Wish FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Wishes
What children are eligible?
Any child over the age of 2 ½ and under the age of 18, diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition, may qualify for a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation regardless of the family's race, gender, creed, socio-economic or cultural background.
Do children need to have a terminal illness to be eligible for a wish?
No. All children with life-threatening medical conditions are eligible to receive a wish. Wishes are not intended to be a "last wish," but an endorsement of life and a gift of hope. For many children, a wish becomes a turning point, renewing their courage and determination to fight for a future.
Who determines if a child's medical condition is life-threatening?
It is the child's primary doctor who determines whether or not a child has a life-threatening medical condition.
Is a child who has already received a wish from another wish granting organization eligible to receive a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation?
No. A child who has received a wish from another organization is not eligible for a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
What if the child becomes sick again? Can they have another wish?
No. Every child may have one wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
I thought Make-A-Wish was only for children diagnosed with terminal illnesses.
No, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. In fact, more than 80% of the children we have granted wishes to are still alive today. Wishes are not intended to be a "last wish", but an endorsement of life and a gift of hope.
Does the family's financial status matter?
No. Economic background does not affect whether a child is eligible for a wish. The Make-A-Wish Foundation fulfills wishes of all kinds and we have access to many avenues not available to the general public. Thanks to our contacts, we are able to arrange unique trips, celebrity meetings and other special experiences that money simply cannot buy.
Who pays for the wishes?
Make-A-Wish covers the entire cost of the wish. There is no cost to the family.
At what point during the child's treatment should the wish process start?
Wishes are fulfilled when it is the best time-both medically and emotionally-for a child's family. Sometimes, a wish is granted at the beginning of treatment to provide hope and strength throughout a child's illness. Other times, it is scheduled at the midpoint of treatment to reward a child for being brave. Still others plan the wish experience at the end of treatment period in order to celebration the child's strong fight.
My child is doing well right now. If my child receives a wish, will he or she be taking it away from someone who really needs it?
Make-A-Wish has never turned away a child who is eligible for our program. Every child who qualifies will have his or her wish fulfilled. Make-A-Wish does not "select" children. Your child's participation will not prevent another child from receiving a wish.
How do I find out what my child's wish is?
Wish Granters will come and meet your child and family. Wish Granters have been trained to work with your child and help to determine his or her wish. In the meantime, it's important that you allow your child to explore the different types of wishes. We hope you will encourage your child to wish for something that is truly special to them - without the influence of your own wish or that of a sibling.
Are there any types of wishes that Make-A-Wish does NOT fulfill?
There are some wishes that Make-A-Wish cannot grant either due to national or local policies, liability, or the fact that it might impact our ability to fulfill the wishes of other children.

These include:
-Gifts of designated sums of money
-Automobiles
-Leasing, renting, or purchase of a home or residence;
-Wishes related to treatment or coverage of medical costs;
-Wishes involving the gift of or use of firearms, explosives, or weapons;
-Wishes that involve public solicitation (ex: most birthday cards ever, business cards, etc.);
-Wishes that may create an ongoing financial burden to the family (ex: real estate improvements, etc.)
Will the entire family be included in the wish?
The family is a very important part of the wish process, and your Wish Granters will do everything possible to make the wish memorable for everyone. Wish participants include immediate family only: two parents or guardians, the wish child, and the child's siblings. In addition, a single parent may include a second adult, and a child with no siblings can invite a friend to participate in the wish. Any additional participants due to unique situations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. DCFS / foster family situations and participants are determined case-by-case as well.
What are the responsibilities of a family during the wish granting process?
Make-A-Wish takes care of everything from planning each detail of the wish and the itinerary, down to the smallest details, including spending money and transportation. Whether the wish is local or involves travel, a family will have no planning or financial responsibility.
What if something is planned and a child gets sick right before the wish day? 
We understand that sometimes a wish will need to be rescheduled due to illness. The most important thing is for each child to know that we will reschedule the wish for when he or she is feeling better.
What if medical attention is needed during the wish?
Once in a while, a child gets sick during the wish itself and is not able to complete the wish experience. If this happens, we will work with the family and medical team to complete the wish at a more appropriate time. Wish team members and staff are on call 24 hours a day. In the event of an emergency, these individuals can be contacted for immediate assistance and/or re-scheduling of travel for an earlier return.
What if a family does not want publicity?
We respect and protect a child's and family's right to privacy. Publicity will never be sought without permission, and a family may decline publicity.
What do I have to do to see if my child is eligible for a wish?
Feel free to speak with one of the medical professionals working with your child, or you can contact the Make-A-Wish office nearest you.