Many people are familiar with the Make-A-Wish Foundation for children, but did you know that there are organizations that grant dreams and wishes for adults facing life-threatening illnesses as well? These programs exist to bring comfort, inspiration, and unforgettable moments to cancer patients, recognizing that joy and special memories can be just as healing as medical treatment.
If you or a loved one is facing cancer, you already have enough on your mind—treatment schedules, medical appointments, and the emotional toll that comes with the journey. But amidst the challenges and as the American Cancer Society reports, there’s something deeply powerful about hope, joy, and meaningful experiences. That’s where wish-granting organizations for adults come in.
This guide introduces you to four wish-granting organizations that bring dreams to life for adults facing serious illnesses, including cancer. You’ll learn about who qualifies, what kinds of wishes are granted, and how to apply. If you’re in search of a moment of joy and excitement, take a deep breath—you’ve come to the right place, and your wish may be closer to reality than you think.
Why Wish-Granting Programs Matter for Adults with Cancer
A cancer diagnosis brings more than just medical challenges—it affects your mental health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Wish-granting programs offer a chance to step away from the difficulties of treatment and experience something uplifting.
Across the country, several nonprofit organizations offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, dream vacations, and special gifts to adults with cancer. Whether you’ve always dreamed of meeting a celebrity, taking a trip with your family, or experiencing something truly extraordinary, these programs are here to help.
The Emotional and Psychological Benefits of Granted Wishes
Research has shown that positive experiences and emotional well-being play a critical role in cancer care. Granting wishes to adults with cancer can:
- Boost morale and mental health, providing a break from the stress of treatment.
- Strengthen relationships by allowing patients to create lasting memories with loved ones.
- Improve quality of life, helping patients focus on joy rather than illness.
- Provide a sense of fulfillment, bringing long-awaited dreams to life.
In a study published in Psycho-Oncology, patients who had positive, wish-fulfilling experiences reported reduced stress, improved mood, and a greater sense of hope. These experiences allow adults facing cancer to reconnect with their passions, loved ones, and dreams—reminding them that life is still filled with beautiful moments.
Four Wish-Granting Organizations for Adults with Cancer
Know an adult facing cancer and hoping for a special experience? You’re in the right place. Below, we highlight four incredible wish-granting organizations that help turn dreams into reality for adults with cancer. Each program has its own eligibility criteria and application process, and we’ve provided all the details you need to find the best fit for your unique wish.
Whether your dream is to travel, reconnect with family, or experience something truly once-in-a-lifetime, these organizations are here to help. Each program has its own eligibility requirements and application process. Below, we outline who they help, what they offer, and how to apply, so you can find the perfect fit.. Let’s explore how you can make your wish come true.
1. Dreams of Joy
📌 Website: Dreams of Joy
Dreams of Joy is dedicated to bringing happiness and fulfillment to adults with life-threatening illnesses by granting special wishes. From bucket list experiences to reconnecting with family, their mission is to provide joy and unforgettable moments during challenging times.
Who It Helps
- Adults facing life-threatening illnesses, including cancer.
- Patients who have not previously received a wish from another organization.
- Individuals with a doctor’s certification confirming their condition.
What’s Included
Dreams of Joy works closely with wish recipients to create personalized and meaningful experiences tailored to their dreams. Whether it’s a bucket list adventure, a long-awaited trip, or a heartfelt reunion with loved ones, this organization ensures that every wish is customized to the individual’s unique story. Travel expenses, accommodations, and activity costs are covered, so recipients can focus on enjoying the moment. In some cases, family members or caregivers may be included in the experience to share in the joy and create lasting memories.
How to Apply
- Visit Dreams of Joy and complete the online application.
- Provide medical verification from a doctor confirming eligibility.
- Work with the organization to plan and coordinate the granted wish.
For cancer patients looking for a heartfelt, personalized experience, Dreams of Joy offers the chance to embrace a moment of happiness during a difficult journey.
2. Wish of a Lifetime
📌 Website: Wish of a Lifetime
Wish of a Lifetime, founded by Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Bloom, focuses on granting life-enriching experiences to older adults, particularly those facing serious health challenges like cancer. Their goal is to combat isolation and inspire hope through unforgettable experiences.
Who It Helps
- Adults 65 years or older who are facing a life-threatening illness.
- Individuals who lack financial means to fulfill their dream independently.
- Those who haven’t had a similar wish granted before.
