"Being part of Make-A-Wish helps me see the positive impact that can be made on my patients outside of just medical management,” said Dr. Shimoni Dharia. “It really emphasizes the need to take a wholistic approach; everyone, especially these kids, needs a little positivity."

A pediatric pulmonology specialist with Advocate Children's Medical Group, Dr. Dharia serves as a member of the Make-A-Wish Illinois Chapter Medical Advisory Council (CMAC), a group of dedicated medical professionals from across the state. The CMAC plays a vital role in helping Make-A-Wish reach more children with eligible conditions by collaborating with colleagues across departments, hospitals, and communities.

"Once I learned what [Make-A-Wish] was all about, I wanted to get involved," shared Dr. Shimoni, reflecting on her decision to get more involved with the organization more than five years ago. Beyond medical outreach and recruitment, CMAC members also provide critical guidance on travel safety for children with complex medical needs, including those requiring nursing care or facing time-sensitive wish circumstances.

Through this work, Dr. Shimoni often remains closely connected to the wish kids she refers, supporting them not only through their medical journey, but also through the joy and hope of their wish experience.

Her involvement doesn’t end with the referral; she often reviews cases for wish travel to make sure the children have everything they need to travel safely and confidently. After a wish, Dr. Shimoni enjoys catching up with families at follow-up appointments, hearing firsthand about the excitement of it all and how meaningful the experience was.

"After clearing wish kids to travel, it's amazing to hear back from them and get to learn about how everything went."

"Dr. Dharia is an incredible supporter and an asset to our mission," shared Dina Thachet, CCLS, the referral outreach manager for Make-A-Wish Illinois. "She has helped us extend our reach to more children with eligible illnesses directly as a provider and indirectly as a Chapter Medical Advisor (CMA). We are so grateful to have her in our corner. She exhibits leadership in everything she does."

"I always find [wishes] to be a positive influence. My day-to-day work is to medically improve my patients' lives but Make-A-Wish gives me the opportunity to really impact my patients' personal lives."

For Dr. Dharia, volunteering with Make-A-Wish is a reminder of the importance of treating the whole child, not just the illness.  Her compassion and commitment exemplify the heart of the Make-A-Wish mission, and her voice continues to be a powerful advocate for the healing power of hope.

Dr. Shimoni Dharia was recognized with the 2025 Healthcare Partner Leadership Award from Make-A-Wish Illinois during National Volunteer Week 2025.