Off To The Races - Declan's Wish

There’s nothing like life in the fast lane! Thirteen-year-old Declan from Washington, D.C. is an adventurous and inquisitive young man. He’s a lover of most things boys his age: sports, superheroes, pizza, Legos, and especially cars.

While in and out of the hospital battling a brain tumor, Declan’s interests kept him going and provided a moment of escape from his medical journey. When the Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic team approached Declan for a wish, his passion for cars made the choice simple. Declan wished to visit and tour the Bugatti headquarters in Molsheim, France. Declan had always been fascinated with the beauty of Bugattis, so he wanted to learn everything there was to know about how they are manufactured. Even when playing with his Legos, his curious mind is intrigued by all of the different parts and how they work together, so seeing that process with his favorite (life-sized) car was sure to be an experience he would never forget!

However, the COVID-19 pandemic made international travel impossible. Since Declan could not go to the Bugatti factory, Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic would have to bring the tour to him. The notoriously exclusive and secretive Bugatti organization agreed to give Declan a private virtual tour. Declan virtually met with the Bugatti team and toured their France factory so he could ask all the questions he wanted and still get to see every behind-the-scenes look. As much as Declan loved his online time with Bugatti, there was still another surprise awaiting him! A private car collector in Maryland hosted Declan and his family in a tour of his collection of vintage cars and luxury cars, including a Bugatti. Declan was amazed to finally be able to see a Bugatti in person, and even more ecstatic when he was able to go for a ride! Declan’s wish ignited his passions and sparked his imagination, which will give him strength and joy for years to come.