Make-A-Wish NJ grants leukemia survivor’s wish to be trauma surgeon for a day at Hackensack University Medical Center
Alexander Alvarez, known as “Dr. Alex” for the day, was given hands-on experience at Hackensack University Medical Center, where he learned emergency and operating room procedures and took part in a simulated trauma response.
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A 13-year-old leukemia survivor from Carteret spent National Doctors Day stepping into the role of a trauma surgeon after his wish was granted through a partnership between Make-A-Wish New Jersey and Hackensack Meridian Health.
Alexander Alvarez, known as “Dr. Alex” for the day, was given hands-on experience at Hackensack University Medical Center, where he learned emergency and operating room procedures and took part in a simulated trauma response.
The day began with Alvarez arriving at the hospital aboard AirMed 1, a medical transport helicopter. After landing on the helipad, he met with medical staff and practiced skills including “Stop the Bleed” techniques, intubation and robotic surgery demonstrations.
His experience concluded with a white coat ceremony, where he received a personalized white coat and stethoscope, symbolizing his commitment to pursuing a future in medicine.
“This wish was about more than wearing scrubs or stepping into an operating room — it was about empowering a child to imagine a future beyond illness,” said Tom Weatherall, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey.
Robert Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, said Alvarez’s wish reflected the qualities seen in healthcare workers.
“Alex’s wish to become a trauma surgeon for a day embodies the courage and selflessness that we see in our own dedicated team members every day,” Garrett said.
Officials said the event highlighted Alvarez’s journey from patient to aspiring surgeon and aimed to inspire his future goal of helping others, just as his doctors helped him during leukemia treatment.
