What is a Make-A-Wish Kid?
A Make-A-Wish Kid is a child or adolescent who is battling a critical illness and has been granted the incredible opportunity to have a wish fulfilled by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This foundation, founded in 1980, is dedicated to granting the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. The Make-A-Wish experience is designed to bring happiness and relief from the pain and stress of their medical treatments, providing them with a moment of joy that they will never forget.
The process of becoming a Make-A-Wish Kid begins when a child’s medical team identifies them as a candidate for the program. The child must be between the ages of 3 and 18, have a life-threatening medical condition, and have not received a wish from another wish-granting organization. Once a child is referred to the foundation, a volunteer wish granter is assigned to help make their wish come true.
Types of Wishes
Make-A-Wish Kids have the chance to dream big and have their most heartfelt wishes granted. These wishes can range from simple, yet meaningful experiences, such as meeting a favorite celebrity or going to a favorite place, to once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Some of the most popular wish types include:
– Meeting a celebrity: Many children dream of meeting their heroes, whether it’s a sports star, a musician, or an actor.
– Traveling: Wishes to visit a favorite place or go on a dream vacation are common, giving children the chance to explore new cultures and experiences.
– Themed parties: Some children wish for a party with a special theme, such as a princess party or a superhero party, allowing them to be the center of attention and feel like a child again.
– Animal experiences: Wishes to meet and interact with animals, such as a horseback riding adventure or a visit to a zoo, are also popular choices.
The Impact of a Make-A-Wish
The impact of a Make-A-Wish on a child’s life is profound. The experience of having a wish granted can provide a sense of normalcy and hope during a difficult time. It can also have long-lasting effects on the child’s well-being, including:
– Increased sense of joy and happiness: The act of granting a wish can bring a smile to a child’s face and create a positive memory that can be cherished for years to come.
– Strengthened family bonds: The process of planning and experiencing the wish can bring families closer together, providing them with an opportunity to create lasting memories.
– Boosted morale: A Make-A-Wish can give a child the strength and motivation to continue their medical treatments, knowing that they have achieved one of their greatest dreams.
Conclusion
A Make-A-Wish Kid is a child who has been given the incredible gift of having their wish come true by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. These experiences can bring hope, joy, and a sense of normalcy to children facing life-threatening illnesses. By granting these wishes, the foundation aims to create a moment of magic that will be remembered for a lifetime.
