Refer a Child
The referral process is the first step in a child’s wish. A wish can provide a magical and empowering interlude in a terrible and frightening time. Children are energized by a wish–by imagining it, describing it, planning, and anticipating it. Families tell us that a wish can encourage a child to see a future to fight for, and then to fight on, often against tremendous odds, when courage and hope are flagging.
Eligibility
The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Utah accepts referrals for all Utah children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 17 (at the time of referral) whose physicians affirm that they have a life-threatening medical condition that is progressive, degenerative or malignant. If you have any questions concerning a child’s eligibility for a wish, contact the Director of Program Services, at (801) 262-WISH (9474) or e-mail him at referrals@utah.wish.org.
Healthcare providers are encouraged to contact the Director of Program Services for a copy of our medical guidelines to determine a child’s eligibility.
How to Refer a Child
Out of respect for the children and families we serve, and out of concern for their privacy, children who may be eligible to receive a wish can be referred by one of three sources:
• Medical professionals treating the child–such as doctors, nurses, social workers, or child-life specialists
• A parent, sibling, or legal guardian of the potential wish child
• The potential wish child
If a relative or friend makes the initial referral, our process is somewhat different. We do not want to intrude on a family’s privacy and want them to feel comfortable with the wish process. We ask friends and relatives to speak to the family and encourage them to call us directly.
If you would like to refer a child for a wish, contact the Director of Program Services, at (801) 262-WISH (9474) or referrals@utah.wish.org. Alternatively, you may use our online wish referral form.
If you are not eligible to refer a child, please ask the child’s family to visit our website or contact the Director of Program Services at the number above.
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