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Zone two: the intimate spaces The upper level and most private of the three zones contains the Wishing Room and its adjacent family gathering space, as well as areas used for family respite. Wishmaking space
The challenge of unlocking a child's heartfelt wish is often a daunting one. It involves opening a child to the imaginative possibilities of a wish at a time when life is offering only an escalating series of limitations. It involves eliminating pressure on the child to make a specific wish choice, pressure that comes inadvertently from parents, brothers or sisters, care providers, previous wish recipients, and media.
At the heart of our building is a Wishing Room. The Wishing Room is on a private upper level with views to the mountains and the stars. In this space, children are led through an interactive wishmaking activity in a playful environment. Child life specialists and expressive therapist assisted in designing a process to help children in all developmental stages imagine and express their personal aspirations. A Place of respite and retreat from the hospital
"I think a family room is a wonderful idea! There have been so many times I've wanted to 'escape' from the hospital, even for a few hours, but had nowhere to go. It would make a huge difference in terms of morale and rejuvenation. Thank you for wanting to do this. There is a great need for it and I'm sure it will be greatly appreciated.” - Wish Parent
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Our
focus in the wish process is usually on the end result, the wish fulfilled.
And yet the child's empowerment in making the wish is every bit as important
as the child's delight in fulfilling the wish. Wishmaking is the time
of imagination...of hope...of reaching out for a more positive future...of
faith that impossible thingsmight still be possible. 
The
act of wishing should be a uniquely magical moment, like the first time
a child spots a shooting comet on a starry night...or blows out the birthday
candles all by herself. It should involve a ritual, an action, an event
that is somehow out of the ordinary...set apart from everyday life. By
changing the wish making process from a home environment to a place known
for its magic of making wishes come true, the entire process becomes a
truly enchanting experience.
Although
A Wishing Place isn't a place for overnights, it is a place to come
for quiet, private time in a difficult day. A family retreat room provides
a break from 24-hour stretches in a hospital corridor, especially when
other children and infants are involved.