Granting Last Wishes of the Terminally Ill

Supporting someone's final wishes

When someone you care about has a terminal illness, you may want to do more than simply be there for them. Many people find that helping to fulfil a loved one's wishes gives purpose during a difficult time and can create meaningful moments together.

For the person who is ill, and for those around them, things that once seemed like distant plans can suddenly feel urgent. Making these wishes happen can become a priority, though how this feels will be different for everyone.

Why last wishes matter

Most of us have things we hope to do one day. We put them off, assuming there will be time later. A terminal diagnosis changes that. The future feels less certain, and the things that were always meant to happen eventually may need to happen now.

These wishes vary enormously. One person might want to see a particular place or reconnect with someone they have lost touch with. Another might hope for a trip abroad or to meet someone they admire. What feels significant is deeply personal.

Fulfilling a wish may bring comfort, joy, or a sense of completion. For those helping to make it happen, there can be meaning in that too, though this is something each person experiences in their own way.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

How to find out what someone wants

Talking about wishes can feel awkward. Some people worry about upsetting the person who is ill, or about raising hopes that cannot be met. But many people with a terminal illness welcome the chance to talk openly about what matters to them.

These conversations do not need to be formal. Sometimes things come up naturally. Open questions can help: what would make you happy right now, is there anything you have always wanted to do, or is there someone you would like to see?

Listen without rushing to promise anything. Some wishes may be straightforward to arrange. Others may need more planning, support, or outside help. Honesty about what is possible can be a way of showing care and respect.

It is also worth remembering that wishes can change. What someone wanted a month ago may not be what they want now. Checking in gently from time to time can help.

Advanced care planning frameworks, such as the Preferred Priorities for Care document, can also help people express wishes that go beyond specific experiences, including how and where they want to be cared for.

Organisations and practical considerations

Several UK charities exist specifically to help grant wishes for people with life-threatening illnesses. Some focus on children, while others support adults or people of all ages.

  • Make-A-Wish UK grants wishes for children and young people aged 3 to 17 with life-threatening conditions.
  • Rays of Sunshine supports children up to age 18 living with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions.
  • Willow Foundation helps adults aged 16 to 40 who are seriously ill, offering special days and experiences.
  • Dreams Come True works with children and young people who have life-threatening illnesses.

These organisations typically have application processes and may need information from medical professionals. Waiting times and eligibility vary, so it is worth contacting them early.

Hospices and palliative care teams sometimes assist with wishes too, though their capacity to help will depend on resources and circumstances. Your GP or hospital team may be able to suggest options.

If arranging something yourself, think carefully about what is realistic. Consider the person's health, energy levels, and any medical needs. Some wishes may need to be adapted to suit changing circumstances.

Travel insurance for people with terminal illnesses can be difficult to arrange. Specialist providers such as Insurancewith or World First do offer cover, but terms, exclusions and premiums vary considerably. Check policies carefully before booking anything.

If costs are a barrier, some charities may help with funding. Crowdfunding is another option, though this will not suit everyone.

Throughout this process, looking after your own emotional wellbeing matters too. Supporting someone through their final wishes can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting and painful. Asking for help when you need it is not a sign of failure.