Meet a Make-A-Wish Champion of Hope
Ashlee Blumhoff, APRN-CNP, CPHON - Pediatric Hematology/Oncology - Sanford Children's
What kinds of reactions have you seen among patients and families you've referred to Make-A-Wish?
Ashlee Blumhoff, APRN-CNP, CPHON
"In my many years here at Sanford and working with Make-A-Wish, I have been blessed to see so many kids granted wishes. Having an ill child affects the entire family. Families will often return from their Make A Wish experience and tell us they didn't realize how much they needed that, that the entire family needed that. It is an opportunity where everyone just gets to enjoy each other, have fun, and for just a brief moment in time forget the challenges that come with having an ill child. It is why I will continue to promote and refer families to this amazing organization."
Why should other providers consider referring to Make-A-Wish?
"It gives patients and families something to look forward to when, in the moment, life feels very hard. We love when they come back excited to tell us about their experiences and show us pictures. In my mind, there is really no downside. It doesn't cost the families anything and makes a huge impact in their lives."
Who is eligible for a referral to Make-A-Wish?
Children must meet these criteria at the time of referral:
Be between 2.5 and 18 years old
Have not received a wish from another wish-granting organization
diagnosed with a progressive, degenerative, or malignant condition that is life-threatening