Jackie Waddill, who has served Dream recipients, their families, and Dream Foundation’s family of supporters over the last 23 years, has announced her retirement.
 
“In my 23-year career with Dream Foundation, I’ve seen the delight and pure joy a final Dream can bring,” Waddill said. “I’ve felt the short distance between hello and goodbye. I have heard the urgency of need and voices from those willing to help. Above all, I have witnessed the power of the human spirit.”

During her tenure, Waddill served in a variety of roles including resource coordinator/receptionist, volunteer network manager, Dream Network manager, programs manager, and today, donor relations manager, but her unofficial title and that for which she is best known for is director of love.

“Jackie is an incomparable and dedicated Dream advocate,” said Kisa Heyer, Dream Foundation CEO. “She will always be remembered for the kindness and enthusiasm she showed our recipients and donors.”

Asked about her favorite Dreams over the years, Waddill said those involving twins resonated with her as she is a twin herself. She also recalled a Dream in which country singer Kevin Sharp sang and recorded 54-year-old Sacramento resident John Bartley’s songs.

Diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma at a young age, Sharp had received a wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. When Dream Foundation contacted him about Bartley’s Dream, he felt honored to pay-it forward. “Life presents circles,” Waddill said. “My favorite Dreams always involved a bit of this magic.”

Dream Foundation, the only national dream-granting organization for terminally-ill adults, fulfills final Dreams that provide inspiration, comfort and closure at the end of life. With the support of a nationwide network of volunteers, hospices, health care organizations and committed donors, Dream Foundation has given life to more than 32,000 final Dreams since its founding in 1994.

Dream Foundation receives no state or federal funding, relying solely on private donations. To support Dream Foundation, visit DreamFoundation.org/donate.