Pemberville girl wrestling with critical illness has dream to meet WWE superstar fulfilled

From KIDS WISH NETWORK

DETROIT, Mich. — Jodie Lewis’ abounding knowledge of WWE is impressive. As a dedicated fan who watches all WWE programs, she never imagined she’d have the chance to be immersed in the energy of a live event, let alone meet a WWE Superstar. 

Roman Reigns with Jodie Lewis

Jodie’s wish came true and more through Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses. Her beaming smile reveals the happiness that still radiates after attending WWE’s Friday Night SmackDown at Little Caesars Arena and meeting WWE superstar Roman Reigns.  

For Jodie, her wrestling phenomenon first began outside the ring meeting Roman Reigns face to face. “I was excited meeting him. It was amazing, it really was!” He gave her signed WWE gifts, they talked, took pictures together, and he also showed his sweetest maneuver, giving her a big hug. Jodie recalled, “He was really nice and really tall!” 

Her brother and grandfather were also there to share in her big day. “He was so great with her,” said her grandfather Tom. Afterward, her family watched all of the night’s in-ring action from front-row seats.

During Jodie’s wish, her family enjoyed accommodations provided by The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. The hotel welcomed them all with cozy gifts to keep them warm, and cookies and milk. She loved their spacious room with views of the downtown. 

While Jodie’s wish is over, the happy memories continue to bring on smiles — even amid all her health struggles. She has malabsorption and progressive conditions causing heart and liver failure, and is under the care of Hospice. 

“Jodie’s dream of seeing a live WWE event was taken to the next level meeting Roman Reigns, it brought a special magic to her world,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Tam Lai.

Kids Wish Network is a national charitable organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children with life-threatening conditions and struggling with life-altering situations. KWN provides for trip expenses, meals, accommodations and additional spending monies to all wish families whenever traveling as applicable. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs, and refer a child.