Creating Core Memories with Make-A-Wish

John is a hero in his own right, just like his favorite superhero, Spider-Man. In 2019, his simple yet heartfelt wish—“I wish to have Spider-Man toys”—was granted by Make-A-Wish. The toys didn’t just bring him joy; they became a source of comfort and inspiration. Even as a foster child, John stayed strong and resilient, just like Spider-Man himself. Today, his memory of receiving the Spider-Man toys when he was younger serves as a reminder that courage and hope can come in the smallest, most meaningful forms.

Core Memory Unlocked: Wish Granted

The wish kid from Baguio, John Rayver, is a foster child. He had an autoimmune disease when he was adopted by his guardian, whom he affectionately calls “Tita Bootz.” Adopted at a young age, John was only six years old when his simple wish was to have Spider-Man toys because Spider-Man was his favorite superhero. During our chat inside their living room at his home with his guardian, John recalled the time a core memory was unlocked when Make-A-Wish Philippines granted his wish. He said, “Nung natanggap ko po yung Spider-Man toys, ang naramdaman ko po ay sobrang saya po.”

Symbols of Strength and Joy

Spider-Man is known for his courage and determination. He keeps moving forward no matter what challenges come his way, always maintaining a positive attitude that inspires others. In the same way, John faces life with optimism and curiosity. His favorite subjects are Science and Math, and his guardian shared that he excels in both at school.

For John, the toys reminded him to stay inspired and keep going — a child full of hope who loves to study and play sports like badminton as his form of exercise.

Story of Gratitude

Wish kid John thanks the wish granters who gave him the Spider-Man toys. With his pure eyes, joyful smile, and words full of sincerity, he expressed gratitude to those who once brought him happiness through the toys he cherished. “Nagpapasalamat ako ng marami dahil po sa mga Spider-Man toys ko na di ko mabitawan nung bata pa ako. Ang saya-saya ko po noon.”

Just like what Aunt May said in Spider-Man 2, “We all have our own battles. It’s what we do with them that makes us heroes.” John became a hero himself by simply sharing what he has. He revealed that he no longer has the toys because he gave them to his younger brother—also a foster child in another family—and to other children of garbage collectors.

Creating Core Memories with His Real-Life Hero

Spider-Man may be John’s fictional superhero, but when I asked him who his real-life hero is, he immediately answered, “Si Tita Bootz po… Kahit nahihirapan siyang tulungan ako, sinusubukan pa rin niya hangga’t kaya niya.” He described his guardian as kind and smart and added, “Sana mabuhay siya ng mahabang buhay.” He is grateful for his guardian’s care, saying, “Nagtha-thank you ako sa kaniya dahil pag wala siya ngayon, ay wala din ako ngayon dito.”

Ode to the Wish Kid’s Hero

His guardian, Tita Bootz, recalled the challenges he faced while becoming John’s foster parent. He went through all the necessary papers and requirements to ensure that John could stay with him as his own child. Their story began when Tita Bootz was doing volunteer work with the LGBTQ+ community. A doctor approached him, asking if he would consider adopting John, who was soon to be transferred to Manila. Both of John’s parents had passed away just weeks apart, leaving him an orphan at a young age. From that moment on, it seemed they were meant to find each other — a blessing both ways.

Become a Wish Maker

Create core memories by becoming a wish maker! A Wish Maker is someone who takes action to support our wish-granting program for children with critical illnesses. With your help, we can continue to grant wishes that replace fear with confidence, sadness with joy, and anxiety with hope.
Visit wishes.ph to find out more.