SAT . From Hospital Bed to Outer Space: Michigan Boy Meets Astronaut Thanks to Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish Michigan, which grants life-changing experiences to children with critical illnesses, recently helped a young boy meet his favorite astronaut.
“Wishes give kids the strength to keep fighting and bring joy to their families,” the nonprofit organization said.
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Kaden met astronaut José Hernández and received VIP treatment during a guided NASA tour exploring space.
“Everything was amazing! Thank you! Kaden had a blast. My cheeks never hurt so much from smiling so hard,” his mom, Michele, said about the trip.
Hernández is a Mexican American engineer and astronaut who flew on the Space Shuttle mission STS-128 in August 2009. A book, “Reaching for the Stars: The Inspiring Story of a Migrant Farmworker Turned Astronaut,” and Prime Video’s movie, “A Million Miles Away,” highlight his inspirational story.
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The movie “A Million Miles Away,” which showcases Hernández’s resilience, inspired Kaden to never give up. His mom says “never giving up” has now become Kaden’s motto.
Kaden, 9, is being treated at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital for a cardiac condition in Grand Rapids.
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Make-A-Wish Michigan shared Kaden’s wish video at their Wish Ball Grand Rapids last week — raising $652,000 and counting to support their mission. The nonprofit organization has granted more than 12,000 wishes in Michigan thanks to supporters.
If you would like to support the cause and help make wishes come true as an individual donor, corporate sponsor, fundraising advocate or volunteer, visit their website at wish.org/michigan/help-make-wishes-come-true.
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May 16, 2025
Reporter
Crystal Huggins is a 2023 graduate of Delta College with an associate’s degree in electronic media broadcasting. During her time at Delta, she gained hands-on experience in media production and was recognized for her academic achievements, earning multiple honors. She has worked as a news producer and anchor for NEWSnet, where she delivered daily broadcasts for audiences in Hawaii, Northern Michigan, and Los Angeles. She also has experience in radio broadcasting, having served as a morning show producer and on-air personality for MacDonald Broadcasting. A mid-Michigan resident, Crystal is passionate about storytelling, multimedia content creation, and engaging audiences through digital and social media platforms.
