A Magical Wish Skyrockets Joy and Family Togetherness
ORLANDO, Fla.(December 2023): Louis found out that his dream was coming true at one of their favorite eateries, Easy Like Sunday. The restaurant was so excited to be a part of Louis’ big reveal, and it was a special moment when they announced the big news that Kids Wish Network was making his dream come true sending him to Disney World, the Kennedy Space Center and more! Meals were also graciously provided by the restaurant.
“He’s been calling family to tell them the exciting news, and he and his brother have been talking about the trip non stop!” said his mom Alicia. Louis’ dad Christian said, “I want to thank you sincerely for this incredible gift to Louis and our whole family. We are so moved to receive this. In the middle of several medical appointments and surgeries this week, we can feel how his upcoming trip has lightened Louis’ spirits and given him something to look forward to. Thank you so much.”
Kids Wish Network flew Louis and his family to Florida for his once-in-a-lifetime wish trip. There were so many favorite moments. Disney was full of them, from the rides, to meeting iconic characters. He especially loved It’s a Small World, the Under the Sea Little Mermaid ride, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction. “The Magic Kingdom was very special because it’s so happy and allows for people to just escape and feel like that’s all there is to focus on in that moment of time,” said his mom. “It was as magical as we all could have imagined!” Louis also loved EPCOT, where they saw spectacular fireworks, and adored characters Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy. Hollywood Studios was also exciting getting to experience the Star Wars themed area.
Universal Studios was also memorable, especially visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Louis documented everything with his tablet, and said, “I took 1000’s of pictures.” He also loved the Harry Potter train from Islands of Adventure to Universal, and his favorite souvenir is a wand that he carefully chose after trying out at least six wands. “Words cannot begin to express the immense gratitude we have for everything that made today one of the most memorable and special days we have had as a family. You have done so much in thinking about everything Louis loves, and all that would make this trip as special as it is.”
At the Kennedy Space Center there was so much to explore for this outer space lover who aspires to be an astrophysicist when he grows up. Louis even got to meet an astronaut, and explore the rocket garden, walking among authentic machines that pioneered America’s space exploration. Louis’ mom said, “They learned about these missions and rockets, and this was truly an unforgettable experience for them to see it all like this. Just incredible.”
The restaurants also went above and beyond for Louis. “We arrived at Maggiano’s to the most beautifully decorated table with generous gifts and balloons, all in the style of Harry Potter!” said his mom. “This was beyond anything Louis or we would have dreamed of.” Dinner was also memorable at KURA Revolving Sushi Bar, where staff was so attentive and kind to Louis showing him how their conveyor belt works, and gifting him a sushi chef’s hat and collection of mini toys in capsules. They also dined at Planet Hollywood which was great fun with a festive atmosphere, and Benihana that provided an amazing experience for Louis getting to watch the chef cook right at their table. He loves cooking, and is now even more inspired. All of the restaurants graciously provided the family’s meals.
Their getaway also included a hospitable stay at Aloft Orlando Lake Buena Vista, a modern hotel centrally located to some of the area’s top attractions. Accommodations were generously donated by the hotel.
“This was an experience that we’ve never come close to experiencing together,” said his mom. “These last few months in particular have been all about our visits to the hospital. Getting away like that just gave us this pocket of time where all we had to focus on was the happiness of our kids and our family. It was the most amazing kind of tired, going from place to place.”
After returning home, it was back to their busy routine of school and medical appointments. