MARQUETTE, Mich. — The Northern Michigan University Athletics department is proud to announce that the Wildcat community has reached its $10,000 fundraising goal for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping grant a life-changing wish for a local child.

Over the past year, NMU Athletics, student-athletes, coaches, and fans joined together through various fundraising events, including Wish Week, Miracle Minutes, Pie to the Face, Dine to Donate, and team-led auctions. The combined efforts raised more than $10,000, marking another milestone in NMU's ongoing partnership with Make-A-Wish and showcasing the power of teamwork and generosity across the Wildcat family.

This year's fundraising efforts will help grant a wish to Indie, a five-year-old from Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Indie was born with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome, a rare 1-in-50,000 chromosomal condition that has brought several medical challenges, including epilepsy and chronic kidney disease. Despite these obstacles, Indie's joyful spirit lights up every room she enters. She loves music, dance parties, Disney movies, and caring for animals on her family's small hobby farm alongside her brother and two sisters.

Next month, Indie and her family will embark on a Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World, a dream come true for a child who thrives on movement and adventure.

"The compassion and generosity our athletes and community continue to show through Make-A-Wish is truly inspiring," said athletic director Rick Comley. "Every dollar raised helps create special moments for children like Indie, and we couldn't be prouder of what our Wildcats have accomplished together."

Before Indie and her family depart for Disney, they will be honored during a special send-off celebration at NMU's volleyball game vs. Davenport in Vandament Arena on Saturday, November 8. Wildcat fans are invited to join the celebration and help send the family off with cheer and Wildcat pride. 

NMU Athletics is honored to continue its partnership with Make-A-Wish and will look to build on this year's success in future campaigns.

For more information on how to contribute to future Make-A-Wish efforts, visit here.