What’s Included
Wish of a Lifetime grants once-in-a-lifetime experiences for older adults, ensuring that each wish is designed to provide a sense of purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Wishes often include travel arrangements, special meet-and-greets, unique events, or dream experiences that recipients may have thought were no longer possible. The organization covers all major expenses, including airfare, lodging, and meals, making sure recipients can fully immerse themselves in the experience without worrying about financial details. Many wishes also provide opportunities to reconnect with family members, celebrate a milestone, or fulfill a lifelong dream in a way that brings deep emotional significance.
How to Apply
- Visit Wish of a Lifetime and submit an application.
- Provide a doctor’s certification verifying a life-threatening condition.
- If approved, work with their team to plan the wish experience.
If you’re 65+ and facing cancer, Wish of a Lifetime can help you reconnect with your dreams and loved ones, making life’s special moments even more meaningful.
3. Marsha Leigh Foundation
📌 Website: Marsha Leigh Foundation
The Marsha Leigh Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling bucket list wishes for adults with cancer and other serious illnesses. They believe that joy, adventure, and special moments shouldn’t stop after a diagnosis.
Who It Helps
- Adults aged 18 or older with a cancer diagnosis.
- Patients with limited financial means who are unable to fulfill their wish on their own.
- Individuals who haven’t received a wish from another organization.
What’s Included
The Marsha Leigh Foundation focuses on granting bucket list wishes that bring joy and excitement to adults facing serious illnesses. Whether it’s a serene retreat, a dream vacation, or an extraordinary adventure, each wish is crafted to provide a memorable and uplifting experience. The foundation covers key costs such as travel expenses, event tickets, hotel stays, and special activities, ensuring that recipients can fully enjoy their wish without financial burden. Some wishes also include unique personalized touches, such as meeting a favorite celebrity, attending a special event, or participating in an activity that holds personal significance.
How to Apply
- Visit the Marsha Leigh Foundation and complete the application.
- Submit medical verification confirming eligibility.
- Work with their team to coordinate and schedule your wish.
The Marsha Leigh Foundation believes that even in the face of illness, there is still joy to be found—and they help make those joyful moments happen.
4. One Day to Remember
📌 Website: One Day to Remember
For parents battling cancer, One Day to Remember focuses on creating unforgettable experiences for families. They believe that lasting memories with children and loved ones are the greatest gifts of all.
Who It Helps
- Parents diagnosed with cancer.
- Families with young children who want to create a special experience together.
What’s Included
One Day to Remember is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for parents with cancer and their young children. These special days are designed to strengthen family bonds, capture lasting memories, and provide a joyful escape from the stress of illness. Wishes typically include a fully funded day of fun, such as a family trip, a private event, or a surprise adventure tailored to the family’s interests. To make the experience even more meaningful, a professional photographer is often included to document the day, ensuring that families have beautiful keepsakes to cherish forever.
How to Apply
- Visit One Day to Remember and complete the application.
- Provide medical verification of a cancer diagnosis.
- Work with their team to create a meaningful family day.
For parents facing cancer, One Day to Remember offers the priceless gift of time, joy, and love with their children.
If you or a loved one is eligible for one of these programs, don’t hesitate to apply. The process is designed to be simple, compassionate, and tailored to your unique situation. Even if you’re unsure whether your wish qualifies, reaching out could lead to a life-changing experience you never imagined possible.
💙 You deserve a wish. You deserve joy. You deserve to live fully.
Your Dream is Within Reach
A cancer diagnosis may change your journey, but it doesn’t have to take away your dreams, your joy, or your right to experience something truly meaningful. The wish-granting organizations highlighted in this guide—Dreams of Joy, Wish of a Lifetime, the Marsha Leigh Foundation, and One Day to Remember—are dedicated to bringing hope, happiness, and unforgettable experiences to adults facing cancer.
Whether you wish to reunite with a loved one, travel to a dream destination, check something off your bucket list, or simply enjoy a moment of joy, these programs are here to make it possible at no cost to you. Every wish granted is a reminder that life’s most beautiful moments don’t have to stop after a diagnosis—there is still time to create, experience, and celebrate the things that matter most to you.
To explore even more wish-granting opportunities, visit:
👉 Special Wishes for Cancer Patients and Families
📌 Because everyone deserves a dream come true.
If you or a loved one is facing cancer, you deserve moments of joy, hope, and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the daily challenges of treatment. Across the country, nonprofit organizations are dedicated to granting special wishes for cancer patients and their families, offering everything from dream vacations and celebrity meet-and-greets to meaningful reunions and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you want to travel, fulfill a lifelong dream, or create lasting memories with loved ones, these programs exist to bring comfort and happiness when it’s needed most. To explore a comprehensive national directory of wish-granting organizations, including eligibility details and how to apply, visit our Special Wishes for Cancer Patients and Families directory today. A dream come true could be just a few steps away. 💙
