Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and Southern West Virginia

May the Force Be With You

Hunter Becomes a Jedi Knight

Not so long ago in a galaxy not so far, far away, five-year-old Hunter's dreams of possessing "powers" came true. But this boy from Coopersburg, PA did not want immense physical strength or the ability to fly like an ordinary super hero. Instead, he wanted to posses the same qualities as his favorite movie characters. Hunter wanted to be a Jedi Knight.

Hunter's wish started with a trip to the Jedi Training Academy at the Walt Disney World® resort in Orlando, Fl. Here, Hunter met and took pictures with all of his favorite Star WarsTM characters. Just like a true padawan, Hunter attended Jedi Academy to learn the physical and mental skills needed to become a Jedi Knight. In his final task, he used his incredible light saber techniques to battle Darth Maul in order to achieve Jedi Knight status. After becoming a Jedi Knight, Hunter led the Star Wars parade with other padawans. All of Hunter's favorite Star Wars characters were there --Yoda, wookies, R2D2, C-3PO, Storm Troopers, Princess Leia, Han Solo and Luke Skywalker. Hunter also went on a Star Wars ride and went to the Star Wars Hoopla. Another highlight of Hunter's weekend was meeting the actors who played the original Chewbacca and Darth Vader.

In addition to memories of an incredible weekend, Hunter brought back gifts from his Star Wars trip. He received a gift basket full of Star Wars toys and souvenirs, which will be perfect additions to his existing collection of Star Wars figurines. He also took pictures every step of the way so he will be able to remember his incredible wish forever. Hunter was so grateful that his wish came true. He said he had the best time in his life, and he could not have asked for anything more. Now, with his special training, Hunter will remain a Jedi Knight forever.