Words cannot express what the Rainbow Connection has meant to our family. They have consistently shown us compassion and love, providing our kids with endless opportunities for fun and exciting memories. Our daughter recently had her wish trip to Disney World and it was more than she could’ve ever dreamed!!! Special thank you to her wish coordinator, Nevin, who has been with us since the start and is one of the kindest and most reliable people we’ve ever been blessed enough to have in our lives! A truly irreplaceable part of the team. Thank you to the entire team for the work you do day after day!!!
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Our daughter was welcomed into the Rainbow Connection family in February of 2023, and we have already felt so much love and support from this incredible team. Her diagnosis of Beta Thalassemia Major means that she is transfusion dependent, and we spent a lot of time in the hospital for her treatments. The Rainbow Connection has provided our daughter with so many fun opportunities to create happy memories together as a family! The support and the check ins from our AMAZING wish coordinator and the rest of the team is unmatched. They truly feel like family to us because it’s apparent how much they care about our daughter and giving her everything they can. We can’t say thank you enough, and know this is just the beginning of the love we will continue to feel from them.
The Rainbow Connection has poured into our family in so many ways. Their kindness and generosity have opened up so many doors to make lifetime memories. Every member of their team has treated us with dignity and compassion. We do not know how long God is going to let us have with our daughter. But through the servant hearted actions of The Rainbow team, we are able to make moments that will be cherished forever.
Around 20 years ago my son was at the Hospital were i met the Rainbow connection. They helped the whole family understand and deal with what was happing with our 9year old son. Wonderful people and all the love, support and things they do. so glad this year my work family and i got together and could give back and help quite a few families have a great Christmas.
My daughter was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma at 7 and given a 20% chance of survival. The hospital social worker suggested that we reach out to Rainbow Connection instead of Make-a-Wish because of their terrific support of their wish children throughout their childhood. Although, she only received one wish trip, Rainbow Connection still sent warm wishes to her when she battled another round of cancer at 16. Their support and kindness was very much appreciated when the world felt like it was crumbling. Not only do they offer quite a few recreational opportunities each year to all of their wish children, they take the time to encourage those who are in active treatment. I cannot say enough to describe how wonderful of an organization the Rainbow Connection is. As an teen and adult, my daughter has volunteered to support some of their activities and fundraisers, alongside several of my family members.
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My daughter was diagnosed with bone cancer at 7 years old. She fought two more cancers by the time she turned 18. The Rainbow Connection was a moral support for our whole family throughout her childhood. They are amazing because they do not just grant a single wish--although we had a great time at Give Kids the World Village and Disney World/Universal Studios--they provide opportunities to connect with other families and children throughout childhood. My daughter grew close to several other "wish kids". The support is unprecedented. If you need an ear to listen or assistance with finding who to call, they are there. There are multiple group gatherings for kids throughout the year and even more recreational opportunities for kids through donated tickets to plays, movies, fairs, sports games, etc.
I cannot recommend them more highly. My entire family tries to volunteer at least a few times a year with them and donate as well.
As I was fighting childhood cancer, The Rainbow Connection was there for me and my family, assisting wherever necessary and they were even able to provide myself and my family with a wish trip to Disney World in Florida upon completion of my treatment. Their impact in the community is palpable and I’m grateful for everything they’ve done for myself as well as all others dealing with challenging circumstances. To this day, I enjoy giving back to The Rainbow Connection and volunteering when I am able to. They are amazing!
Our son was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma brain tumor at age 16. Things progressed at lightning speed with no time to think. X-ray identified the tumor one day and surgery was scheduled the next, followed by 30 days of radiation and 18 months of chemotherapy. After surgery, a representative from The Rainbow Connection met with us and said they were granting my son a wish trip for the entire family. We had never heard about The Ranbow Connection prior to this, but let me tell you, they are absolute angels. They were compassionate, caring and offered us this wish trip to look forward to when our son was feeling better. They kept in contact during his illness to see how he was feeling, and offered him little things like tickets to baseball games to brighten our son's day. We spent months discussing the wish trip with my son and it gave the entire family something to look forward to as we journeyed through his treatments. We are eternally grateful to the folks at The Rainbow Connection for what they do for sick children. BTW - our son is now 34 years old and getting married to a wonderful woman in June!!!
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When my daughter was 3 years old, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer. During that year of the scary unknowns, our wish trip was something we could look forward to. My daughter was so excited to have her wish come true at of course Disney as at that time, she believed she was a princess herself. This wish trip was at the perfect time as it was the end of her treatments and it was a celebration that she was cancer free. The Rainbow Connection was absolutely AMAZING and our trip did not disappoint!
Great organization that helps kids. We recently adopted a family for Christmas. Rainbow Connection made it easy along the way for us. Ingrid and her team were top notch during the journey. The thank you note that we received from the family melted our hearts.
The trip to Disney wad awesome. We didn't have to worry about anything just waking the morning we left. Rainbow Connection is a really great organization. Love you guys.
Is there anything in the world better than a child with a big smile on their face? The Rainbow Connection puts smiles on faces of children who have had little to smile about. Fulfilling the fantasies of children who have serious illnesses is the goal of this outstanding organization. Hurray for The Rainbow Connection.
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This group cares about helping others more than any other group I have ever dealt with. Their mission is to make wishes come true for Michigan children with life threatening medical conditions. They also provide support services to wish families in need. I have been at many events where the wishes have been granted, and I leave with tears in my eyes and love in my heart.
