 |
|
The Magic of Dreams Come True Begins With:
|
THE WISH PROCESS Every wish is a memorable experience for the wish child, the family and those who participate in the wish. The Foundation follows a process to create memorable wish experiences for each wish child: STEP ONE: The Wish Referral Out of respect for the privacy of the children and families Make-A-Wish Foundation® International serves, only these sources may refer a child: a medical professional treating the child (doctor, nurse, social worker or child-life specialist); the child's parents or legal guardians; the potential wish child. STEP TWO: Determining the Child's Eligibility Children who have been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and are at least 3 years of age but have not yet reached their 18th birthday may be eligible for a wish. The treating physician determines whether a child is medically eligible to receive a wish. A child also must not have received a wish from another wish-granting organization to qualify. Make-A-Wish Foundation® International grants wishes to children who qualify for our services without regard to race, creed, religion, sex, economic status, or national origin. Make-A-Wish Foundation® International respects the privacy of the children and families we serve. We consider all wish child information confidential and will not discuss the information with outside parties unless it is needed for the wish, and the parents or guardians have consented. STEP THREE: Choosing a Wish Once the child is deemed medically eligible, we send one of our enthusiastic wish teams to learn the child's one true wish. These passionate individuals help children explore their imaginations for the experience that will thrill and inspire them.
Wishes generally fall into one of these categories:
STEP FOUR: Making a Wish Come True Finally, our wish granters create an unforgettable experience driven by the wish child's creativity. The experience enriches the lives of the children, their families and sometimes their entire community. All members of the wish child's immediate family take part in the wish whenever possible, and all wish expenses are fully covered by the Foundation ? giving the wish child and family a respite from the stress of dealing with a life-threatening illness. In many cases, a wish experience is a source of inspiration for children undergoing difficult medical treatments and a positive force that helps them overcome their obstacles.
|