For Christine Birnbaum, a child life specialist at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, referring a wish kid for a wish is a special experience. 

“The reaction I see among children and caregivers when they find out that they are being referred for a wish is one of excitement,” said Christine. “And I feel excited too because I’ve witnessed the amazing wishes of other kids whom I have referred and I know Make-A-Wish will do the same for every patient.”

Christine and her fellow Child Life Specialists understand the value of hope and joy for a child, and how a wish can help each child think of life beyond their diagnosis. 

“A wish gives a child something to look forward to – it brings joy and excitement and all of the feelings that come with knowing something special is being planned just for him or her,” said Christine. “Because wishes are tailored to each child’s interests, priority is placed on making sure the experiences are meaningful and memorable.” 

One of Christine’s most recent referral’s, Audrey, had to change her wish from a trip to Vogue magazine in New York City to be a model to being a model here in Arizona at a Vogue-like fashion shoot. 

“A wish brings attention to the parts of a child’s life that are separate from his or her medical condition,” said Christine. “It gives the child the opportunity to think and dream and plan. It instills hope and is inclusive of families. Most importantly, it is remembered long beyond the day the wish is granted.”

Christine believes the value of a wish is immeasurable. 

“A wish is more than the day itself,” said Christine. “It’s the culmination of conversations and planning and excitement and anticipation, and the memories it creates have a life-long impact on everyone who is involved.”