Make-A-Wish Ireland has announced the return of Wish Week in partnership with Newstalk.
The collaboration is now in its third year and has raised €337,000 so far.
This year, organisers hope to hit their €500,000 target with the help and generosity of the public.
The Walt Disney Company Ireland has once again pledged €30,000 in matched funding, meaning every euro donated by the public will be doubled up to this amount.
The charity grants the dearest wishes of children suffering from life-threatening illness.
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Every year, roughly 650 children receive the devastating news that they have a critical medical condition - but only one-third apply for a wish.
Make-A-Wish Ireland CEO Susan McQuaid O’Dwyer said this as a huge shame.
“The psychological and medical benefits of wish-granting are backed by research,” she said.
“We hear daily how wishes can reduce stress, improve emotional well-being and even aid medical recovery.”
Ms McQuaid O’Dwyer said she was hugely grateful for the support Newstalk listeners have given over the years.
“The past two years of our partnership with Newstalk have been extraordinary, raising an incredible €337,000 and allowing us to grant more life-changing wishes to children with serious illnesses,” she said.
“As we embark on our third year together, we are immensely grateful to Newstalk for their unwavering commitment.
We are also extremely grateful to The Walt Disney Company, Ireland, who have been a supporter of Make-A-Wish since our inception.
“We know their matched funding will amplify donations and help raise awareness. Wishes have the power to transform lives and we cannot do it without public support.”
Newstalk Managing Editor Eric Moylan said the station was hugely proud of its association with Make-A-Wish.
“Over the past two years, we’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that wishes have on children and their families,” he said.
“Our listeners have responded with overwhelming generosity, and we know that with their support we can make 2025 the biggest Wish Week yet.
“We have lots planned to showcase the joy and vital work that Make-A-Wish bring, so be sure to tune in!”
Every cent raised by Make-A-Wish Ireland will help grant life changing wishes for the children who need them the most.
Be part of something truly meaningful. Join us in bringing light to these journeys. You can donate online at makeawish.ie/donate or Revolut.
LISTEN BACK
Wish Day 2025 - 30.3.25
Susan McQuaid O'Dwyer, CEO of Make A Wish joins Anton ahead of Wish Day, Friday April 4th, on how we can help raise vital funds for critically ill children.
The McDonnell Family's Make A Wish Story - 31.3.25
Ruairi and Fionn McDonnell had the same genetic illness, and both have been granted a wish by Make a Wish. Ruairi’s illness was caught late and sadly Ruairi passed away. Fionn’s was caught early and thankfully he is doing well after a long journey. Ruairi’s wish was to have sensory equipment and Fionn’s wish was to have football goals. Ruth McDonnell Mother of Ruairi & Fionn McDonnell joined Pat Kenny to share their story.
How Make A Wish brought one girl’s dreams to life - 1.4.25
Tanya Monaghan’s daughter Beth had her dream come true with the help of Make A Wish. Beth has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and a learning disability. Her wish was to go to a Taylor Swift concert and Make A Wish made it come true.
Wish Week: Eli’s Story - 2.4.25
