of this iconic legacy of the Star Wars saga with this new generation.”

Anyone can become a wish granter and help provide memorable connections and opportunities. Medical professionals, family members, and others can also refer kids to receive hope-infusing wishes.

Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about the different programs.

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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, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.