By: Jingwei Zhao
The actor and WWE celebrity John Cena has completely smashed the world record for the most wishes granted to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Now with 650 wishes under his belt, Cena granted his first wish to the foundation two decades ago in 2002 and the foundation’s 1000th wish to a fan named Cardon in 2012. When children meet Cena, they often hang out and take photos with him. Some have been inside the boxing ring. During the visits, Cena even brings one of his championship belts and lets the children put it on.
Kids at the Make-A-Wish Foundation were “thrilled” to have Cena hold the record. After all, his generosity expands beyond Make-A-Wish. Cena is also famous for WWE’s “Be a Star” anti-bullying campaign. Many speak of how impressive this new world record is. The previous record for the most wishes granted to the foundation was only 200. Cena more than tripled that record! In an interview given after granted his 500th wish, Cena confidently spoke, “If you ever need me for this ever, I don’t care what I’m doing, I will drop what I’m doing and be involved because I think that’s the coolest thing.”
If I were to start my own non-profit organization, I do not think that I would choose to be any different than the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The organization is about people donating life-changing wishes that inspire. In my eyes, it is very inspiring for children to see and talk to their idols. The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a noble cause, and if I started my own foundation, I would try to follow in their footsteps if I started my own children-helping foundation.