Big Sandy boy celebrates Make-A-Wish trip to Italy

Press release

GREAT FALLS - The Great Falls Regional Community Council of Make-A-Wish Montana invites the community to attend a celebration for recent wish recipient Henry Merrill.

Along with his family, 6-year-old Henry traveled to Italy in December to visit Pompeii. The Welcome Home Party will take place Sunday, Feb. 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Mighty Mo Brewery conference room.

After receiving a book on Pompeii from his grandparents, Henry became deeply interested in natural disasters and now hopes to become a volcanologist. After finding out that Henry qualified for a wish from Make-A-Wish Montana, Henry's volunteer wish-granters decided to go big and fulfill his dream. Henry, his parents and three siblings spent a week in Italy touring hot spots in Rome as well as the high point for Henry - a visit to Pompeii.

At the Welcome Home Party Feb. 26, Henry and his family will share stories and photos from their trip and celebrate his homecoming with Make-A-Wish Montana volunteers.

More than 70 volunteers throughout the state help the four full-time Make-A-Wish Montana staff members fulfill its mission to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy.

Those who are interested in supporting Make-A-Wish Montana are encouraged to come meet Henry and learn about volunteer opportunities for the foundation.

Montana has 35 children waiting for their wish to be fulfilled. Research indicates that there are even more children who qualify for a wish, yet aren't receiving one. Fundraising efforts are being conducted to meet the growing demand. Make-A-Wish Montana asks individuals, corporations, and foundations to consider donating to their fundraising drive and help fulfill the wishes of sick children.

Make-A-Wish Montana is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization and is financed solely through private cash and in-kind donations.

For more information and to learn how to support or get involved with Make-A-Wish Montana, visit http://www.montana.wish.org or the Great Falls Community Supporters of Make A Wish Montana Facebook page.