Listen to this articleThree Make-A-Wish participants got the experience of a lifetime over two days at the Prudential Center.
Taking place Nov. 7–8, the exclusive experience was provided through a partnership between Make-A-Wish and the Devils Youth Foundation, with support from the New Jersey Devils and Fanatics, the official partner of Make-A-Wish.
The youngsters are Natalie, Giovanni and Darby – who, along with their families, had an unforgettable experience.
Their stories highlight their resilience and passions:
- Natalie, 15, from Minnesota, plays hockey with the Northern Lakes Lightning and is facing cancer
- Giovanni, 12, diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disorder, is a lifelong Devils fan who enjoys rollerblading and swimming
- Darby, 19, living with a heart condition, loves crocheting and reading
The three Devils fans watched the team practice and then witnessed as they defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 2-1 in overtime Nov. 8.
Mission in action
“Our mission is rooted in creating meaningful experiences for our youth, and this partnership with Make-A-Wish is a wonderful reflection of that shared mission in action,” said Kate Whitman Annis, executive director of the Devils Youth Foundation. “We are honored to welcome Natalie, Giovanni, Darby and their families for two days of joy, cherished memories, and unforgettable moments with their favorite Devils players during challenging times.”
The two-day experience included:
Practice Day
- Held at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House at Prudential Center
- Personalized jerseys and gifts at individual lockers presented by the team in the Devils’ locker room
- Watching the Devils practice
- On-ice skating session
- Full team meet-and-greet
- Lunch with Devils alumni
- Shopping spree in Devils Den Team Store, courtesy of Fanatics
Gameday Experience
- Watching pre-game warm-ups from the bench
- High Five Tunnel access
- Suite visit with mascot NJ Devil and Devils alum Bruce Driver
- Zamboni ride during intermission
- Tour of MSG TV Truck during second intermission
Our mission is rooted in creating meaningful experiences for our youth, and this partnership with Make-A-Wish is a wonderful reflection of that shared mission in action.
– Kate Whitman Annis, executive director, Devils Youth Foundation
Make-A-Wish New Jersey President and CEO Tom Weatherall said his organization is grateful for the Devils for answering the call when they have wish kids who want to meet their sports heroes.
“We’d also like thank our dear wish granting partner, Fanatics – the official sports partner of Make-A-Wish,” said Weatherall. “Together, we’re committed to changing the game for wish kids like Natalie, Giovanni, and Darby.”
