Inge. One of our originals 

“The first wish I granted was for a six-year-old boy with a critical illness. He really wanted to drive an army tank and find out what it was like to live on a farm. My son is 16 and, fortunately, very healthy, but I now realize more and more that not everyone is that lucky. I’ve long wanted to do something for others outside my work as marketing communications advisor and that’s why I got involved with Make-A-Wish. I now get to grant some 4 or 5 wishes a year. It’s terrible having a child that’s critically ill and I think it’s an honour that I can help relieve the situation a little.  

Inge Toering

"I now realize more and more that not everyone is that lucky."

As wish granter, it’s my job to turn a wish into a reality. I organise the day from start to finish and arrange everything so that the child can have an unforgettable day, like driving an army tank or having a princess workshop. The child gets involved early on in the arrangements so that they have something great to look forward to. 

The day is mainly about having fun, about being a child again and not having to think about hospitals and being ill. This creates a lot of positivity and helps the wish child through difficult periods of illness. When I see the beaming face of a child whose biggest wish has come true, it makes me feel good too. I get to use all my creative skills in granting a wish, whether it’s about making a plan for the wish day to coming up with the details that will make the difference such as decorating a limousine or a location. It’s how I get to give the day an extra special tint.” 

Inge Toering, marketing communications advisor