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New Make-A-Wish Campaign Aims To Raise 2 Million Air Miles

BRIGHTON (WWJ) - Make-A-Wish Michigan on Wednesday kicked off Wishes in Flight, a campaign designed to raise more than two million air miles during the months of April and May to support wishes involving domestic and international travel.

Nearly 80 percent of Michigan wishes require air travel, making it a critical and costly resource. Organizers anticipate that more than 300 wishes will involve travel this year alone – that's more than 98 million airlines miles.

In Michigan, the average cost of a round-trip continental U.S. airline ticket is roughly $400 or 50,000 miles. The average international or Hawaii ticket ranges from $900 to $1,200.

Karen Davis, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Michigan, said its all about granting the heartfelt wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

"The donation of airline miles and dollars has a tremendous impact on our ability to reach more children and create life-changing wish experiences for them and their families," Davis said in a statement.

The Wishes in Flight campaign will culminate on World Wish Day on April 29.

Many major airlines -- including Delta, United and US Airways -- enable their frequent flier members to donate at no cost to Make-A-Wish. As an added incentive, WWE Superstar John Cena will personally match every frequent flier mile donated in April, up to 4.5 million miles. United Airlines will also support World Wish Day by matching the donations of its MileagePlus members, up to three million miles, through April 30.

Since 1984, Make-A-Wish Michigan has granted more than 7,000 wishes. This year, the goal is to reach more than 400 kids, which is a little more than one wish per day. Wish experiences can be pivotal points in the course of a child's treatment, helping them feel better and providing an emotional boost.

To donate dollars and frequent flier miles to benefit Michigan children, visit www.wishmich.org/wishesinflight.

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