The ordinary can become extraordinary through a child's imagination. More than anything in the world, Willie wanted to, "take a nap on a hammock between two palm trees on the beach in Hawaii."

The Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of Richmond & Western Virginia — with some assistance from the Hawaii chapter — were more than willing to accommodate such an imaginative request. They arranged for Willie, along with his parents, 7-year-old brother Michael, and 5-year-old brother Benjamin, to take a vacation to the Hawaiian Islands.

For the next 7 days, the 10-year-old enjoyed the beauty and serenity of the islands. During their stay, Willie and his family were treated to a variety of exciting activities including a snorkeling cruise off the coast of Maui and a luau.

Although Hawaii features a large number of luxurious beachfront hotels, only a hotel with access to hammocks would suit Willie. The Hyatt Regency in Maui graciously provided accommodations for Willie and his family during their vacation. A number of hammocks were situated outside the hotel, but just in case they were in high demand, one hammock was specifically designated "Willie’s hammock." Needless to say, anyone looking for Willie could find him resting peacefully on his own personal hammock.

Upon returning home to Virginia, Willie was overjoyed to find out that a local store — undoubtedly impacted by the magic of a wish — had donated a hammock for his backyard. Now Willie can proudly state that his one greatest wish comes true every day, while in Virginia and Hawaii, people will be sharing the story of the boy who wished to sleep on a hammock for years to come.