Make a Wish Australia

In Australia today, the latest studies suggest more than 14,000 children are living with a life-threatening illness*. Thousands more are born or diagnosed with serious illnesses each year:

• Approximately 2,400 babies are born with a heart condition each year (aihw.gov.au)

• One in every 2,500 births produces a child with cystic fibrosis (cysticfibrosis.org.au)

• More than 1000 children and teenagers (0-19 years) are diagnosed with cancer (aihw.gov.au)

• One in 2800 children are born with a condition that causes childhood dementia (Childhood Dementia Initiative)

While many of these children eventually go on to lead normal, healthy lives - the fight for their future is all-consuming. During the weeks, months and often years of treatment, there's little opportunity for sick kids to just be kids and enjoy moments other families take for granted.

*Source: Bowers AP. (2022) Estimate of the number of children aged 3 to 17 years with a life-limiting condition in Australia. Figure estimated using data obtained under a Public Health Act granted for Bowers AP. Planning for paediatric palliative care services in Queensland: Characteristics, demographics and health needs of children and young people with life-limiting conditions [unpublished PhD thesis]. Brisbane: Queensland University of Technology; 2020. Contact ap.bowers@qut.edu.au for further information.