In 1980, 7-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 not good.

When the community became aware of Chris' life-threatening medical condition and his wish, it quickly mobilized to make his dream come true. On April 29. 1980, Chris was sworn in as the only honorary highway patrolman in Arizona state history.

And then a profound thing happened. Chris' parents and the Phoenix volunteers witnessed the life-changing effect of this one magnanimous gesture. It wasn't just that Chris got to be a police officer. The granting of his wish gave back to Chris what his illness had taken away... hope, strength and laughter.

Sadly, Chris passed away only four days after his wish was granted. But his legacy lives on through thousands of other wish children and their families. And his spirit continues to be reflected in the generosity of the thousands of individuals and organizations that give of themselves to help share the power of a wish.

A little boy leaves a huge legacy...

Chris never fathomed that his dream would serve as the inspiration for the largest wish-granting organization in the world. But he understood the power of a wish. Now, the Make–A–Wish Foundation^® continues to improve the quality of life for thousands of children with life-threatening medical conditions around the world each year.

Today, the Make-A-Wish Foundation^® has 69 chapters throughout the United States and grants a wish every 41 minutes in the United States. But it all began with the earnest wish of a 7-year-old leukemia patient in Phoenix, Ariz.

Chris Greicius - the 1st Wish Kid

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