Make-A-Wish Easter North Carolina Chapter grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.

Although the first chapter started in 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America was created in 1983 to oversee the growth and development of the organization and establish consistent policies and guidelines. Since 1983, the national organization has evolved into a central service office that provides a myriad of services to the 65 active chapters in the United States and its territories and 28 international affiliates spanning five continents.

Every fulfilled wish represents a unique collaboration between the wish family, medical professionals, volunteers and donors. Wish granting truly is a magical, yet comprehensive and dynamic process.

The magic of wish granting usually begins with a referral call to the chapter office by a physician or social worker.  However, the family or even the child himself may do the referral. A wish referral form is completed with relevant information about the child. After the Make-A-Wish Foundation® has been contacted, a medical authorization form is sent to the child’s primary physician. Upon medical approval, a team of volunteers will schedule an initial wish visit to discover the child’s wish. Then chapter staff and volunteers work the magic for the child’s wish to come true. There are four steps to granting a wish. Each step builds on the next to help create the amazing experiences that delight wish kids and their families. A wish experience is frequently a source of inspiration for children undergoing difficult medical treatments and a positive force that helps them overcome their obstacles.

A wish experience is often more than a dream come true: it’s the catalyst that rekindles their belief in themselves and the promise of their future.

For more information visit http://eastncwish.wish.org.