Wishes are granted and so much more. Everyone who works for Rainbow has a passion for granting wishes and so much more for the children and their families. Great organization.
The Rainbow Connection is truly an incredible organization that makes a profound difference in the lives of children facing life-threatening illnesses. Their dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to granting wishes is nothing short of inspiring.
The team goes above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences for these children and their families, providing hope, joy, and precious memories during difficult times. Their impact reaches far beyond the wishes themselves—they bring a sense of community, support, and love to those who need it most.
The Rainbow Connection deserves to be recognized and celebrated for all the amazing work they do. If you're looking for a cause to support, this is one that truly changes lives. Thank you to the entire team especially Brenda and Ingrid for your kindness, generosity, and the magic you bring to so many families!
This organization is one of the best out there! They truly go above and beyond for their families. Always there to help and the events they do for the kids are top notch. We are truly lucky to be apart of such a great organization! Thank you for all you do!!
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This organization has been truly unbelievable to our family. Upon granting my daughters wish they have continued to support our family through some of our hardest times! We appreciate the entire organization and everything they do to help the kids and families! Keep up the great work and thank you for all you do!
Rainbow Connection helped provide my child with an amazing wish trip after a very long treatment for a serious illness. They were caring, thoughtful people every step of the way.
The Rainbow Connection has brought such a personal and full joy to my son, Jonas' life. Jonas, born in China and adopted by our family, arrived at the U.S. with twelve years of poorly treated hemophilia. This life-threatening condition has impacted Jonas, but the work of Rainbow Connection has done so much to bring moments of happiness to Jonas, despite the setbacks he has faced from hemophilia. Whether attending a Tiger's game or Lion's pre-season game or the trip of a lifetime to Hawaii, Jonas and our family has been blessed by moments and memories provided by the generosity of this amazing non-profit. One of my goals is through one of my side projects to give BACK to Rainbow Connection. I love the work they do with so many families.
Rainbow connection has been there for us since my youngest son was diagnosed with cancer. They have helped in so many ways. Help with rent, school supplies and clothes for my kids, food, other bills, not tp mention all the help with Christmas and just everything. My sons wish trip was planned and funded by them and it was amazing to say the least! They are always kind and willing to help.
The Rainbow Connection was there for our daughter and family when we most needed the support. We will always be a part of the organization in some way. Special thanks to Ingrid Todt and her staff for all that they do!!!
I've been a volunteer with Rainbow Connection for over ten years, and I am continually amazed at the many children and families for whom they've eased the horror of a life-threatening illness, and at the many success stories that result. I am also in awe of the many different fund-raising events that the Rainbow Connection staff develop and carry out. I love seeing the happy faces of the families whenever I attend an event, and that's what keeps me volunteering.
Great organization!! Their communication,is Superb and they really care about the well being of others!!
We signed up with Rainbow Connection at the recommendation of a family member with the same diagnosis who had previously benefited from the program. Before our initial meeting, we thought it was only a wish organization, but were pleased to find there are many other opportunities for ongoing involvement for our daughter.
They granted a wish for my childhood best friend which left her family with the most wonderful memory of her. I love volunteering with them.
This charity has done great work for deserving children for many years. We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to help a family in need during the holidays last year.
The Rainbow Connection has been an amazing support system for not only my child but for my family as well. They have been there for us in more ways than one and I don’t think words would ever be able to express how truly grateful we are for such a wonderful organization.
Rainbow Connection was such a gift. The look on my daughter's face when she was at a chemotherapy session & was told she would be able to receive a wish was priceless! Kristen was amazing to work with & made my daughter feel special through the entire process! Our family is so thankful for all she & the Rainbow Connection did for our girl! She was able to have a once in a lifetime shopping spree with her friends that she will never forget! So grateful!!!
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Rainbow Connection has helped my family through the toughest if times. We go through a lot but they make sure they're always reaching out to cover any needs we may have, provide outings to help us to create lasting memories, and just overall yhe best organization that our family could've been involved in.
The rainbow connection has supported my sons cancer journey from the very beginning! They are the most kind hearted staff and we are truly blessed for everything they have done for us!!
They granted my daughters amazing trip to Hawaii. We as a family were able to get away and forget about her cancer for awhile. They also invited her to Kid Rocks house to play games and pizza.
They are amazing and do great things fir kids and their families.
Became apart of the Rainbow Connection family this year (2023) and they have been nothing short of amazing to my wish child since joining. We were blessed with a trip to Florida to visit the themeparks and and on top of that wonderful trip their always looking for ways to uplift your child with many opportunities and activates for you and the family to join in on. Our coordinator was the kindest and most caring and I can't praise them enough, thank you for everything.
My family became a member of the Rainbow Connection in June of 2016 when my son was diagnosed with ALL at a year an a half. They have been very supportive throughout our journey. We went on the Disney trip when my son had the most amazing time ever. To this day he still talks about the rides. Then 2 years ago my little man lost his father. The Rainbow Connection was there to help me give him the best Christmas he could have that year. I am very blessed and thankful to be a part of their family.
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In june of 2016 my son was diagnosed with leukemia. A few months later a fellow mother recommended the rainbow connection to help me with the tough times. I called them and they came to my house with gifts or me and my son Lukas. I was sold immediately. I have gotten so much love and support. I really don't know how I would have made it without them. They have helped me with his birthday (which is a week before Christmas) and with Christmas presents. Lukas absolutely loved his trip to Disney. He keeps asking to go back. One day. The food cards have came in handy so many times. I am very grateful to be a part of the rainbow connection.
