Ben Orefice, a 17-year-old from Niantic, was surprised by Make A Wish with a parade and a boat at his home on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. He was diagnosed with lymphoma in January of 2020 and has been undergoing treatments. Orefice said when Make A Wish came to him he knew he didn't want a big trip or anything.  "I wanted something to share with friends and family for a long time, I wanted a boat," he said.

The boat, a Maritime 1480 Sport Skiff, was donated by Tasha and Paul Cusson of Atlantic Outboard. 

Pamela Keough, President & CEO of Make A Wish CT, said about 80 wishes are postponed right now, many due to travel restrictions amid COVID-19. "The world needs a little hope right now and that's what we're trying to do, help one kid at a time," she said. (Sarah Gordon / The Day)