Ace Brett Lee makes wish come true

Source: Melbourne Herald Sun - February 6, 2004

MELBOURNE leukemia sufferer Sarah Genuis is the envy of her Year 10 friends.

The 14-year-old – just months away from a bone marrow transplant – will be cricketer Brett Lee's date at next week's Allan BorderMedal dinner.

Lee yesterday gave his spare ticket to the gutsy teenager through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"It was always my wish to represent Australia and having been lucky enough to do so, I hope this small gesture will go a long way to helping Sarah in her recovery," he said.

Sarah and her family will be lavished with five-star treatment in the Crown Towers Hotel before the youngster graces the red carpet for cricket's night of nights.

The C.R.C. St Albans student, diagnosed with cancer last year, recently fulfilled another wish to record her own CD with older sister Ruth.

"I thought recording my own single was just the best, but this is just unbelievable," she said.

"My friends are all giving me advice on what to wear, but I just want to be me."

Lee, who will lead Australia's bowling attack in today's one-day final against India at the MCG, said he was looking forward to the night.

Sarah's mum Theresa said her daughter was overwhelmed by the kindness of Lee and the Make-A-Wish team.

"She's my inspiration. With all that is going on she never gives up and is always smiling. She's just beautiful," she said.

The Allan Border Medal will be presented at the Crown Palladium Ballroom next Thursday.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation hope to grant 500 wishes in 2004.

For further information call 1800 032 260.

- MICHAEL WARNER