We became a part of the rainbow connection wish family in 2018 when my son was diagnosed with cancer. Over the past few years he has been on his wish trip, which was sooooo amazing I cannot even put it into words!! We did go to Disney!! But they do so much for the kiddos and sibling as well! We look forward to the holiday parties where we get to be around all the other wish families! They r just the best hands down!!
The rainbow connection granted me a wish when I was 16 years old and battling a rare form of cancer. I am now 26 and healthy, I cannot thank the Rainbow Connection enough for the support they showed my family and I.
Awesome, Awesome,Awesome did I say Awesome Everyone and everything about the Rainbow Connection is awesome!!
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My family is so honored and greatful to be apart of Rainbow Connection wish for families. It's nice knowing someone cares enough to ease your mind whether it's baseball/football games plays Disney trips etc when families are going through such a difficult time that brings some normalcy to your family
Rainbow connection granted my nephew a Disney world trip after his year long cancer battle at 3yrs old. He’s been cancer free for 6 years and they are still active and supportive with our family. They are so generous to keep rewarding families with local fun days, sport events , and family activities like Disney on Ice tickets . We will forever support this charity and pay it forward to help other kids with granting wishes. Rainbow connection angels become friends and family for life.
Rainbow Connection has been beyond amazing from the beginning of our Grandson being diagnosed through his whole journey, showing love, caring & kindness. Including his Wish Trip which was amazing for the whole family. It truly warms my heart to see & know what they do to make these kids ( & families) feel some joy during a very difficult time. Thank you for all you do!!
We were referred to rainbow connection from mott's hospital in 2019 when my son was diagnosed with Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor (IMT). They were amazing, they gave us a unforgettable trip to Disney, Universal and sea world. We stayed at Give kids the world. They payed for our trip down and trip back and it was so nice to forget about my son's illness and let him be a kid again. We will forever be thankful for rainbow connection and what they did for our family. They have also given us tickets to events like baseball games, concerts, see Santa and so much more. I can't say enough good things about them! Thank you for all you did for us especially Kristin. ❤️
We were referred to The Rainbow Connection in 2020 when my daughter, Sophie was diagnosed with cancer. They were a bright light in a very dark time for us. Since then, they still remain active in our lives. Even though Sophie is now in remission, she (and our whole family) still get invited to participate in fun things to do like the yearly picnic, sports events and countless other local activities. It has been a pleasure and quite the blessing to work with such an amazing organization. Thank you all for all that you do. It definitely does NOT go unnoticed. ♥️♥️♥️
We were introduced to The Rainbow Connection shortly after our son was born and the support that we have received has been genuinely amazing. The staff is compassionate, available, communicative, and they always remember our name. I often thought "WOW" out of all the families they serve, how could they remember our names. They make everyone involved feel special and they help so many. We enjoy the many gatherings and volunteering opportunities whenever we can. I have even referred other families who have come to love The Rainbow Connection, just as we have. Our son Titan is our little warrior and will be 4 in a few months and we would like to thank The Rainbow Connection for being a part of our village.
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We were referred to Rainbow Connection after our son Titan was diagnosed with Trisomy 9 Mosaic Syndrome and they have been such a blessing to our family. Rainbow Connection granted Titan his first professional photo shoot since he was in NICU for 4 months after birth he did not have the usual baby pictures and when Titan needed his own seating in our home, they found a donor to purchase a much needed tomato seat for him. Kristen and Ingrid are always available and have such kind spirits.❤️❤️❤️
The rainbow connection is a great organization they gave my family a wonderful experience at Disney world and other outings we appreciate all that they do and the smiles it put on our daughter face during her healing times we appreciate you all to the fullest keep up the awesome work ❤️
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Rainbow connection has been such a blessing to my daughter and family my daughter was
diagnoised with lymphoma cancer in 2020 during the pandemic and we were going thru some hard times but rainbow filled my daughters childhood dreams of going to Disney world where we all had the time of our lives thanks so much for caring for me and my Family we truly will never forget it.
My son was diagnosed with cancer. The Rainbow Connection was an invaluable resource. They support families in any way they can. My son was also granted his wish which was a once in a lifetime experience.
Rainbow Connection has well-organized events, a variety of events, and the staff is warm and friendly. I've been volunteering with them for over ten years, and I will continue to do so. In addition to to experiencing fun events, I am addicted to the gratification I feel, knowing I've helped these families in some small way.
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I've been volunteering with The Rainbow Connection for over 12 years, and plan to keep volunteering because it is so gratifying, seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of kids and their families. It is heart-warming to see the kids' faces light up with joy, and to see the happy reactions of their parents and siblings.
I keep volunteering because the staff at The Rainbow Connection is so kind and helpful and so focused on the kids. They are a creative staff, very organized, and are warm and friendly.
I especially enjoy the Christmas Party for the kids and their families, and the preparations for the party. There are usually over 100 families, and each child in the family gets an age-appropriate gift from Santa, individually wrapped. There are crafts and games, and a photo with Santa. A magic show, too! And pizza, chicken wings, salad, and cookies for everyone.
It is a complete delight to see the fashion show at the annual Celebration of Dreams, too. The children (who are various ages and both boys and girls) get to shop at Wal-Mart, select several outfits, and then model each outfit on the runway, and get to keep the outfits they've selected. Some add a little flounce or pirouette while on the runway, to the delight of the attendees.
I volunteer because it is fun!
Love working with this great group supporting our local communities and helping bring children and families together during difficult times.
