Make-A-Wish Foundation

Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation's mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish^® experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors and entire communities. 

The First Wish

All his life, Christopher James Greicius dreamed of becoming a police officer. This Wish was to become the inspiration for the largest wish granting organisation in the world.

In 1980, at the age of 7, Chris was diagnosed with leukaemia. Upon learning that Chris’s most cherished Wish was to be a policeman, members of the Arizona State Troopers began working to ensure his dream came true. They arranged for Chris to take a flight in a police helicopter, ride in a patrol car and presented him with his very own uniform. He was even sworn in as an honorary member of the force.

Sadly, Chris passed away shortly afterwards. But the seed had been planted.

After attending Chris’s funeral, two of the State Troopers reflected on the experience of making his dream come true. They thought that if one boy’s Wish could be granted, maybe the same could be done for other children. At that moment, the idea for Make-A-Wish was born.

In 1985, two Australians heard a speech that changed their lives. Since that time, Make-A-Wish Australia has granted over 5700 Wishes to Australian children with life-threatening medical conditions. To find our more about Make-A-Wish, please click here.

Make-A-Wish and Joseph

Joseph is an ambassador for Make-A-Wish Australia. He has have been chosen for his commitment to working with young people and for being identified as people whom the public holds in high regard. Joseph will work with Make-A-Wish, meeting Wish Children, speaking on behalf of the charity, appearing at their signature events and being involved in Wish Granting ceremonies. For more information, please click here.