For the second year, Musket has had the privilege of partnering with Make-A-Wish Canada to fulfill the wish of a child suffering with a life-threatening illness.
Make-A-Wish Canada brings children and their families hope, strength and joy in an otherwise very difficult time in their lives. Its mission of granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses is one that all members of the Musket family were touched by and motivated to support.
The necessary funds were raised through a series of lunches and barbeques, attended by members of the Musket team eager to get behind the important cause. Several individuals deserve special mention for their efforts in ensuring both our first and second Make-A-Wish campaigns were a success.
During both our first and second campaign, Royal Windsor Yard Manager Joe Lopes helped fund-raise record amounts at our Musket’s annual barbeque. While all standard menu items are provided for our employees to enjoy at no cost, Joe added specialty items that were available in exchange for a donation to the cause. By preparing “Joe’s special chicken”, peppers, pineapples and more, Joe was able to attract sizable donations to help fuel the Make-A-Wish campaign.
In our second campaign, Rob Smith came out as our record level fundraiser by introducing the option for our drivers to take payroll deductions as donations. This took an extraordinary effort regarding communication and accounting to ensure all of our drivers could contribute with ease. Rob was able to secure volunteer donations from 102 drivers – a testament both to his tremendous efforts and the generosity of our fleet.
This year, in partnership with Make-A-Wish Canada, Musket was able to send 8-year-old Aarav and his family to the Walt Disney World Resort to meet Lightening McQueen, his favourite character from the Pixar film “Cars.”
Diagnosed at a young age with Leukemia, Aarav has faced more painful obstacles in his 8 years than many adults do in a lifetime. Supporting Aarav throughout his difficult journey took a toll on his family. Thankfully, Aarav went into remission in December of 2017. After facing his condition and learning of the news of his recovery, Aarav was given the opportunity to have his wish come true.
Aarav’s wish of meeting Lightening McQueen began with VIP treatment, including a limousine ride to the airport and first-class treatment from the staff at WestJet airlines. Aarav was even invited to sit with the pilot in the cockpit en route to Orlando.
Upon arrival, Aarav and his family enjoyed a magical stay at Give Kids the World Village. Over the course of his visit, he met all of his favourite characters and enjoyed quality family time with his parents. Aarav’s trip highlights included having the chance to see the Transformers 3D Movie and, of course, the most anticipated part of his trip – meeting Lightening McQueen!
Aarav had such a magical time on his wish trip that he decided to make a video of his time at Walt Disney World Resort to share with his class.
“He was crying the last day because he [had such an incredible time and] would miss it, and wants to go back,” explained Aarav’s mom. She expressed gratitude to Musket and Make-A-Wish Canada for the family trip, calling it a “dream come true” because of how much happiness it brought to their son.
The Musket Transport team feels fortunate to be able to play a role in granting the wishes of such special and deserving young members of the community. Our partnership with Make-A-Wish Canada is one we plan to uphold for years to come.
“Clearly, when the Musket family comes together to support a cause close to our hearts, magical things happen. After a difficult battle, Aarav and his family were able to enjoy a special week away together designed to make a dream come true – and we’re so thrilled we got to be a part of making that possible,” expressed Andy Balij, CEO and President.