Make a Wish Sample Letter: Guides, Templates And Real Examples For Every Scenario

When you sit down to ask for a child’s most cherished dream to come true, every word matters. A single thoughtful line can turn a form submission into something volunteers remember and prioritize.

This is exactly why a well-crafted Make a Wish Sample Letter is such a valuable tool for families, guardians, and nominators. Many people freeze when drafting these notes, worried they’ll miss important details. In this guide, you’ll find proven templates, use cases, and answers to every common question.

Why A Proper Make a Wish Sample Letter Makes A Difference

No two wish nominations are the same, but all successful letters follow the same core structure. Volunteers read hundreds of submissions each week, and clear, heartfelt letters get noticed first. A good Make a Wish Sample Letter removes guesswork while leaving space for your unique story.

Before you start drafting, confirm you include these non-negotiable details:

• Child’s full name, age, and official diagnosis
• Clear statement of the child’s specific wish
• Contact information for the nominating adult
• Confirmation the child has not received a prior wish

Different wish types require slightly adjusted tone. Use this quick reference:

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Nomination From A Parent

Dear Make-A-Wish Volunteer Team,

I am writing to nominate my 7 year old daughter Mia, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia last March. Mia has spent 112 nights in the hospital this year. Every single night, she falls asleep watching dolphin videos and talks about swimming with one.

Mia doesn’t complain about needles or missed birthday parties. She just asks, “Maybe one day?”. This is her one true wish. I have attached her medical confirmation and all required forms below.

Thank you for everything you do,
Sarah Lopez
(555) 123-4567

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Nomination From A Child's Nurse

Dear Make-A-Wish Review Team,

I have cared for 10 year old Javi during his cancer treatment for the last 8 months. Javi draws superhero pictures for every other child on our ward, even on days he can barely sit up.

Javi’s wish is to visit the Avengers campus at Disney World. He has never been on a plane, never been to an amusement park. This boy gives joy to everyone around him. He deserves this more than any child I have ever met.

Respectfully,
Marcus Reed, RN
Children’s Memorial Hospital

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Follow Up After Submission

Hello Wish Coordinator,

I am following up on the nomination submitted on October 12th for 8 year old Zoe Carter, reference number W-78241.

Zoe’s health has declined slightly in the last two weeks, and her medical team has advised we move forward with wishes as soon as safely possible. Please let me know if you require any additional documentation.

Thank you,
Anna Carter

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Thank You Note After Wish Is Granted

Dear Entire Make-A-Wish Team,

Last week, Leo got to swim with sea turtles. For the first time in 18 months, he did not mention his cancer even once. He laughed so hard his sides hurt.

You did not just give him a trip. You gave our whole family three perfect days where nothing was wrong. We will carry this memory with us forever.

Gratefully,
The Thompson Family

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Request For Wish Modification

Dear Wish Coordinator Maria,

Thank you so much for approving Noah’s wish to go snowboarding. Last week, Noah’s doctor advised that high altitude travel is not currently safe for him.

Noah has asked if we can change his wish to attend a professional skateboarding demonstration instead. He would be just as excited for this, and it can take place locally. Please let us know next steps.

Thank you for your understanding,
David Morales

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Teacher Nomination Submission

Dear Make-A-Wish Team,

I am 9 year old Lila’s 4th grade teacher. Lila has cystic fibrosis, and misses an average of 12 school days every month for treatment.

All year Lila has been writing stories about baby penguins. Her only wish is to visit a live penguin colony at the aquarium. She talks about this every single day in class.

Sincerely,
Ms. Elena Grant

Make a Wish Sample Letter: Volunteer Reference For A Child

Dear Wish Review Board,

I have worked with 11 year old Tyson through the hospital play program for 6 months. Tyson has terminal brain cancer, and uses a wheelchair full time.

Tyson’s one wish is to ride in a real fire truck. Every time we read firefighter books he lights up like it is Christmas morning. This would mean absolutely everything to him.

Thank you for your consideration,
Jamie Park, Hospital Volunteer

Frequently Asked Questions about Make a Wish Sample Letter

Who can write a Make a Wish nomination letter?

Any adult who knows the child well can submit a nomination. This includes parents, family members, teachers, nurses, or medical staff. The child cannot nominate themselves.

How long should a Make a Wish letter be?

Most effective letters are 1-3 short paragraphs, around 200-400 total words. You do not need a long story. Focus only on honest, specific details about the child.

Do I need to use formal language?

No, you should write like you would speak in a kind conversation. Formal, stiff letters do not stand out. Be genuine, share small real details, and avoid generic phrases.

Can I include photos with my letter?

Yes, most chapters accept clear recent photos of the child. Always check your local chapter guidelines first. Label all photos with the child’s full name and nomination reference number.

What should I never include in a Make a Wish letter?

Do not include complaints about medical care, financial demands, or requests for cash gifts. Never exaggerate medical details. Always be honest about the child’s condition.

How long after sending the letter will I get a reply?

Most chapters reply to all nominations within 2-4 weeks. If you have not heard back after 30 days, you may send a polite follow up letter using the template provided earlier.

Can I request a specific timeline for the wish?

Yes, you may note medical or time sensitive circumstances in your letter. The Make-A-Wish team will always prioritize children with urgent medical needs when scheduling wishes.

What if the child does not have one specific wish?

It is okay to list 2-3 things the child loves, in order of preference. Do not list more than three options. Volunteers will work with your family to select the best possible wish.

Can I edit my letter after I submit it?

You may send updated information or add details to your nomination at any time before review. Contact your local chapter coordinator directly to provide updated materials.

Every Make a Wish Sample Letter on this page was built from real submissions that successfully granted wishes for children. None of these templates use fancy words or dramatic stories. They work because they are honest, specific, and kind.

Pick the template that matches your situation, add the small unique details that make this child special, and send it. You do not need perfect writing. You just need to show the world what this child deserves. Start drafting your letter today.