Nearly 100 wish stories have connected children with critical illnesses to their sports heroes, inspiring millions of viewers over two decades
PHOENIX, July 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ESPN and Make-A-Wish® are celebrating the 20th anniversary of granting sports wishes through the award-winning "My Wish" series, one of the longest-running and most beloved storytelling features on SportsCenter. Since debuting in 2006, the series has brought viewers inside nearly 100 wish journeys, showcasing the powerful connections between children facing critical illnesses and the athletes and teams they admire most.
Beginning July 19, "My Wish" returns, following five children as their wishes unfold from the first surprise through the moment they meet their sports heroes. Over the years, the series has featured some of the biggest names in sports while highlighting the hope, joy and strength that wishes can bring to children and families during challenging times.
For two decades, "My Wish" has served as a signature collaboration between ESPN and Make-A-Wish, sharing stories of courage, resilience and joy with millions of viewers. The series has featured professional athletes, championship teams and sports legends across every major league, creating unforgettable experiences for children and families while raising awareness of the life-changing impact of a wish.
2026 "My Wish" Series Schedule
Sunday, July 19, at 8:00 a.m. ET: Eighteen-year-old Khloe of Louisiana, who underwent a liver and kidney transplant due to a genetic disorder, is unable to play basketball competitively, but her wish to meet A'ja Wilson gives her a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience what it's like to be a professional basketball player.
Monday, July 20, at 7:00 a.m. ET: After undergoing three open-heart surgeries, 12-year-old Caleb of Virginia took up golf when team sports became too physically challenging, and his wish brings him on the course for one-on-one time with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and some amazing surprises.
Tuesday, July 21, at 7:00 a.m. ET: Diagnosed with leukemia at age three, Mississippi native Ledger meets his favorite WWE superstar Seth Rollins, as his "Ledger the Great" persona becomes an instant sensation and a tribute to his inner strength.
Wednesday, July 22, at 7:00 a.m. ET: Victoria, a 12-year-old baseball fan from New Mexico, was born with a neurological condition and has faced significant medical challenges and numerous operations throughout her life, including a kidney transplant, but doesn't let anything slow her down. Her wish includes her first visit to an MLB stadium—Petco Park—where the San Diego Padres host an unforgettable day with her favorite player, Fernando Tatis Jr.
Thursday, July 23, at 7:00 a.m. ET: Sixteen-year-old Bailey of Tennessee, who found new hope through a kidney transplant and watching Vols football, experiences a magical game day inside the Tennessee program surrounded by players, coaches and fans.