"Emma's Wish" Raises $8.6 Million In Eight Months

Charity Founded In Honor of Governor's Daughter Raises Millions For Cancer Research

GRASSADELLA CITY, DMG--The charity organization founded in honor of Emma Huuvanna, the 6-year-old daughter of Trinton Governor John Huuvanna, has brought in over $8 million since its creation eight months ago. 

Back in November, the Huuvanna family announced their daughter Emma had been diagnosed with leukemia. After extensive media coverage, little Emma won the hearts of many Grassadellans, and a group of family and friends created a foundation named after the youngster, called "Emma's Wish." 

The goal of the organization, as described on its website www.emmaswishfoundation.org, is to raise money to "assist families of low-income children with paying medical bills," and "promote and fund cancer research." Foundation Vice President and Huuvanna family friend Sheri Craille told the GBC, "too many children in this country are suffering from life-threatening diseases, and their families can't afford the proper medical care. Our goal is to help these families financially so they can afford to have their son or daughter given the best care possible."

Craille also praised the group's massive fundraising.

"I think it's great. It shows that the people of this country do care and are reaching into their pockets to help."

While the group has received sizable donations from large corporations, most donations have come from individuals. Several businesses in many industries, such as retail stores and media networks, including Zimmer Media Corp., the parent company of GNN News, have partnered with Emma's Wish to raise money.

While Emma's story has captivated the nation, the foundation has come under fire for its alleged partisan leanings. In February, the group made a prominent appearance at a Nationalist party dinner fundraiser. However, when the group was invited by organizers of a similar function for the Conservative party, it declined to make an appearance. Critics complained the organization boycotted the Conservative party because of its opposition to stem-cell research. The group claims it was a scheduling conflict that prevented it from attending the CNS fundraiser, not politics.

Despite some criticism, however, the group has received bipartisan praise. President Byelle said today he was "thrilled" at the group's fundraising pace.

"It's outstanding. It's a wonderful cause, and the people of Grassadella should get behind it and support our children," he said.

It's not yet clear if all of the funds raised will go directly to Emma's Wish Foundation, or if those funds will be distributed and allocated to similar organizations.