It is heartwarming to be able to meet some of the receiptients of these gifts. We've never left an event without feeling blessed and honored to be able to participate in some way.
I volunteer there and not only is it a wonderful, caring non profit for children, the people who work there are extraordinary and give so much of themselves for these children
Rainbow Connection went above and beyond anything I expected! Not only did they grant my daughter's wish, we also received help during the holidays. I can't thank them enough!!
Best experience ever! Not only have they helped our family when we needed it but they were thoughtful in everything that are family faces on a daily basis. Thank you again Rainbow Connection!
Rainbow Connection had gone above and beyond for our family! Truly, their connections, attention to detail and efficiency are amazing. Kristen has been thorough, kind and supportive in every way she can. We have nothing but positives to say about this organization!!
After our son was diagnosed with ALL at age 6, our world was flipped upside down. The Rainbow Connection was a beacon of light during some dark times. Nancy was our Wish Coordinator (now retired) and she made sure our son’s Wish Trip was incredibly memorable for all 4 of us. Now 10 years Cancer Free, I am grateful for all they did for us and Volunteer as much as possible. My family wants to make sure all kids and their families are given the support & moments of happiness that we experienced.
After the scariest two years of our lives when my three year old was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, the Rainbow connection was there for the whole family. Yes, my daughter wished to see the Princesses and we went to Disney. But it really helped the whole family! We all smiled together, laughed together. Forgot to worry. Forgot to cry. Honestly, without that reprieve, it would have been much more difficult to handle the relapse. AND I got to spend a whole week of fun with my son whom I hadn’t been around much as I was always in the hospital with my daughter. Here’s a 5 yr old Samantha, but after 7 years of chemo and radiation, she is now a 21 year old young lady applying to grad schools so she can cure cancer!! And can’t forget to mention that Rainbow Connection helped her with some college scholarships!! We will never forget Rainbow Connection and especially Ingrid!!
The Rainbow Connection reaches out to help families with children who have medical conditions, to enjoy a stress free wish of their choice and other assistance throughout the year.
When our almost 5 year old daughter Mary was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia during the beginning of Covid-our world flipped upside down. We considered ourselves a typical family of 5: faith centered, hardworking family who gives back to our community. We were all shocked and scared to our core. With Mary’s treatment and surgery starting the very next morning, we were treading life’s water. Learning things we never wanted to know and leaning on our friends and family more than ever before. We were shells of our former selves. Our jobs and incomes were in jeopardy as our main focus shifted completely to Mary’s health and the emotional well-being of our family. Our hospital social worker referred us to The Rainbow Connection and the next day we received a call with someone who was “over the moon” excited to talk to us! It was refreshing! From that moment on, we truly have felt like a member of their family. It’s been so comforting to take part in all of their fun and well planned events. They have given us something to look forward to especially when things get tough. Holiday gift baskets, meeting Santa, private urban airtime when our girl was too sick to be around others, receiving “happy packages” when Mary could use a pick-me-up, to yearly wish family picnics, these have all been some of our favorites! The icing on the cake has been our Mary receiving her WISH! I’ll never forget the day she was told she could wish for anything as she was coming out of anesthesia afterwards chemotherapy was placed into her spine. Without hesitation the beautiful once blonde then bald 5 year old yelled with magic in her eyes, “Disney!” It was from that moment on, the amazing people at TRC began planning a trip of a lifetime. Mary’s wish was a fairytale from start to finish. As her parents we were floating again watching her and her brothers, but this time for much better reason. We watched our three kids smile ear to ear, laugh, squeal and most of all enjoy just being kids with no extra thoughts that cancer causes. The Rainbow Connection has meant family and hope to us. They provide families like ours with reminders that there is so much good in this world that cancer can’t steal. We had a beautiful, life changing trip that our family will never forget. Mary was able to celebrate all that she overcame. Our hearts are forever grateful to be a part of this amazing organization that has truly helped us far beyond a family trip of a lifetime but every step of the way through the deep trenches of life. It is our absolute honor to share all the good that The Rainbow Connection does and we will continue to do so, all our years to come.
Laura and Craig Ottenbacher
Richmond Township, Michigan
Rainbow Connection sent our family of 7 on a wish trip to Disney World. My youngest daughter was diagnosed with Burkitts Lymphoma and told about a wish trip the same day. It gave her, as well as our family, something to look forward to as she fought cancer. We took our trip in 2019 & it will forever be the best trip our family has been on!
Braydon is my youngest son he was diagnosed with severe brain damage and cerebral palsy at birth . Since we’ve been apart of the rainbow connection family it has been nothing less than all smiles for my family . We were able to enjoy a nice trip to Disney world sea world and Orlando studios really a once in a lifetime dream for my children and me too lol Kristen , nevin, and Deanna were so supportive and kept in touch the entire time in the trip. The rainbow connection is something wonderful to be apart of we get invited to shows l, carnivals, sports games and etc. I’m glad my family is apart of them now they are all really good people and love to help out as much as they can
This organization , the staff , the mission and execution of this wonderful team are all amazing. We love and appreciate all of you. Ava Williams and Family
Rainbow Connection granted my little brother's wish in 1989. I'm not sure how it all happened as I was a child at the time, but I know our whole family was able to make phenomenal memories. My brother loved going to the San Diego Zoo, and said he was happy there weren't any doctors there. Sadly he passed a couple of months after the trip. Since I've been an adult I have been a donor and help to spread the word about this amazing nonprofit.
