Twenty-nine years ago, seven-year-old Chris Greicius had one wish – to be a police officer. Unlike most children who have plenty of time to realize their dreams, Chris was battling leukemia and his prognosis was poor. With some passion and hard work, a group of volunteers arranged for Chris to be sworn in as the first and only honourary officer in Arizona history. He was presented with an official badge and given a helicopter ride by his fellow officers of Phoenix, AZ.

Chris’ was the first wish ever granted and since then there have been over 210,000 wishes granted across 30 countries worldwide.

To celebrate and honour our anniversary of making wishes come true, Make-A-Wish^® Canada has launched WishText – a mobile fundraising initiative that will help raise funds for other children, like Chris, who are living with life-threatening medical conditions.

“It’s as simple as it sounds, all you have to do is text ‘WISH’ to 50303 and $5 will be added to your cell phone bill. Net proceeds generated will help support Make-A-Wish Canada’s wish-granting activities across the country.” said Jennifer Ritter, CEO of Make-A-Wish Canada. “We are targeting a younger demographic with this innovative fundraising program and are hoping to rally all Canadians to make wishes come true.”

Currently, there are over 400 Canadian children waiting to have their wishes granted. Whether the wish fulfills a child’s fantasy, creates an adventure, includes a celebrity or sports hero, the common goal is that it allows the child the opportunity to take a break from being sick. Pick up your cell phone and text now or visit www.makeawish.ca/text to learn more.