The Willow Tree Foundation

FAQ

What is a "medically fragile child"?

A child who is (1) technology-dependent in that he or she needs a medical device to compensate for the loss of a vital body function and substantial nursing care to avert death or further disability, or (2) does not need technological equipment, but requires skilled nursing care.
Home Care for Medically Fragile Children: Impact on Family Health and Well-Being. Journal Dev Behav Pediatrics [Article]

Why are respite opportunities needed?

Families of medically fragile children experience high levels of personal demands on their time and unrelenting burdens associated with their child's care. Providing opportunities for parents to take "time out" for themselves in order to maintain stamina and their sense of perspective as well as to prevent burnout, enhances family functioning and helps shape a more nurturing environment for the child and the family as a whole.

Who is eligible?

Respite opportunities are provided to parents and legal guardians of medically fragile children. The Willow Tree Foundation is currently funding respite activities in the state of Arizona, primarily in the Phoenix metropolitan area. As we grow and funding increases, we intend to expand to provide opportunities to parents throughout the United States.

What do we provide?

The Willow Tree Foundation funds activities that allow a parent time to rest, relax and re-energize. Examples of the types of activities offered include:

Day at the spa

Dinner and a movie

Night at a hotel

Day of golfing

Parents are not limited to these activities and are free to ask for a special activity of their choice.