I work at Make-A-Wish UK - a registered charity that was established in 1986 to create life-enhancing experiences for critically ill children. Since then the organisation, which receives no Government funding, has granted 14,000 wishes. These provide a poorly child with choice and happiness at a time when so much is dictated to them by medical treatment. 

The charity has recently experienced a significant increase in the number of children requesting a wish - around 1700 between July to November 2019 alone, so every penny counts if we are to reach every  eligible child. 

From being a pirate for the day to going on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday or meeting a hero from the stage, screen or sports - a wish is unique to each child’s imagination and tailored to their needs. 

A wish brings families together and brings back a bit of childhood to those who’ve had to grow up quickly and spent a lot of time isolated or in adult company. It is also something positive to look forward to and the chance to be a child first and a patient second. 

A wish-come-true also transforms the lives of anyone who plays a part. Family members, volunteers, sponsors and extended communities get the chance to help plan and, often, to witness, someone experiencing true happiness. This gives families renewed strength and unites communities.