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Frequently Asked Questions

• How is a child referred for a wish?
• Who can refer a child?
• Is a child who has already received a wish from another wish–granting organization eligible for a Make–A–Wish Foundation wish?
• Does the family’s financial status matter?
• Can we count on Make–A–Wish Foundation to protect the child’s privacy?

FAQS for Parents and Families

• Does accepting a wish mean that we’re giving up hope for our child’s recovery?
• Are families reluctant to accept a wish because it feels like taking charity?
• If our family can afford to pay for our child’s wish, will accepting a wish be unfair to less fortunate families?
• How is my child’s wish determined?
• Who pays for our child’s wish?
• Will my family’s privacy be respected?
• How do I determine if my child is eligible for a wish?
• How do I refer my child for a wish?

How is a child referred for a wish?

There are several ways to refer a child to the Make–A–Wish Foundation. You can call the San Diego Chapter offices at (858) 707–WISH. Referrals can be made online via our National site (www.wish.org) or referral forms can be faxed (medical personnel only) to (858) 707-9480.

Who can refer a child?

Eligible children can be referred by a parent or legal guardian or by a medical professional involved in their care. We also accept self–referrals by children who contact us directly.

Is a child who has already received a wish from another wish–granting organization eligible for a Make–A–Wish Foundation wish?

Children who have had previous wishes granted by the Make–A–Wish Foundation or by other wish–granting organizations are not eligible for a second wish.

Does the family’s financial status matter?

No. It is only the child’s medical condition that determines eligibility for a wish. We understand that even financially comfortable families have neither the time nor the emotional energy to plan their child’s wish experience or a dream vacation while meeting the demands of medical treatment schedules and other day–to–day demands of their child’s illness. And sometimes a child’s wish is for something money cannot buy . . . meeting a favorite celebrity, becoming CEO for a day, or carrying the Olympic torch.

Can we count on Make–A–Wish Foundation to protect the child’s privacy?

Make–A–Wish Foundation 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.

Does accepting a wish mean that we’re giving up hope for our child’s recovery?

Make–A–Wish Foundation has sometimes been incorrectly portrayed as an organization that grants wishes only to children who are dying. Our eligibility criteria stipulate that a child must be diagnosed with a life–threatening medical condition, not a terminal condition. The process of making a wish is life–affirming and full of hope. For many children a wish experience becomes a turning point, renewing their courage and determination to fight for a future. Our wish children who are now adults would attest to this!

Are families reluctant to accept a wish because it feels like taking charity?

There are several reasons why a family might hesitate to call us. A family might feel, for example, that they could grant a wish for their child themselves. We have found, however, that a family simply does not plan a fantasy vacation or event when challenged by a life–threatening medical condition with its intense and disruptive treatment schedules and extreme stresses.

If our family can afford to pay for our child’s wish, will accepting a wish be unfair to less fortunate families?

All medically qualified children are eligible for a wish, regardless of their income. Even if a family can afford to fund the wish themselves, we seek to bring elements of surprise, magic, and fun to the wish experience that many families could not achieve. We have never had to turn a wish down because of a lack of funds, and take pride in fulfilling a wish for every eligible child, regardless of race, or economic status.

How is my child’s wish determined?

Once a child’s eligibility for a wish is confirmed, our wish–granting volunteers will schedule a time to meet with you and your child to determine his or her wish. Our volunteers are specially trained to help your child explore the different types of wishes and to identify her or his most heartfelt wish. This initial part of a child’s Make–A–Wish experience can generate hopeful expectation and give your child something to look forward to.

Who pays for our child’s wish?

Make–A–Wish Foundation covers the entire cost of your child’s wish. There is no cost to the family.

Will my family’s privacy be respected?

Make–A–Wish Foundation takes great care to guard the privacy of the children and families we serve. Your child’s medical information is considered confidential and is not discussed with outside parties unless it is required for the wish. Your consent is required before we can obtain or share any information regarding your child or your family.

How do I determine if my child is eligible for a wish?

If your child is between the ages of 2 1/2 and under the age of 18 and has been diagnosed with a life–threatening medical condition (determined by your physician), he or she may be eligible for a wish. The medical professionals working with your child will be able to give you more information. Or you can contact our offices at (858) 707–WISH

How do I refer my child for a wish?

There are several ways to refer a child to the Make–A–Wish Foundation. You can call the San Diego Chapter offices at (858) 707–WISH. Referrals can be made online via our National site (www.wish.org) or referral forms can be faxed (medical personnel only) to (858) 707-9480.