Kelly Kramer has spent more than three decades caring for children with critical illnesses. As a longtime pediatric nurse, she found her passion in pediatric oncology, where she’s dedicated over 30 years of her career. She continues to support pediatric oncology patients and families at Comer Children’s Hospital, playing a key role in both hands-on care and the Make-A-Wish referral process. 

Kelly’s first experience with Make-A-Wish came early in her career, during a time when treatment options were limited and families were facing heartbreaking diagnoses, leaving them with very little hope.

“When I first started, we were curing maybe 25 percent of kids. Now, it’s closer to 85 percent,” she said. Medical advancements continue to improve these survival rates as research has allowed access to new medications and lifechanging treatments. While this is crucial, the reality of treatment is still exhausting physically, mentally, and emotionally.

"Thankfully this is where Make-A-Wish comes in, providing families with more than medicine can offer," says Kelly.  

From the very first call, Make-A-Wish Illinois can serve as a turning point, increasing motivation, building confidence, and helping families move forward stronger than ever. Kelly recalled a teenage patient who wished to write, direct, and act in his own original movie. Make-A-Wish brought in a full production crew, professional actors, and a real set to bring his vision to life. The experience even ended with a red-carpet screening for friends and family.

“I was in shock by all that was accomplished and as the process went on, it truly changed him,” Kelly said. “He came back to clinic a completely different person. He had this spark and confidence that neither I nor his parents had seen in him since diagnosis.”

For Kelly, it is moments like these that show just how much a wish can do. 

“Wishes give patients and families the chance to step outside their harsh reality and for that moment, they no longer feel like patients or caregivers. They are simply just living.”

It is medical professionals like Kelly who are helping to change the narrative for kids facing a devastating diagnosis. Not only is she working to cure her patients, but to improve their overall quality of life and well-being. She sees the power of a wish and continues to advocate, encourage, and support every child with an eligible condition to experience it.