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Wishes lead to improved health outcomes

The wish experience plays a significant role in the physical, mental, and emotional health of children, contributing to improved medical outcomes and a better chance of recovery from critical illnesses.

In 2022, Make-A-Wish conducted a comprehensive study that sought to quantify the effects of wish-granting on children with critical illnesses and their families. Building on research initiated in 2010, this expanded survey included a larger group of wish alumni, parents, and medical professionals. The results, based on responses from over 3,000 participants, confirmed that the wish experience plays a significant role in the physical, mental, and emotional health of children, contributing to improved medical outcomes and a better chance of recovery from critical illnesses.

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A Journey of Healing

The Make-A-Wish experience is more than just a moment of joy; it’s a catalyst for healing. The 2022 Wish Impact Survey revealed that a wish is a critical part of the medical treatment journey, offering not just emotional support but also contributing to better health outcomes and improved odds of survival.

The Impact of a Wish

100%

of medical providers said the wish experience improves the child’s overall quality of life and is a turning point in a child’s treatment

94%

of wish parents saw their child’s emotional well-being improve through the wish experience

95%

of wish alumni felt more hopeful for their future after their wish

95%

of medical providers said a wish gives children strength to fight their critical illness

Transformative Experiences

At Make-A-Wish Canada, we believe that a granted wish is much more than a special experience—it’s a transformative journey for the children we support. For many, a wish serves as a pivotal turning point in their treatment. It provides a much-needed respite from the stress of illness and medical treatments, offering a beacon of hope and a boost of strength. The joy and positivity that come from a wish can significantly impact a child’s emotional well-being and even their overall outlook on their treatment.

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The Power of Hope

Wishes have the power to instill hope and strength in children facing critical illnesses. According to the survey, parents and medical professionals agree that the wish experience significantly boosts the child’s hope, joy, and confidence, which are essential for overcoming the challenges of their condition.

Uniting Families in Support

The impact of a wish extends beyond the individual child, bringing families closer together. The shared experience of a wish strengthens relationships and provides a collective source of comfort and resilience, as highlighted by the overwhelmingly positive messages we receive from wish parents and families every day.

I think in looking back on my son’s cancer/treatment/recovery, the Wish trip is in many ways more memorable than his sickness…even 8 years later, we have more memories of his wish trip and the fun we had together as a family then we do of the illness.
– Anonymous, wish parent

Join Our Mission

We believe that every individual has the power to make a positive impact, and we invite you to join us in our mission to grant a wish for every eligible child in Canada. Your contribution is invaluable, whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word. Together, we can turn hope into reality.

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