In 10 years, the nonprofit organization Ally’s Wish has granted over 350 last wishes for terminally ill mothers with children. Inspired by the late Allyson Hendrickson, Ally’s Wish provides memories for families to last a lifetime. Wishes are granted in the form of trips, services, gifts or other requests the mother may have.
The seeds for this organization were planted when founder/president Missy Phipps heard Allyson speak about her walk with cancer at church. Missy and her friends wanted to do something special to help moms like Ally. At the time, Missy had four young children of her own and wondered what her wish would be in such a heartbreaking situation.
“I knew I would most want to make memories with and for my children,” she says.
This idea led to creation of the 501c3 charitable organization, which fundraises through grants, donations and events.
The biggest event is the annual “Boots & Blessings Gala,” with a western theme tipping a hat to the “Three Little Cowboys,” as Ally called her sons. During her cancer journey, Ally kept a blog recounting her challenges, faith and love of family, which was eventually published as the “Three Little Cowboys” book.
This year’s gala, celebrating the organization’s 10th anniversary, will be April 27th at Lucky Spur Ranch Retreat in Justin, with a goal of raising $175,000.
The event features barbecue dinner, program, silent and live auctions, music, games, raffles and more. Attire ranges from boots to ballgowns.
For tickets or to donate, visit https://allyswish.org/.