The Make-A-Wish Foundation says the Chaser’s skit misrepresented the motives of the children and families that apply for Wishes with the Foundation. ‘The implication that sick children are materialistic and request unrealistic Wishes is offensive to those who have applied or intend to apply for Wishes’.
Make-A-Wish® grants the Wishes of children suffering life-threatening medical conditions and these Wishes can range from a portable DVD player to meeting the Pope in Rome. Make-A-Wish prides itself on the notion that a child’s Wish is limited only by their imagination.
“Our mission involves granting Wishes to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy,” said Make-A-Wish CEO, Sandy Brattstrom.
“The powerful effect a cherished Wish can have on the lives of children with life-threatening illnesses is quite
astounding. We see the spirits of children and their families lift dramatically through the power of a Wish. A common misconception is that we only grant Wishes to dying children however many of our Wish recipients
overcome and manage their conditions, going on to lead healthy and happy lives,” said Ms Brattstrom.
“Make-A-Wish would like to thank everybody for their messages of support and assure all that we are as committed as ever to granting the cherished Wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.”
Make-A-Wish Australia will grant more than 400 Wishes to seriously ill children in 2009. To donate or to read more about Wishes visit www.makeawish.org.au
Source: Make A Wish Foundation