Thinking I would get a hundred bucks or so to spend at a nearby mall, I was surprised when I was told I would get $100 for every year of my age! I was 15 at the time, but wanted to wait 'til I was 16 to take the spree (that's $100 more!). I was still expecting to spend my $1600 locally when they asked me the next question, "Where do you want to go for your spree?" I was thinking...WHAT! Where can I go? When I was told I could travel, free, to any place in the United States (without crossing the ocean) I just about wet myself.
Now came the difficult decision of where to go. I thought about many exciting places but finally decided to go to Pensacola Florida so that I could attend the Brownsville Revival I had heard all about.
The Make A Wish Foundation flew me and my family out to Florida where a room at the Hampton Inn was waiting. When we pulled up to the Hampton in our free rent-a-car, the sign outside said "Welcome Karen Yergler." I was a celebrity! This was only the first of many wonderful surprises that awaited me!
The city of Pensacola completely spoiled me and my family. I met the mayor and received the key to the city, local businesses showered gifts and coupons on me, I got a free limo ride, a painting by an Elephant, and so much more! I can't even begin to list everything that I received! I was on the local news and recognized wherever I went. Forget the shopping spree, THIS was awesome.
I received my shopping spree money in the form of traveler's checks. I bought clothes, a stereo, a tv, vcr, entertainment center and much more, I don't remember everything I bought, but I remember how fun it was buying it!
My Make-a-Wish experience was awesome. I don't exactly remember the names of the volunteers who helped me. Al Kaiblfish was the man's name but I know I butchered his last name. Thank you Make-A-Wish for brighting the life of this blessed girl!
