Enjoying my job, making worthy wishes come true

"When you hear directly from parents about what a wish meant to their child, it really hits home," says Ben O’Connell of Make-A-Wish Ireland

Rory McIlroy gifts a putter to young Michael Horgan, from Terenure, at the 2023 Irish Open Pro-Am at The K Club. Michael was a special guest of Rory's during the 9th hole thanks to Make-A-Wish. Picture: Cian O'Regan

Make-A-Wish Ireland has one powerful mission – to grant the wishes of children living with critical medical conditions, bringing hope and joy at a time when it matters most.

Since 1992, more than 3,500 wishes have been granted nationwide – including 229 in 2025 alone. Each one gives a child a break from hospital routines, treatment plans and medical uncertainty.