S3 E42 Interview with Forrest Doolen Make a Wish Wisconsin

Make-A-Wish Wisconsin grants wishes to children battling critical illnesses, dispelling the myth that it is only for terminally ill children. The impact of a wish goes beyond the immediate joy and happiness it brings. It can have long-lasting effects on a child's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Wishes range from trips to Disney World or Hawaii to unique experiences like finding Bigfoot or singing with a symphony. Make-A-Wish relies on the support of the community, including medical professionals, volunteers, and donors, to grant wishes. Their goal is to grant the wish of every eligible child in Wisconsin. Make-A-Wish is a global wish-granting organization that aims to bring joy and hope to children with critical illnesses. They have 58 chapters in the United States and 43 affiliates in 50 countries worldwide. Make-A-Wish grants over 400 wishes a year in Wisconsin alone and over 15,000 wishes a year in the United States. The organization covers all expenses related to the wish, including travel, accommodations, meals, and spending money. They also prioritize including the entire immediate family in the wish experience. Celebrity wishes are popular, with John Cena being the most requested celebrity to meet. Celebrities are generally receptive to granting wishes and go above and beyond to make the experience special for the wish children. Make-A-Wish relies on donations, volunteers, and spreading awareness to continue granting wishes and making a difference in the lives of children and their families.