Wish upon some Stars

If you were to turn on the news, you would see and hear stories of robbery, murder, extortion, corruption, and something dumb that some politician said. All of these aspects of the real world are the negative aspects that fills our world and makes the 24 hour media cycle go like the energizer bunny. And the world of sports has similar moments. In between the highlights of games there is analysis of scandal, athletes' finances, and the judgement of players dirty laundry when it is held up under the media microscope. But for one week, one very special week in the middle of July every year, Sportscenter goes out of its way to present a delightful change of pace from the regular media routine. The stories that are presented to the public do portray struggle, but these stories show that for one moment in time, athletes can impact people in such a positive way.

These stories are from Sportscenter's 'My Wish' series, and these are some of the coolest stories in sports.

 Children with life altering illnesses that range from leukemia, blood disorders, testicular cancer, and dilated cardiomopathy share their stories with the world. The tales portray the lives of these children before they are struck with crippling sicknesses. How hours, days, even years in hospitals change these young children filled with energy, suddenly evaporates from their bodies due to the diseases. And finally when these kids get out of the hospitals, the energy that fueled them has been drained away. 

But the other side of a story that can be seen in a 'My Wish' story is the athlete's role in the life of the ill child. How characteristics like Tim Tebow's toughness, Bethany Hamilton's courage, and every athlete's kindness to take the time out of their busy lives to make these young children feel special. 

But the side of the 'My Wish' stories that do not get played up nearly as much is the effect that these encounters have on the athletes and the audiences. For the players who dedicated their time to helping these kids, a life long personal bond can be formed, while sometimes the athletes discover a deeper impact that their on field performances have on all of their fans. For those of us who have never heard of these kids, for seven short minutes, we receive an uplifting outlook on how athletes can use their influence on a positive way. How not all athletes are self centered individuals who would rather take a bashing from their town's media than interact with their fans. And why the world of sports can provide a safe sanctuary in which everyone no matter what the size, shape, or race of one person can enjoy.