Make-A-Wish grants Arnold girl's 'American Idol' dream

Eight-year-old Harper Shamus was flown to Hawaii to watch the filming of the singing competition show.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:06am

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering sequins and stage lights, capturing the glitz and glamour of a televised singing competition without any visible people, objects or text.A young girl's dream of appearing on 'American Idol' is brought to life through the generosity of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.Arnold Today

Eight-year-old Harper Shamus, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in August 2022, had her wish granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Harper and her family were flown to Hawaii to watch the filming of an episode of the singing competition show 'American Idol', and Harper was even interviewed by host Ryan Seacrest during the broadcast.

Why it matters

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses, providing them and their families with hope, strength and joy during difficult times. Harper's story highlights the positive impact these wishes can have on a child's well-being and the power of community support.

The details

Harper Shamus, a third-grade student at Lone Dell Elementary School in Arnold, Missouri, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in August 2022. In January 2023, Harper and her family - mother Diana Shamus, father Tony Shamus, and 19-year-old sister Kaitlyn Grace - were flown to the Disney-run Aulani resort in Hawaii to watch the filming of an episode of 'American Idol'. During the eighth episode of the show's ninth season, which aired on March 16, 2023, host Ryan Seacrest interviewed Harper and introduced her to the audience.

  • Harper was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in August 2022.
  • In January 2023, Harper and her family were flown to Hawaii to watch the filming of an 'American Idol' episode.
  • The episode featuring Harper aired on March 16, 2023.

The players

Harper Shamus

An 8-year-old girl from Arnold, Missouri who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in August 2022 and had her wish to visit the set of 'American Idol' granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Diana Shamus

Harper's mother, who accompanied her family on the trip to Hawaii.

Tony Shamus

Harper's father, who accompanied his family on the trip to Hawaii.

Kaitlyn Grace

Harper's 19-year-old sister, who accompanied the family on the trip to Hawaii.

Ryan Seacrest

The host of 'American Idol', who interviewed Harper during the broadcast.

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What they’re saying

“It was amazing.”

— Harper Shamus

“You are a star.”

— Ryan Seacrest, Host, American Idol

The takeaway

Harper's story is a heartwarming example of the Make-A-Wish Foundation's ability to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, providing them and their families with hope, strength and joy during difficult times. The community's support and the positive impact of Harper's experience on 'American Idol' highlight the power of making dreams come true for those facing significant health challenges.