A great Michigan nonprofit who not only grants wishes to seriously ill children, but supports them and their families year round!
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I have been involved with The Rainbow Connection for over 20 years. 15 years through my union/employment doing fundraising and supporting them. Following retirement, I have had much more time to volunteer for them directly.
They are a lean, top-notch group of people working hard to help Michigan children with life-threatening illnesses. They not only grant wishes for these children and their families, but support them in many other ways. Such a great cause and a great place to volunteer!
Rainbow connection is the most amazing organization that give us the best experience for my son’s wish in March.My son passed way at the and of August but we enjoyed our time on Disney and we gonna keep those memories in or whole lifetime.
Camila was only 4 years old when she was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor.
The Children's hospital social worker refered us to Rainbow Connection.
While Camila was in treatment, Nancy visited us in the Hospital.
Nancy asked me what was Camila's dream?
I thought what wonderful it will be if my little girl met her favorite Disney princesses.
After her treatment Nancy set up everything for our Disney trip.
Camila and I have very good memories of our magic Disney experience. Thanks Nancy, Ingrid and all the Rainbow Connection team.
May God bless you all.❤️
The Rainbow Connection is a class act. They are such a positive influence to our community and for the children they help.
My son will be granted a wish in the near future. They are waiting until he is well enough to travel.
Rainbow Connection has been wonderful so far. Their staff is incredibly friendly, and they make my son light up with joy, which is rare these days.
The Rainbow Connection has been a huge blessing to our family, granting my son’s wish to meet Mickey Mouse in Florida. Even though our trip was delayed several times due to COVID, TRC was there for us and kept our hope alive. They are an amazing organization and we are so lucky to have them in our lives!
I have worked with the The Rainbow Connection, in partnership, with two different organizations that I have managed.
With over a decade of experience with the fine folks at the Rainbow Connection , I have ALWAYS seen an organization that is devoted to direct service, ever expanding their scope of service and staffed by the most positive and enthusiastic team members and volunteers.
You will not find a more honorable, ethical and positive organization. This group provides a badly needed and valuable set of services and support to their wish children and their families.
Linda Walter
We have two boys with a rare lifelong medical condition. Rainbow connection has been nothing but loving and genuinely concerned about them. While each boy’s wish being granted was certainly a highlight, this mommas heart was moved by their love, care, and generosity before and after. If their goal is truly to take a devastating diagnosis and turn it into something beautiful, they have been successful. We appreciate each staff member and how well they have loved our family.
Amazing organization! They have gone above and beyond for my family. Giving us so many memorable experiences that we can not thank them enough.
My daughter asked, “can I make a wish trip request?” On her own, at age 13 she went on line, filled out The Rainbow Connection’s application (with a little help). We didn’t expect to hear anything for a long time but, within a week Ingrid called and set up a meeting. Tatiana came bearing gifts galore and explored options. April settled on a Disney trip. Scheduled to go in just a few months time, Covid got in the way. That didn’t stop The Rainbow Connection. Zoom event, goodies mailed out and regular contact kept April in the loop and busy with wonderful interactions. In January 2021, just 3 months after our scheduled planned trip, The Rainbow Connection called, ready to send us to Give Kids The World and Disney. I cannot begin to tell you the lasting impact this Wish trip has had on all of us. April’s wish trip was magical from start to finish. The Rainbow Connection thought of everything. It was an absolutely perfect trip and filled with the most wonderful people from the flight crew to Give Kids The World Village (GKTW)volunteers and of course the theme parks. April experienced so many new things. She sleeps nightly with one of her “gifts”, Toad from Mario Kart tucked into a small pillow she got at GKTW, The Rainbow Connection doesn’t just stop with creating the most incredible, magical trip you can imagine. They continue to stay in touch, offering additional opportunities to engage in activities throughout the year. The Rainbow Connection is like family at Christmas time. Always exciting opportunities.
We just got home from our Wish trip. We could never have imagined just how magical the entire trip would be. All three of our kids were treated like royalty. We can never say thank you enough to The Rainbow Connection for making our sons Wish come true.
On November 19, 2019 Doctors told us that our son needed to be placed on a Transplant list and would need a new liver to survive. This was a very scary time for us. He was born with the liver disease and we always knew that this day may come but you are never really prepared to watch your child suffer even more or hand your son over to surgeons and hope the outcome is good in 11 hrs.
Rainbow Connection was contacted and immediately tried to help in anyway they could. And let me tell you to try and do what they have done all during a Pandemic has been amazing. Granting wishes for teenagers is hard and trying to make sure that they feel special also is just as hard but Rainbow Connection has figured it out. Just to see the smirk on his face or the glimmer in his eyes has been wonderful. He has also said that it was nice to “just be a kid and have fun”. Our sons wish was granted and we are still part of the Rainbow Connection family and it truly means the world to us.
The rainbow connection is such a support to my family. It’s not just a wish granting organization sending kiddos to Disney, they support the whole family! The staff are amazing and kind.
The Rainbow Connection made such a huge impact on not only our daughters life, but our sons and ours also. The picture of her in the hospital was what we dealt with most of her life. As parents we would never not be with her so this left her younger brother often staying with family members and missing out on alot of time as a family. The week we spent in Disney @ GKTW was a time for us to reconnect as a family and gave us a week without worry. She told us the reason she chose this trip was for her brother too and nothing is better than seeing your kids bond. Makes a parents heart full ♥. Her wish was in 2018 and the Rainbow Connection has still helped her as she grows into adulthood. TRC granted her a scholarship which has helped significantly. We ne she we go to college and she is attending college, is in Phi Theta Kappa and is fulfilling all the things we feared she never would be able to do.
