Martina McBride Grants Child with Muscular Dystrophy’s Dying Wish Before Passing Away

Margarida Azevedo, MSc avatar

by Margarida Azevedo, MSc |

The Kids Wish Network, an international charitable organization that grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions, recently congratulated one of its celebrity Guardian Angel Wish Sponsors for being selected to win a humanitarian award. American country singer and songwriter, Martina McBride, will receive the distinguished Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award from the Music Business Association (Music Biz) come May 2015 for her admirable work with the Network.

McBride played an integral role in the wish fulfilment of Ashley, who was diagnosed with mitochondrial disorder complex III – a serious and rare form of muscular dystrophy – when she was only 3 years old. Shortly after her diagnosis, her muscles began to rapidly deteriorate, and in September 2003, she had a stroke and subsequent pneumonia.

A huge fan of McBride, Ashley had the time of her life when she was given the opportunity to bond with the country singer. McBride also gladly sang Ashley’s “Concrete Angel” song request in a private concert, and had the little girl sing along with her. Despite barely having 15% lung capacity, Ashley sang her heart out with her idol with a big smile.

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Unfortunately, soon after Ashley’s wish was granted, she passed away. “She told me that she was happy and at peace because her wishes had been fulfilled,” said Ashley’s mom. “It was the happiest day of her life.”

martina mcbride“I believe that anyone blessed enough to achieve success has a responsibility to help those in need,” McBride said to Music Biz. “While my goal was never to be recognized for my charitable efforts, this award is proof that we can all make a difference, no matter how small, in the lives of others. I hope this recognition will encourage more people to support worthy organizations that speak to their hearts.”

McBride is set to receive the recognition on May 14, 2015, during the Music Biz Award Luncheon hosted at the Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel. For more information on the event and McBride’s recognition, visit https://musicbiz.org/press-releases/martina-mcbride-receive-humanitarian-award-music-biz-2015/.

Kids Wish Network is a charitable organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children having experienced life-altering situations. Visit https://www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn more and find out how you can help makes dreams come true.

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