The Uplifting Power of a Wish

When a child is diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition, many people's lives are turned upside down -- the child who must undergo invasive medical treatments; the parents or caregivers who feel a loss of control; the brothers and sisters who experience the fear of illness alongside their sibling.

Many seriously ill children experience feelings of confusion, fear, anger, and isolation.  Meanwhile, families must expend an exhaustive amount of energy and resources on medical treatments and care giving.

A wish can change a child's life

Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island strives to improve the quality of life for these children and their families.  For a seriously ill child, a wish is a spirit-lifting, life-affirming experience -- a chance to escape the difficult world of hospitals and treatments.  A wish rekindles a child's hope for the future; strength to cope with illness; and joy for life.  In addition, the wish experience provides an uplifting respite for the entire family during a challenging time.