Referring a child can be a difficult step for some parents to take. It is important to understand two things:

Qualification for a wish is not an indicator of the child's prognosis, but of his/her current struggle with a life-threatening medical condition. We grant life-affirming wishes, not "last wishes." For many children, a wish becomes a turning point, renewing their courage and determination to fight for a future.

Qualification for a wish is not based on a family's financial situation. We understand that even financially comfortable families have neither the time nor the emotional energy to plan their child's wish or dream vacation while meeting the demands of medical treatment schedules and other day-to-day challenges of their child's illness. And sometimes a wish is for something that money cannot buy, such as meeting a celebrity or hero. We believe that every child, regardless of financial status, deserves to have his/her heartfelt wish delivered by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for a wish, the child must:

• Have a life-threatening medical condition(defined as progressive, degenerative or malignant, determined by child’s doctor).
• Live in the state of Kansas.
• Not have had a previous wish granted by Make-A-Wish or any other wish-granting organization.
• Be between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 years of age at the time of referral.

Once referred, Make-A-Wish Foundation will talk to the child’s physician and confirm that he/she is eligible to have a wish granted.

Make-A-Wish grants the wish of every eligible child regardless of race, religion, financial or socio-economic status.

Who Can Refer a Child?
We accept referrals from one of three sources:

• The potential wish child
• A parent or legal guardian
• A medical professional (doctor, nurse, child-life specialist, or social worker)

Click here to make an initial wish referral inquiry.

About Wish Referral Privacy:
The 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.