I am a volunteer for The Rainbow Connection. There are millions of charities raising money for millions of worth causes. I chose Rainbow because, even though I do not have children, I can only imagine how devastating it would be to have a child with a life-threatening disease. Rainbow not only grants a child's wish, but supports the family as well. I am impressed with the way they approach fundraising & I like how they involve the recipients AND their families at the events.
The Rainbow Connection grants wishes to so many children. I see and feel their compassion toward these kids and its impossible to not want to volunteer and help them in all of their efforts.
I have both volunteered time with the Rainbow Connection as well as sponsored wishes. The staff is wonderful to work with.
I personally know two children who had a wish fulfilled. The joy this organisation brings to the children and their families is priceless.
I have had the pleasure to volunteer for this amazing organization. I have seen first hand the good work they do for families in need. They are humble people whose purpose is to be able bring joy to children who are enduring life altering illnesses. Making memories through the illness is an important part of healing for the entire family.
I signed up for a walk at the Detroit Zoo over 10 years ago that was sponsored by this Charity. I had not heard of it before that day. The walk was wonderful, the people were so nice, cheerful, and just happy. At the end of the walk, families spoke of the kindness they received when going through awful times with the various sickness'. I ended up sticking around to learn more. Many of the volunteers that I met were healthy survivors that now were now giving back. The amount amazed me, and made me want to help. Each time I volunteer, I come back with more stories to relay about the different wishes granted. It is so fun to see what wish these kids have, and the delight when receiving. It makes me happy just thinking about it now.
I have had the pleasure to be involved with this wonderful charity for over 30 years. It is well run and the mission is beyond reproach!
From the moment we met Ingrid we fell in love with The Rainbow Connection. The staff are incredibly loving and energetic. The organization serves to bring light and connection to families with children experiencing major medical illnesses. Through our involvement we met families with similar experiences, enjoyed events meant to bring a little 'normal' to our lives, and of course, went on an INCREDIBLE wish trip. Having a wish trip to look forward to gave my son optimism and hope during a very difficult journey. There was something amazing awaiting him after all the medical treatments. More than that, the wish trip gave our family something to look forward to and a chance to connect in a fun, light-hearted way. I absolutely recommend The Rainbow Connection! Through your involvement you will build friendship and community, and have opportunities to support your child in fun ways that bring relief from their medical journey.
The Rainbow Connection is ONE OF A KIND! They fulfilled my wish as a 19 year old cancer survivor. Every detail was taken care of and all with a smile. The best part is that years down the line we are still invited to events and offered free tickets to many fun attractions many times throughout the year. Charity dollars that are given to The Rainbow Connection go very far and touch children and families in ways that cannot be measured. Thank you for all your hard work!
Rainbow Connection was there to pick us up from our worst nightmare. No one cares for sick kids like the folks at Rainbow. We are forever grateful!
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Rainbow Connection is a wonderful nonprofit organization that granted a wish for my terminally ill child and continues to support him now that he is well and in college. They have even provided scholarship money to attend classes. The Rainbow Connection works tirelessly to keep cheering him on even six years after his illness! Our family is so fortunate and grateful to receive this support!
Rainbow connection is so great. They made my daughters trip so special. She felt like for once there was no pokes or doctors but lots of fun.
Rainbow made my daughter's dream come true!! Her wish was to see One Direction in concert on her birthday. Dreams do come true. My daughter was going through chemo treatment for lymphoma cancer but her dreams came true. Thank you so much Rainbow Connection!!
Our son, Samuel, was granted a wish trip through Rainbow Connection. He was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was 1 year old. By the time he was granted his wish trip at 7, he had been in and out of the hospital several times every year. That particular year he was really struggling to recover and spent over 200 days in the hospital. His trip was an amazing getaway for our entire family. It was a time to laugh, relax, and enjoy life in the midst of this very difficult disease. Samuel loved Legoland and all the special places we went to. In fact, he still looks forward to the yearly summer picnic Rainbow Connection does for the wish kids and families. We can’t say enough amazing things about this organization. We are so grateful!!
What Rainbow Connection did for us was help put life back in our lives. My son's wish was to go to Disney World, it was a trip of the lifetime,. After we came back they continued to help for years. They gave my son and the family memories that will last forever. Words can't describe how much we appreciated all that Rainbow Connection did for us. They are truly amazing.
They have exceeded our expectations for our son who was diagnosed with a Mixed Germ Cell Tumor stage 3. The staff is very kind and friendly. The staff makes sure to encourage the children and the parents at a time when it is really needed.
Rainbow Connection came into our family in March of 2016. Our son was home bound so there was not a trip planned in our future.We tried to decide what our ill child's favorite thing is. He loved water and loved it hot. We tried to get a pool but unfortunately it was a bigger idea and the expense was too costly. So, Ingrid was able to get us a hot tub. We received the first hot tub damaged along with the second one damaged. Finally, Ingrid, who is wonderful, went to a hot tub store and purchased one for us from another company. Unfortunately, Dominic passed in the process of getting this hot tub and now we enjoy the hot tub as a family and know that our son is watching over us.
Rainbow Connection gave us a gift we will cherish for years to come and make memories and know that every time we look at the hot tub or are in the hot tub our son Dominic will always be with us.
Rainbow Connection fulfilled my daughter's dream of building a play cottage/retreat in our backyard when she was struggling through treatment for metastatic cancer. They were professional and compassionate.
