A few years ago, Matthew developed a strong interest in cooking and baking. At home, the 9-year-old dons his chef's hat and apron and helps prepare the family meals. His love for culinary creations and Japanese food helped him decide on his wish. Matthew asked to meet a chef of flamboyance, innovation, and international fame – Chef Masaharu Morimoto of the Food Network's hit imported television show, "Iron Chef." According to his mother, Matthew spent his time between treatments for his life-threatening illness watching Morimoto perform as "Iron Chef Japanese" on the televised cooking competition.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of Louisiana arranged for Matthew to meet his cooking idol at Morimoto Restaurant, the chef's new, 140-seat eatery in Philadelphia. The excited boy, along with his mother and two aunts, flew to the City of Brotherly Love. There, they dined at Morimoto Restaurant. The restaurant's namesake invited Matthew to join him in the kitchen, where he gave Matthew a warm, informative cooking demonstration. Chef Morimoto was the master and Matthew was the apprentice, but there was a mutual admiration. The duo prepared sushi together.

Matthew's mother saw how a boy and his idol were able to share the power of a wish^® . According to her, "Even though the past one-and-a-half years contained horrible and painful memories, thanks to opportunities like Make-A-Wish^® , we have some great memories too."

For a look into the life of Chef Morimoto, please visit his Web site at www.chefmorimoto.com. To learn more about his restaurant, visit www.morimotorestaurant.com.