I wish to meet Jackie Chan 

Alessandro, Age 12, Italy
Twelve-year-old Alessandro loves kung-fu movies, especially those featuring his favorite movie star - Jackie Chan. He applied for a wish from Make-A-Wish Foundation^® Italy and asked to meet Jackie Chan. With the help of a Make-A-Wish Foundation® Hong Kong, a call was made to Jackie’s management office in Hong Kong. Jackie welcomed his little fan’s visit. However, during this time of year, Jackie spends time in Beijing, so he suggested bringing Alessandro there, so that his one true wish could come true right away!

Alessandro traveled to Beijing with his mother and elder brother, Antonio. This was their first trip to Beijing so they were all very excited and eager to see the tremendous capital city. They visited the Forbidden City, Tiananmen, the Great Wall, stadiums of 2008 Olympic Games and more!! However, the focus of his trip was to meet Alessandro’s big idol.

Arriving at Jackie’s hotel, Alessandro was very excited, but a bit nervous as he didn’t know how to speak English very well. When he was thinking of his questions, Jackie appeared in front of the family and gave everyone a big hug! Then, Jackie shared some of his most recent studio photos shot only a day earlier, giving Alessandro an insight into Jackie’s current work. The family was surprised yet again when Jackie gave them souvenirs, including tee shirts and rulers with movie films inside. Jackie signed every item and Alessandro treasured them very much. The family also brought a little gift from Italy to Jackie. All people there were touched by Alessandro and Jackie’s meeting.

When they thought it was almost time to leave, Jackie invited the family to have dinner with him. They were very surprised and excited to dine with a big star and to try Vietnamese food for the first time. Jackie showed Alessandro how to use chopsticks. Alessandro said “goodbye” to Jackie after taking a group photo with his family. On their way back to the hotel, Alessandro cried quietly and said, “I miss Jackie very much already!”

The family appreciated all of the Make-A-Wish volunteers involved in granting Alessandro’s wish. The family also enjoyed a stay at the beautiful Peninsula Beijing, with a VIP (Very Important Person) package under The Peninsula sponsorship – with stay in a luxury suite. “It was totally above of our expectations and we sincerely thank the generous offer from The Peninsula Beijing; they provided us with a perfect wish trip to Beijing,” said by mother of Alessandro.

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