Rainbow Connection reached out to our family in such a special way and granted our warrior son Eli the wish of a lifetime. Just weeks before his 8th birthday- in the midst of battling Leukemia diagnosed when he was 5- we boarded a plane headed to Give Kids The World. The trip was amazing! The memories we made are still hanging on his bedroom walls now that he is cancer free and 12 years old. That trip gave us joy and laughter, time to breathe and not worry about the beast of cancer that invaded our world. It blessed us with being able to make new memories in the time of our new normal. It brought us closer to eachother and allowed us the opportunity to celebrate life and not have to worry about the financial burdens that weighed us down. Eli felt special- not because of a diagnosis- but because he was able to be treated to the fun and excitement that the wish he was granted brought to him. We continue to be so grateful to our wish coordinators, donors and all the volunteers who do so much to give children and families a glimmer of hope through this amazing organization.
My daughter was granted a wish 3 years ago, it was a huge part of our entire family's healing process. My daughter still talks about being treated like royalty when we were at Disney. The trip was what my wife and I needed as well, we were able to go and just be parents not worry about the hospital bills that were piled up and the short checks from not working full weeks, honestly money wasn't talked about at all. We were able to enjoy our children and not talk about Dr's or procedures. We truly enjoyed the smiles from when we were picked up in the limo until it brought us back home. We have done multiple fundraisers for this charity and our family has raised 20k back to help other families heal or spend a week forgetting about what is around the corner. I personally know parents that this was the last trip with their sick child, and the memories are therapeutic for them as well.
Our son has CYSTIC Fibrosis. He had a wish trip and it was amazing!!! But even after, with each birthday, hospital stay, they still send him care packages and it keeps us talking and reminiscing about the week we were free from CF...thank you Rainbow connection
Best wish foundation ever. We had a wonderful wish trip for our son!!! Every to grateful to Ingrid and the Rainbow Connection
My son was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at 18 months old when he was 3 the Rainbow Connection paid for his trip to disney world . It was the best thing that he ever experienced. The Rainbow Connection is a very great organization & I am so glad that I was able to work with them during this tough time in my child's life.
Rainbow Connection provided our daughter, Emily, a magical trip to Disney. Our daughter had a rare disease called Mitochondrial. She has gone through so much through out her young life. Ingrid, Wish Director, was so compassionate and so helpful to Emily’s needs and made the trip such a wonderful memory for our family as a whole. Ingrid and the team made sure Emily had all the necessary equipment on site and helped us ship all the rest of her medical supplies to where we were staying. It can be stressful to make sure our daughter has all the necessary equipment and not forget anything. The team made it easy for me to make sure she was taken care of.
Our daughter loved all the experiences that Rainbow Connection offered. The Michigan State Fair, Christmas Family Party, and the Summer Family Picnic was her favorites. The team is an extended family to our family. They helped us make memories with our daughter that I will cherish forever.
Roberto received a wish from rainbow connection in 2016 he went to legoland and the other disney parks un Florida. We needed that break from treatment. The rainbow connection organization is a god send for families who would not itherwise be able to take their children on a family vacation because of their child's illness.
Approximately 4 years ago my then 8 year old granddaughter was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma. This is a very aggressive cancer that starts in your muscles. Three months earlier my husband was diagnosed with throat cancer. I was at my wits end. On top of the uncertainty of both diagnoses-it put us in a terrible financial strain. In talking with another parent in the oncology ward-she recommended Rainbow Connection. It is an organization that grants wish trips to children with life threatening illnesses. I contacted Rainbow and spoke with Nancy-who came out to our home and interviewed our family. The organization-along with their sponsors sent us on an all expense paid trip to Disneyworld. We were put up in a fully furnished condo in a village with other children that were ill. The village had a full service kitchen that was like a restaurant that prepared all our meals-free of charge. We even had an ice cream parlor on premises. We were given tkts to all 3 Disney parks as well as Universal Studios. We were even given spending money. For the children too sick to visit the parks or wheelchair bound children-there were numerous activities throughout the day such as beach parties at the pool.They had a splashpad specifically designed for wheelchairs. They designated certain days as xmas day etc. They had a snow machine and Santa and gave out gifts. Unbelievably friendly courteous staff. The smiles on the childrens faces were wonderful to see. No hassles-no worries. One week away from all the hospitals treatments crying worry and dread. Rainbow Connection also hosts events throughout the year for the children recovering and in remission. My granddaighter is currently in remission. I cannot thabk Rainbow Connection enough.
Cindy Wallace
When our son was sick they granted a fantastic wish trip to Disney World and the other theme parks that included 4 days at Give Kids The World and 4 nights at the Polynesian in Disney World where he could watch the fireworks every night. He was given money to spend on whatever he wanted and theme park tickets to multiple theme parks to see everything he wanted to see! We received complimentary pictures from the photographers at every park too. He was treated like a king for a week. They even came to take to the airport in a limo! He had a wonderful time during a very sad and stressful time of his life young life. While he was in treatment they even sent him a box of goodies during the roughest times to make it easier for him and give him something positive to look forward to. Now that he is well again and heading to college he will get a scholarship just for having been one of the wish kids. I can't recommend this organization any more highly, it is one of the best of the best. We are so grateful to them for everything they did to make his trip memorable for all of us.
