Fifteen-year-old Kayli finds joy in watching the Travel Channel and daydreaming about her next adventure.

The teen was referred to the Make-A-Wish Foundation^® amidst her battle with a blood clotting disorder. When visited by her volunteers, Kayli was anxious to share her wish: to go gem mining in North Carolina.

Thanks to Jewelers for Children, Kayli was able to be a gem miner during her wish trip in the state home to the “Gem Capital of the World”.

Emerald Village in Spruce Pines, NC hosted Kayli and her family for a real gem mining experience. Emerald Village is a group of gem, mining, and historical attractions nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. This popular destination is home to 7 real mines and has been featured on Kayli’s favorite television station, The Travel Channel.

The Lodges at Eagles Nest, the family’s accommodations for the week, also arranged activities including archery and a ropes course.