We all face personally or collectively terminal illnesses, physical challenges and or senior limited income barriers. No one in their right mind faces death, limitations or being elderly in a generally light hearted manner. End of life isn’t anything to laugh about.

When an announcement is made that there are available foundations (for adults faced with terminal illnesses, challenges or that are senior) that pay for a lifelong dream or wish fulfillment or, there are organizations for adults that pay for basic needs and other things most people are appreciative of this availability. There are others however when faced with death, inadequate or no insurance, financial and emotional strains, etc. that flatly question; who in the times of sorrow can even think about or have the time for a vacation?

Bear in mind that no one is trying to tarnish or belittle by any means the sorrow, grief, stress, hurt, loss or any other emotional and physical challenge many face or carry. Just remember, life is not over until it is over. Don’t get caught up in the immediate; get caught up in the forever. Dreams and wishes are not stupid, inconvenient, disrespectful, tasteless or anything else inappropriate. Don’t get caught up in the negative but rather realize dreams, wishes and basic needs do in fact carry many positive aspects despite life’s circumstances.

A wish or dream fulfillment is not a vacation but rather a chance for a patient and family to relieve stress for the patient so that all their energy can be focused on healing. A retreat from the unyielding physical and emotional demands can provide a chance to escape and share quality time with self, family and friends. A wish or dream fulfillment provides the recipient, family and friends an opportunity to make lasting memories with special moments that might lift spirits and ease the turmoil of saying goodbye to those we cherish, love or admire. Happy times and cherished memories allow one to pass from this world comforted with the joy of leaving those most valued final beautiful memories – these are the things looked back upon (the good) that can be carried for a lifetime.

Foundations that serve the seniors have reported things as simple as a new dress, a visit to church, a walker with wheels and some even a first vacation of a lifetime, although simple, were events that changed the entire perception of aging and it was all accomplished – one dream at a time.

A dream for the physically challenged could be a day at the beach in a foundation program dedicated to the thought that everyone, no matter what the physical limitations life may have given them, should have a chance to take pleasure from a day in the sun, enjoying all the wonders the oceans have to offer.

Haven’t we all dreamed of keeping a promise perhaps to our children for a special family trip, or dreamed of returning to a place held meaningful in our childhood travels or if nothing else, being provided an opportunity of seeing a special person, one last time. Wishes and dreams come in many forms. They could be life long, fun filled, memory, needs based or one – last – time. Everyone (current circumstances ignored) should have at the very least an opportunity provided to have a reasonable wish or dream fulfilled.

In summary, never miss an opportunity to build upon wonderful memories despite what is being faced. Yes, there are harsh realities. Yes, there is death and grief. Time heals and when you look back; cherish the good things and fond memories built upon, not the sorrow.