Make-A-Wish Illinois Marks 20,000th Grant by Making Teen an Honorary Firefighter

Make-A-Wish Illinois granted its 20,000th wish on Tuesday, turning the life of Kayleigh Carpenter into a day at the Chicago Fire Department. The 17-year-old from Avalon Park was sworn in as an honorary firefighter, a title conferred by Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt during a surprise visit to the Carpenter home.

Carpenter lives with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Her mother, Rashonda Hunt, said the morning began with firefighters arriving at the house early. Hunt described her daughter's reaction when the truck turned the corner. "Her eyes got really big and she was surprised," Hunt said.

The Chicago Fire Department provided a demonstration of their equipment before outfitting Carpenter in a uniform. She then experienced the process of putting out a fire. The department also arranged a visit from David Eigenberg, an actor on the television show "Chicago Fire."

Eigenberg noted the personal connection between the teen and the profession. "Kayleigh Carpenter is a fine young lady who has so much joy in her heart and takes care of people, and that's what the fire department does here," Eigenberg said.

Commissioner Nance-Holt addressed Carpenter during the swearing-in ceremony. "She will remember her strength, believe in her courage and keep the support of her firefighter family close to her heart," Nance-Holt said.

Casey Marsh, CEO of Make-A-Wish Illinois, explained that medical professionals often nominate patients for such surprises. "We hear from doctors and nurses and social workers who are working with these children, saying that looking forward to a wish brings a lot of joy and hope and something to look forward to," Marsh said.

Carpenter’s neurologist nominated her for the specific wish to become a firefighter. Hunt said she valued the moment for the happiness it brought her daughter. "For me it was just nice to see a smile on her face and see how happy she was to do something like this," Hunt said.