Fortune favours brave heart

Tender hearts do not stop making wishes, even when a life-threatening ailment chips them away physically. Even in their suffering, they could pine for a cute little teddy, a cycle, a celebration or a desire to meet a celebrity. That’s where the Make A Wish Foundation steps in.

Monica wished for a pink dress, Bhagyalaxmi for a ‘pattu langa’, Triloknath for a remote car in red colour while Mouli wished for a doctor kit and Obulesh desired a birthday celebration complete with all frills and fun.

These were a few among children afflicted by life-threatening health condition for whom wish fulfilment and a smile on lips was made possible by the Foundation.

1,150 children helped

“In the last four years, we helped 1,150 children in the city realise their wishes that ranged from a toy to a celebrity meeting,” says C. Madhumita, the programme director. The Foundation has 25 volunteers to interact with children in the age group of three to 18 undergoing treatment at different city hospitals, to collect their wishes and return to fulfil them.

Celebrities such as film stars too have been forthcoming whenever there is a wish from a child for meeting and spending some time with them.

“We have been receiving very positive support from the celebrities too,” she says.

Every wish is unique

“For every child, his or her wish is unique and it could range from a colourful toy to visiting a place,” says programme co-ordinator Madhuri.

Many of these children happen to be from the rural side and in some instances, with worried parents not really in a mood to take care of their child’s small wishes.

One boy at a city hospital nurtured a desire to celebrate his birthday with all pomp and gaiety.

But the problem was his parents did not remember his birthday.

So the Foundation team got together and organised a party in such a fashion that it filled the child’s heart with joy and brought tears to the eyes of parents.

Another boy wanted to be a police officer and realised the wish when he could spend a day at a police station complete with an officer’s uniform and salutes from other staff.

The wish fulfilment is classified between publicity and not-to-be publicised as opted by the parents of the child.

In the latter case, it is ensured that the activity is taken up rather quietly, Ms. Madhuri says.

Financial resources are mobilised by the Foundation (Ph.23557772) through fund-raisers while volunteers contribute their time.