Young Israeli Cancer Patient: "I Want This Oshkosh" 

EAA received a special visit from the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin on Wednesday to mark the state's first international wish that was granted this past summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. Raviv Yalosky, an 18-year-old cancer patient, and his family received red carpet treatment here last summer after they traveled from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Oshkosh. His original wish-to learn how to fly-was not possible because of his illness, so after hearing from a nurse about EAA AirVenture, Raviv said, "I want this Oshkosh."

Make-A-Wish Field Office Manager, Jackie VerVoort, explained how the late request from Israel had her initially scrambling. "We got the call in early July, and I was worried how we could possibly put something together on such short notice," she said.

She thought well to call Randy Hansen, EAA government relations director who has served as the association's Make-A-Wish liaison for six years. "After one call to Randy, I didn't have any problems, because he and his team truly became the wish grantors on this. They did it all, as Raviv was granted special tours of every facet of EAA's AirVenture operations during his five-day visit."

The entire group of AirVenture 2004 Make-A-Wish kids and their families with Gen Chuck Yeager in front of EAA's Ford Tri-motor. Raviv Yalosky is pictured standing, fourth from the right.

"You made Raviv's wish come true," VerVoort told EAA staff. She and assistant Christie Heckel also presented EAA President Tom Poberezny with a special gold Wish Star.

EAA and Make-A-Wish have worked together for seven years, creating special days at AirVenture Oshkosh for children with life-threatening medical conditions and their families. Members of the International Federal Partnership located in the Federal Pavilion arrange for special tours of convention grounds, including ultralight flights, VIP receptions, and a flight with General Chuck Yeager piloting EAA's Ford Tri-motor. Dave Grantham from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency serves as the Make-A-Wish Chairman for the IFP.

"Make-A-Wish is a great organization," Poberezny said. "We're proud to be able to be a part in the first international wish come true. I'm grateful for all the EAA staff who work to make special days for these special people."

Many EAA staff members also had a hand in coordinating the Make-A-Wish day. They include Kathy Phillip, Bill Fischer, H.G. Frautschy, Nicole Raudabaugh, Jim Friedrich, Steve Buss, Gina Raddatz, Jim Sternat, and George Daubner.

Throughout the year MAW looks at interests of their clients and if there's an indication about airplanes or aviation, they are set aside for possible inclusion in the annual Make-A-Wish day at AirVenture Oshkosh.

FMI: www.eaa.org