WWE wrestler John Cena has done something that involves setting a record and the number 500. Not 500 lbs., or a new squat-thrust record.
John Cena has made history with the number 500 because that’s the record number of wishes he has granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Cena granted his first wish in 2004, about two years after his WWE debut. As he soared toward the top of the wrestling world, so did his popularity with Make-A-Wish children. He granted his 300th wish in 2012 and hit 400 in 2014. He was the first celebrity to reach those milestones.
"They certainly deserve a day as a real kid," Cena said.
The 38-year-old Cena is following a WWE tradition of granting wishes. The organization has granted more than 6,000 wishes to meet WWE superstars or attend its live shows. The tradition started in the early 1980s with Hulk Hogan being the most requested. Nearly 50 wrestlers have granted wishes since 2001.
Yet, Cena’s involvement with the families of the children doesn’t end after the child’s wish has been granted:
Many families stay in touch with Cena, sometimes writing that the time spent helped turn the child's attitude and physical condition around. He also receives heartfelt, thankful letters for brightening days for children who eventually died.
"Those are always difficult to read," Cena said. "But at the same time, the strength of the parents in sending me a message about how much the time that I spent with their child meant to them, it's very special."
I think the word “special” sums it up nicely.
