By Sixtine Tabard - Reading time 4 minsQuality healthcare goes beyond the physical. Emotional well-being is just as important, especially for children navigating life-threatening medical conditions. Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) recognizes that good health also means emotional stability and mental resilience.
The work of Make-A-Wish clearly illustrates how fulfilling a wish supports mental and physical health in children with critical illnesses. The wish experience brings moments of joy, hope, and empowerment to children and their families at a time of emotional and physical stress.
Scientific evidence on mental health outcomes of wish fulfillment
Extensive research highlights just how powerful a wish can be. According to our ‘Global Theory of Change’ model and the ‘Wish Impact Study’, the emotional benefits of wish fulfillment are both profound and far-reaching.
Families consistently report that the wish experience is very meaningful. In fact, 98% of those surveyed believe a wish plays a crucial role in supporting children who are navigating serious medical challenges. Children themselves feel the impact deeply. 97% say their wish brought them genuine joy and happiness, while 92% report a clear improvement in their emotional well-being.
Caregivers also notice the difference. An overwhelming 96% feel more capable of meeting their child’s emotional and social needs after the wish experience. These outcomes reflect more than just temporary relief. They point to renewed optimism, a sense of normalcy, and stronger family bonds that continue long after the wish has been fulfilled.
Physical health improvements linked to emotional experiences
Children with critical illnesses can benefit from multiple forms of mental health support. This becomes especially clear when looking at its broader impact. Positive emotional experiences can trigger physiological responses, such as reduced stress levels, enhanced immune function, and increased hormones that create a happy feeling. Together, these responses help create the right conditions for healing and recovery.
Children who feel emotionally supported and experience positive emotions are more likely to follow their treatment plans, stay motivated, and take an active role in their recovery. Eventually, this mindset can become a powerful driver of better health outcomes.
How Make-A-Wish integrates emotional support in pediatric journeys
At the heart of the approach of Make-A-Wish is the understanding that a wish is not a singular event but a carefully guided journey. From the moment a wish is first imagined to the moment it comes true: every step is shaped by the principles of positive psychology. This process provides emotional relief, fosters family unity, and brings joy that resonates well beyond the wish day.
Children with critical illnesses in nearly 50 countries make the chance to see their wishes granted. The organization creates personalized wish experiences that reflect each child’s unique dreams. Every wish is carefully co-designed with families, taking into account cultural values, medical needs, and what matters most to the child. Make-A-Wish aims to make each experience truly meaningful and inclusive.
Case example: real-life impact of a fulfilled wish
The incredible story of Kaden can be found in ‘The Global Theory of Change’ from Make-A-Wish. It perfectly illustrates the deep impact of a fulfilled wish. After enduring months of intensive treatment, Kaden’s wish to meet his favorite sports team came true. This single moment reignited a sense of possibility for Kaden and offered his family a memory filled with pure joy.
How Make-A-Wish contributes to SDG 3
With over 585,000 wishes granted since 1980 and operations in 50 countries, Make-A-Wish® is a global ambassador for emotional well-being in pediatric care. Fulfilling a wish to support mental and physical health in children with critical illnesses is central to this mission. Each wish aims to uplift not only the spirit, but also to support the overall recovery of the child.
By making wish experiences accessible to all, Make-A-Wish® helps create more equal opportunities in healthcare. By doing so, the organization ensures that every child, no matter where they live, has the chance to feel joy and emotional healing.
Sources and scientific references for further reading
Would you like to learn more about the psychological impact of fulfilling a wish? We recommend ‘The Theory of Change’, which outlines how each wish contributes to a child’s emotional and physical well-being. ‘The Sustainability Overview’ is another option because it shows how these efforts are delivered responsibly and inclusively across the world. Together with the ‘Global Messaging and Impact Reports’, these resources provide a clear picture of how Make-A-Wish transforms the lives of children around the world. Do you also help improve their lives? Get involved!