Make-A-Wish SC marks 41 years of granting wishes

Make-A-Wish South Carolina is marking 41 years and has granted more than 4,700 wishes; about 325 medically qualified children remain in the pipeline.

Make-A-Wish South Carolina is marking 41 years of granting wishes to children with critical illnesses. The chapter traces its first wish to 1984, when a 5-year-old named Louis was brought onto the field at a Citadel game. Since then, the organization says it has granted more than 4,700 wishes while operating as an independent nonprofit that serves South Carolina. This holiday season the chapter reports it is working to grant as many wishes as possible. Key facts: - Make-A-Wish SC reports it has granted more than 4,700 wishes since the first wish in 1984. - The first wish involved a 5-year-old named Louis who wanted to be a football player and was brought onto a Citadel home field. - The chapter says all funds raised in South Carolina stay in the state and that it operates as an independent nonprofit branch. - About 325 medically qualified South Carolina children are reported to be waiting for wishes to be granted. - Recent holiday initiatives include a collaboration with Charleston Candle Co., regional holiday parties supported by local donors such as Motley Rice LLC, and an online gift card drive. Summary: Make-A-Wish SC and its partners report that fulfilling wishes can strengthen children's well-being and positively affect medical outcomes, according to doctors and parents. The chapter is focusing on holiday fundraising, local collaborations and regional events to work through the waiting list of about 325 children. Volunteers and donations are described as central to sustaining those efforts in the weeks ahead.