Commentary by A.J. Carter
Newsday, May 3, 2004

We hear lots of stories about how people become involved with various charities and how they start foundations to raise money for research to raise money for research into a disease contracted by a loved one. They are all worthy, although we can't write about every one.

But once in a while there's an event that especially piques our interest, which brings us to the tale behind today's scheduled Americana Mortgage Group golf tournament. Bob Moulton, founder and president of the Manhasset-based mortgage company, raised almost $50,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation last year and hopes to at least match that this year.

Moulton has put everything together, with help only from someone else in his office, and it's been a lot of work. "You have to reach out, you have to follow up, you have to make phone calls, you have to do a lot of mailings," he said. " I've done a lot of mailings. I've done a lot of e-mails to people over the last six to 12 months." But when Moulton explains the foundation's efforts, he talks from personal experience.

In 1992, Moulton's daughter, Kelly, had a heart transplant when she was 2. Five years later, she was suffering side effects from anti-rejection medication and was undergoing chemotherapy. A social worker asked her if she had a wish - it was to go to Disney World and "meet the real Cinderella," her father said. And it was granted.

That's when Moulton got involved with Make-A-Wish, and even today he says he feels he brings a perspective to the local board that other members don't have. "Most of the people who are on the board or most of the people on the advisory committee have not necessarily had a child who has been in a life-threatening situation but are very kind, generous benefactors to the organization," he said. "I'm one who wants to give back, where the others, who are doing a nice job, haven't been as touched. I can relate to both sides."

By the way, contrary to the stereotype about Make-A-Wish recipients, Kelly actually made it, although she did have a second heart transplant in 2001. "Right now, she's a thriving 14-year old," her proud papa said. "She's wonderful." Kelly often speaks at Make-A-Wish functions, and she is to talk at the outing.