Erie Regional Manager, Kate Neubert-Lechner with Conor at his birthday wish fundraiser.
A Wish That Sparked a Lifetime of Giving
Conor was diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disorder in 2011, beginning a long journey of treatments, hospital visits and uncertainty. But thanks to dedicated physicians in Erie and Pittsburgh— Conor has continued to respond well to treatment.
Conor riding to the studio on his wish day in New York City
During this initial phase of treatment, his doctor at UPMC Children’ s Hospital of Pittsburgh referred him to Make-A-Wish. In April of 2016, Conor’ s wish came true. He spent an unforgettable afternoon in New York City with his favorite late night talk show host. The experience lifted his spirits so deeply that he promised to pay it forward.
But giving was already in his nature. Starting at age nine, Conor turned his birthday parties into charitable events for kids in hospitals— raising funds, donating handmade ornaments and collecting more than 1,100 comic books.
For his efforts, Conor was recognized by WJET- TV, Kohl’ s Care and the NWPA Association of Fundraising Professionals, which named him " Outstanding Young Philanthropist " in 2016. Since receiving his wish, Conor and his supporters have raised thousands of dollars each year to help grant wishes to other children with critical illnesses.
Erie News Now anchors Mike Ruzzi and
Philip Ward with Conor.
And just last year, Conor surpassed his goal for his most recent birthday Wish Your Way campaign— raising $ 23,345 and bringing his lifetime total to nearly $ 110,000.
Conor never forgot the hope his wish gave him, and he continues to pay it forward every chance he gets.
If you ' re interested in getting involved like Bob or Conor, please consider fundraising for Make-A-Wish and start your own campaign for wishes. Visit wish. org / greaterpawv / wyw to get started today! 11