Make-A-Wish Alabama honors 16 year old’s legacy wish at Reeltown High School football game
As Reeltown High School celebrated senior night at their football game Friday night, a Make-A-Wish request made by a sixteen year old student came true. Reeltown’s band took to the field for the first time in their new uniforms because of a wish from Melody Jackson. Melody was an alto saxophonist with the Reeltown Band prior to her diagnosis with cancer in 2023. Sadly, the 16 year old passed away in February surrounded by family and friends. Melody’s family was at the game Friday night to receive her band jacket and a plaque commemorating her legacy during halftime.
Each band member’s jacket featured a pin to recognize Melody’s wish. The heart of the pin showcased a symbol designed by Melody’s brother with the words, “Within Our Hearts There Will Always Ring A Melody.” That same symbol is permanently embroidered on the collar of every band uniform. The crowd at the football game also wore matching stickers.
“Melody was asked one time by a friend why she chose the band uniforms for her wish,” said Voni Jackson, Melody’s mother. “Her reply stopped me in my tracks. She chose this wish simply because she didn’t want or need anything. If that doesn’t change your entire perspective, I don’t know much that will. Melody’s treasures belonged in the love of her family and on the promises of God. To the marching rebel pride tonight and those who don the uniform after you, know there is an angel watching over you from the sky.”
“Our school’s uniforms were nine years old,” said Eric Thompson, Reeltown’s band director, “and replacing them was going to cost upwards of $30,000. Melody could have chosen virtually anything, but she wanted to give back to her friends and community. Her courage and kindness are a testament to how we all possess the ability to make a difference and to make decisions that positively affect those around us.”
“Every wish we grant creates ripples,” said Make-A-Wish Alabama President and CEO Tracy Bennett Smith, “however, Melody’s wish far exceeds anything that we have seen before, and it will continue to touch the lives of others for years to come. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our board of directors and supporters as well as DeMoulin Brothers & Company for bringing Melody’s wish to life.”
Melody passed away February 2, surrounded by her family and friends. She was just sixteen years old. Prior to her passing, Melody celebrated an early graduation ceremony, received a letterman’s jacket, and was named honorary homecoming queen at Reeltown High School.
Last year, Make-A-Wish Alabama granted 215 wishes across the state. For more information about Make-A-Wish Alabama, visit alabama.wish.org.
