The Little Wish Foundation is dedicated to providing hope and joy to children battling cancer. Founded by Liz Loewenstein in 2010, the organization grants “little wishes” to pediatric oncology patients across various hospitals. With the upcoming 25 Days of Joy campaign starting on Giving Tuesday, the foundation aims to raise awareness and support for these children and their families.
Transforming Grief into Hope
Loewenstein’s journey began when she was just 16 years old. She was inspired by her friend Max, who succumbed to Wilms Tumor, a type of childhood kidney cancer. During Max’s wake, Loewenstein learned about the joy simple gifts can bring. His last wish was to receive a puppy, which became a source of immense happiness for him. This experience motivated her to establish the Little Wish Foundation, allowing her to turn one meaningful gift into many.
“The beauty of life is just found in those little things, so that’s the beauty of what we do,” Loewenstein stated. Since its inception, the foundation has granted over 4,500 wishes to children across 19 hospitals in 11 states. Each wish serves as a distraction, providing comfort and hope during challenging times.
Making a Difference One Wish at a Time
The impact of these wishes is profound. Tracy Bevelhimer, whose son Cody received a wish, described the joy it brought. Cody was diagnosed with T-Cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. “Cody’s spirit immediately rose. He picked up that package, and he unwrapped that, and it was his computer,” she recalled. “It wasn’t about the money; it was the fact that it was specifically for him to help him at a time when he really needed it.”
Loewenstein explained that granting these wishes offers children and their families a moment of joy in the midst of their struggles. “It’s giving them a distraction and a moment of hope, comfort, and joy,” she added.
As the 25 Days of Joy campaign approaches, the foundation will highlight a different child each day on its website. This initiative allows supporters to learn about the children and fulfill their specific wishes, helping to create positive experiences during their treatment journeys.
“Truly, every single person can make a big difference,” Loewenstein emphasized, inviting the community to participate in this meaningful effort. By contributing to the Little Wish Foundation, individuals can help transform the lives of children facing significant health challenges.
For those interested in supporting the foundation or learning more about the 25 Days of Joy campaign, additional information is available on their website.