You have something worth smiling for

♥ Share the power of a Wish ♥

Inspired is a most definitely an understatement. Becoming a volunteer for Make A Wish (MAW) Australia Foundation was probably one of the best decisions of my life. Since its establishment, MAW Australia has granted over 7, 000 wishes to children.

The job of doctors is to treat the child's illnesses. The job of  counsellors is to make sure the child can cope. But the job of a MAW volunteer is to instill hope, bring happiness and grant the wishes of these children with life-threatening illnesses. Yet...oftentimes, it is the children who inspire the volunteers and their smiles are the ones that bring others happiness. 

I have only been a volunteer since July this year and only visited 2 children, but I don't regret a single moment. It was a spontaneous and random thought one night that I wanted to volunteer for a charity, and Make a Wish seemed like a good choice. 

Tonight I had the absolute pleasure of meeting a beautiful young boy who told me all about his wish for the "Ultimate Gaming Room". Despite the fact he tackles the disease CYSTIC FIBROSIS every day of his life, he could not wipe the smile from his face when talking about his wish. 

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common life threatening genetic disorder amongst Caucasians. It primarily affects the respiratory system, the digestive system  and the reproductive system. In the lungs, mucus clogs the tiny air passages and traps bacteria. Repeated infections and blockages can cause irreversible lung damage and a shortened life. The pancreas is also affected, preventing the release of enzymes needed to digest food. This means that people with CF can have problems with nutrition and must consume a diet high in kilojoules, fats, sugar and salts.

This amazingly organised, talented and lively young boy had everything about his wish sorted. He had screen captures from YouTube of exactly what set up he wanted. Brand names were chosen, head sets were included, video games were names as well as the type of PC and screens. Not to mention the leather office chair that was a MUST have. He made us all laugh with his enthusiasm and incredibly positive and outgoing personality. 

Being a volunteer has opened my eyes and reassured me that I am so lucky to have the life that I do. To see the smiles on beautiful faces who tackle life threatening illnesses as part of their every day routine is inspiring. To think that a hospital visit is as normal in these families as a trip to the local store for milk is a crazy thought. 

For those of you who struggle to find a reason to live every day, or wonder what purpose your life has...you should look to these children who have every reason to frown...yet they go on living with the most beautiful smiles. If you have ever considered becoming a volunteer, I can sit here and tell you that every single second is worthwhile.  

If you would like to make a donation to support Make a Wish and help us grant wishes to sick children please click here. 

Please also watch this space...and look out for the launch of some BIG EXCITING NEWS for Make a Wish Foundation Australia coming SOON!

Follow Make a Wish on Facebook and Twitter! OR "Like" the facebook page of the branch that I volunteer for at Brisbane South here. 

Our Mission: To grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.