A wish begins with a referral–and a referral begins with you

Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish has impacted over 500,000 wish children and families around the globe, and millions of members of the community.

Recently, Make-A-Wish released new research in the form of the 2022 Wish Impact Study. The powerful results of this Wish Impact Study adds to a growing body of research demonstrating how wish-fulfillment promotes both the mental and emotional well-being of children and their families who are facing trauma stemming from a critical illness.

Perhaps the most overwhelmingly positive feedback on the impact of a wish came from the pediatric doctors who participated in the study. More than 90% of the medical providers said they witnessed their patients overcoming feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and depression after their wish, over 95% reported the wish improved their patients’ emotional and physical well-being, and most notably, 75% stated that a wish could improve a child’s medical outcomes.

By referring your pediatric patients to Make-A-Wish, you will help bring much-needed hope into their lives when it is needed most.

Referring A Child

Who can refer a child for a wish?

Children who may be eligible to receive a wish can be referred by one of four referral sources listed below:

• Medical professionals treating the child – such as doctors, nurses, social workers or child-life specialists
• A parent or legal guardian of the potential wish child
• Family members with detailed knowledge of the child's current medical condition
• The potential wish child themselves

Who is eligible for a wish?

A child who has reached the age of 2½ and is under the age of 18 at the time of referral, who has been diagnosed with a critical illness and has not received a wish from another wish-granting organization is potentially eligible for a wish.

Does a child's condition have to be terminal to qualify for a wish?

No. Many of the children who qualify for a wish go on to lead healthy lives. We grant the wishes of medically eligible children (i.e., those diagnosed with critical illnesses — a progressive, degenerative or malignant condition that has placed the child's life in jeopardy).

How can I refer a child?

To initiate the referral process for a child, visit http://md.wish.org. You can also call us at 609-271-WISH to speak with a member of our Mission Delivery team.

What is your wish referral privacy policy?

Make-A-Wish respects the privacy of the children and families it serves. All medical information is considered confidential and is not discussed with outside parties unless it is required for the wish and the child’s parent(s) or guardian(s) have given their consent. More about our privacy policy.