GRANT THE WISH OF A SERIOUSLY-ILL CHILD

Make-A-Wish and other wish-granting organizations provide a vital service for children suffering from the pain and depression caused by grave illness, stress, and isolation.

Medical professionals notice that positive distractions can be so effective at reducing pain that seriously-ill children often request less pain medication as they live out their dreams.

The specific wishes requested by these children are as varied and compelling as the children themselves, but at least half of the wishes involve some type of travel. Children often wish to:

• visit theme parks such as Disneyland and Disney World
• meet celebrities on-location, at their television studio, concert hall, or sports stadium
• attend camps with children facing similar challenges

When happiness is needed most, granted wishes give children (and their families) the chance to have fun outside the rigors of long-term treatment.

The fastest way to grant the wish of a seriously-ill child is to donate expiring or unneeded frequent flyer miles or hotel and loyalty points to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Participating travel companies include:

• airTran
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Continental Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Northwest Airlines
• United Airlines
• US Airways
• Best Western International Hotels
• Hyatt
• Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide