UPDATE:
We had met up with the team the second time a while ago. We sat down exchanged thoughts and discussed on how we could proceed to help determine C's real wish. We did agree not to rush towards a decision until C was ready. Would continue to gather feedback and ideas as we move along.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There were those who asked for equipment, room makeover or a trip to somewhere etc. For C, he asked to see the night parade (at Disneyland). Often squealed with delight whenever the heavily lighted floats ferrying different cartoon characters appeared on Disney Junior.
Well, I could have asked for a powerchair like I mentioned in an older post but instead left the option open till C wishes for something that meant to him. It wasn't until after much persuasion by the nurses and social worker recently that I agreed to put up C's request.
Unfortunately C's wish for 'a trip to Disneyland to see the night parade' came down to 'a trip to the fire station' because of something he had said, "I want to be a fireman when I grow up" in response to the question they asked. Merely because they 'couldn't get anything out from him' as C was immensely occupied with the new toys they bought.
It's a child's one in a lifetime wish and I totally understood that it had to come from the child himself. But I expected them to do more to ascertain the authenticity of it; how much genuineness was in his wish by asking the right questions and collecting relevant information.
They never found out why C wanted to see the night parade. They didn't know his favourite character was Pluto (not Mickey), less know that C loved singing and dancing along to "Mickey Mouse Club House" & "Hotdog" songs.
Perhaps it could have been worse if they asked for his favourite food? (It's chocolate cake by the way), we could end up at the bakery. Just saying...
I was upset and disappointed. Upset that his wish was not granted. Disappointed that his wish was taken lightly (they never got to know why). The (only) alternative offered to us (even after I asked for other options) was no where close to the original wish. It was never about the monetary value to begin with BUT it would have been fitting and apt if they had offered Universal Studios to see other characters of his liking; to watch Chuggington Live or equivalent. I would be equally grateful to them for making C happy.
Honestly, the trip to the fire station could have been fulfilled anytime on our own easily (no costs/logistics/coordination involved). To be fair, they did offer to pay for the cab. Still it's baffling and annoying me to the max.
Tell me what you think.
You truly have a cause to be upset and disappointed. You are the best person to truly know what Caelen true wish is. Naturally, when the "wish granted" fell so short of what it should have been, you are upset. Not sure if there is a procedure in place from the organization in ascertaining the true wish of a child. Kids be kids, they wouldn't have know the impact of what they say. Maybe you can talk to the organization again to find out on how they have followed through the procedure in Caelen case. This is after all, a once in a lifetime wish grant. I thought it is worth another shot to have it granted.
ReplyDeleteBelieve or it, we have been trying to get in touch with the them since they delivered the news. Called them thrice for the past week, the lady doesnt pick up nor return our calls.
DeleteThis is really unacceptable! It's basic courtesy to at least return a call. If the org is what I think it is, there is a page on the web that indicate their process and one of it clearly states that the team will help the child identify his or her one true heartfelt wish. In your case, clearly they didn't do it. I personally feel you should continue to find and talk to them. Whether or not Caelen wish get granted, it pave the right procedure for other children. Let your readers know if you need any support. Perhaps we can even rally together to talk to them. Take care Lowell.
DeleteHave arranged to meet them again next week. Dont know what to expect but definitely setting things right going forward.
ReplyDeleteHave arranged to meet them again next week. Dont know what to expect but definitely setting things right going forward.
ReplyDeleteGlad to see a reply below from the folks. Hoping Caelen will have his wish fulfilled!
DeleteI was down for a week due to food poisoning. Finally found some energy to reply and update. Yeah they have been following up since and helping to determine C's wishes. We have agreed not to rush on settling anything until C is ready
DeleteDear Lowell
ReplyDeleteWe’re sorry that your experience with Make-A-Wish is anything other than positive, and would love the opportunity to address your concerns with you.
Make-A- Wish endeavours to capture, and grant the child's one true wish. We accomplish this by speaking to, and understanding the child from the child’s point of view. A typical wish plan usually goes through a few rounds of discussion and changes between our Wish Granters, the child and the parents before we proceed to grant the chosen wish.
Caelen’s Wish is by no means regarded as granted yet, and we would very much like to see Caelen's wish journey through as we want the best for Caelen too.
At the earliest opportunity, may I call you to speak with you?
Also, please do not hesitate to contact Sarah, our Wish Coordinator, on our office line (6994 9474) at any time should you have any concerns.
Thank you,
Make-A- Wish team
Dear Lowell
ReplyDeleteThe telephone number in the previous message should read:
6334-9474
I do apologise for the error.