Why wishes are essential for children with rare diseases

olivers walking in London

I wish to go signtseeing in London
 Oliver, 5, UK
Duchenne muscular dystrophy

For children with rare diseases, a wish granted by Make-A-Wish offers lasting joy and positive outcomes. It creates lasting emotional relief and can even positively influence treatment outcomes.

Many children undergoing intensive treatments face significant medical and emotional challenges, and wishes have been shown to improve physical, psychological and emotional well-being. Wishes provide respite from the stresses of daily medical routines, helping children regain hope and strength to face ongoing treatments.

Moreover, Make-A-Wish encourages referrals from healthcare providers, so that wish fulfillment is considered an integral part of the child’s treatment plan. Research shows that wishes contribute to improved emotional resilience, which can enhance physical recovery.

The Power of Crowdfunding and Community Support

Community-driven efforts, such as local events and benefit concerts, offer Make-A-Wish chapters worldwide additional opportunities for collective action. Schools, religious organizations and local businesses frequently collaborate to organize crowdfunding actions that help to grant wishes. These initiatives not only generate funds but also foster a sense of solidarity and shared purpose, reducing the isolation that many families feel.

Through community involvement, donors and supporters play an active role in transforming wishes into reality. From bake sales and charity runs to online campaigns, every contribution fuels a journey filled with anticipation, hope, and joy.

Crowdfunding platforms have amplified this impact by reaching global audiences, making it possible for anyone to help create life-changing moments for children. Even small gestures from individuals, such as sharing campaigns on social media or participating in local events, collectively drive monumental results.

This collective energy also creates lasting connections. Volunteers, donors, and local leaders often maintain long-term support, ensuring that communities remain invested in future wishes. The ripple effect is powerful: one granted wish often inspires further contributions, volunteerism, and new partnerships. Crowdfunding doesn’t just raise money; it builds a network of compassion that allows communities to feel personally connected to the impact they make.

With community engagement at its core, these efforts remind us that granting a wish is not just a single event: it’s a shared journey. By participating, community members experience firsthand the joy of making a tangible difference in the life of a child and their family.

How You Can Contribute and Make an Impact

Contributing to rare disease support goes beyond monetary donations. While financial contributions are crucial, there are numerous other ways to get involved. Volunteering with Make-A-Wish lets individuals help by helping with fundraising events, wishgranting, administration or contributing other required skills.

Raising awareness is another powerful way to contribute. Sharing stories on social media, participating in awareness events, and advocating for policy changes can support the visibility of rare diseases and attract additional support. For those who can contribute financially, becoming a monthly donor can provide sustainable funding that allows us to plan ahead and ensure we can continue granting wishes.

Join us in supporting children with rare diseases by donating or getting involved in community initiatives like fundraisers. Every contribution makes a difference.

 

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Sixtine Tabard

Sixtine Tabard, Digital Marketing Manager at Make-A-Wish International, joined the organization at the beginning of 2025. With over 9 years of digital marketing & analytics experience in e-commerce, she brings a wealth of expertise. Sixtine is responsible for the website content and SEO, and supports new affiliates in setting up their own website. Additionally, she manages the digital analytics side of the website to improve its efficiency and ensure a smooth donation process for all Make-A-Wish supporters.

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