Frank "Bopsy" Salazar - The First "Make-A-Wish" Child
Frank “Bopsy” Salazar was the Foundation’s first official wish kid. Like Chris, he was a 7-year-old diagnosed with leukemia and revered people in uniform – he wanted to be a firefighter. The first wish-granting team started with the Phoenix Fire Department, which made him a full uniform, including turnouts and a helmet. He joined Engine 9’s ladder truck; the crew let him blare the horn and douse cars with the 75-pound hose. At the end of the day, the firefighters pinned his official firefighter’s badge on his uniform, making Bopsy the city’s first honorary firefighter. But there was more to come. Media coverage of Bopsy’s wish made others want to help, and more offers came in from people eager to lift his spirits. Chris and Bob Pearce, hot-air balloon pilots and owners, then took Bopsy on an unforgettable ride with a bird’s-eye view of Phoenix.

Next, Disneyland created a special day complete with private tours, meals, gifts and more. This marked the beginning of the Make-A-Wish Foundation's magical relationship with Disney. Visiting a Disney park remains the Foundation's most requested wish, and Disney continues to be one of the Foundation's most generous supporters. Bopsy returned to the hospital after his trip to Disneyland. As he slept in his third-floor room, someone knocked on his window and opened it. Five of his fellow Phoenix firefighters climbed through using the ladder on the truck parked below. Bopsy shared a few laughs with his friends before going back to sleep with a smile on his face. Later that evening, Bopsy passed away – but not before seeing his fondest wishes come true.