RC granted my son a wish when he wasn't even expecting it! He was diagnosed with a rare tumor in the summer of 2015, underwent two surgeries to remove them and then found out that although they were benign due to their aggressive nature to return chemotherapy was his best option. As a student athlete he didn't want to miss school or participation in his sports (track and football). He found out that he was a wish candidate near the end of his junior year of high school. In 2016 he wanted to attend the worlds largest gaming expo aka E3 in Los Angeles but after visiting the site saw that it was for trade/industry people only and that you had to be 18 and older neither of which he was. After some communication from RC however, my son Justin and his brother were on their way to an experience a lifetime. They received VIP Treatment from beginning to end. Justin met industry people, gaming developers, Microsoft execs and even had photos taken with the CEO of xBox. It was absolutely incredible. An opportunity that my family and I will never forget.
Today Justin is healthy and looking forward to attending college in the fall.
I don't think our experience with The Rainbow Connection could have been better! Our daughter, who has two life threatening conditions plus other issues, chose to go to Orlando and the parks for her wish. Ingrid, our wonderful Rainbow Connection coordinator, took care of everything. We had one issue (not with Rainbow Connection) that Ingrid worked very hard to resolve. It really was the trip of a lifetime and I cherish the memories of that week!
Also, The Rainbow Connection gives families the opportunity to attend events (theater, pro sporting events, parties, etc.) for free, which has also been wonderful for my daughter and our family! Last year they even arranged for us to ride on Santa's float for our town's Christmas parade! This is an outstanding organization and I have no reservations in recommending and supporting them!
Rainbow connection is a wonderful attribute to the community. They make it there best interest to fulfill, each child's wish. I am proud to have been a part of this experience with them. I am thankful to them, for everything they do.
The rainbow connection is our family. From day 1 they’ve done everything they told us they would do. My son James stage 3 brain cancer which is not only hard on him but it has been hard for me also. The Rainbow Connections has entered our life and literally turned it around. From helping with bills to sending us to Disney world last summer. Which James really loved. We made so many memories. Last by but not least Christmas last year was a surprise as well as a blessing. The Rainbow connection partnered with a local business and gave us the most special and most beautiful and heart felt Christmas ever. I literally felt like a big kid. We were showered with lots of beautiful gifts. The rainbow connection is an organization of ANGELS their hearts are so big and warm. We love them so much. Thank you again
Lauren
The Rainbow Connection was a way for us to have hope and something to look forward too as our son was going through his treatments. They often cheered him up with notes, gifts, surprise invites to special events and SO much more!
Their staff is caring, comforting and truly makes each child feel special. They brought sunshine and smiles to so many cloudy days!
This is a great organization that truly cares for kids and their families!
They made our family feel loved. They made our special needs daughter wish truly amazing all the people involved were kind beyond levels of kindness. They continue to be very sweet to us. There just Amazing !!! That why we volunteer for there events because we could never repay them for there kindness.
Rainbow Connection is simply amazing. I was diagnosed with cancer at age 18, so I didn't even think I qualified for a wish. My case manager Ingrid was so incredibly nice and accommodating. Not only did my family and I get to go to Hawaii for free, we were able to stay at the exact hotel I wanted, and they gave us cash to spend on food, excursions, and paddle boarding lessons! They also arranged all transportation, and even had gift bags waiting in our room along with a welcome fruit and cheese platter. Easily the best family vacation ever, all thanks to Rainbow Connection.
Rainbow connection provided my son the trip on a lifetime on a Disney cruise ! The are the kindest people and have the biggest hearts :)
Rainbow connection staff are kind, they listen, they help explore every possible opportunity to help families do the impossible for their children. My child was honored with a long overdue shopping spree in which I would not have been otherwise able to afford, for my growing warrior prince. I'm so grateful for this organization.
The Rainbow Connection really made our journey a little bit better! When my brother was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma our world seemed as if it had fell apart before our very eyes. However, when being connected with the Rainbow Connection they were able to cheer my brother up a little along the way. They gave him something to look forward to with all of the things going on around him, they gave ALL of us something to look forward to. Our trip to Disney in Orlando was one to remember! And the fun did not stop there, we were always invited to other events held within the state. All of them great and fun events! We will FOREVER be thankful for The Rainbow Connection. Even after my brother flew away to heaven we are still considered a part of the Rainbow Connection; THANK YOU FOR THE BRIGHT SMILES, THE GREAT TIMES, AND THE GOOD YOU DO FOR EVERY FAMILY IN TIME OF DARKNESS!
The Rainbow Connection is a wonderful organization. When my son was diagnosed at age 15 of Hodgkins Lymphoma The Rainbow Connection went above and beyond in making sure he was cared about, he was not alone and fulfilled his wish. Before and after his wish was granted The Rainbow Connection kept in contact with him ... he has a friend for life. THANK YOU!!!
These are the nicest people you will ever meet. We love the Rainbow Connection and are so thankful for all the opportunities they have given our family. Such a wonderful organization and I love to support them.
Real people who cares! they go over and beyond for their wish families not just support for the sick child but for the whole family. my son had end stage renal failure and they were so thoughtful, these children who are confined needs something to look forward to. it gave my son hope. every time things got ruff they were there to let me know I was not alone! Thank God for The Rainbow Connection!
I got in contact with the Rainbow connection February 2016 and my daughter's wish trip to Disney was granted and we went in May of 2016. She was three at the time and will be five very soon and still talks about it. She got sick while on the trip and our wish coordinator called to make sure she was going to be ok. Their events are wonderful as well. Very accomdating and generous to all. Can't say enough good things about this organization. They are doing great things.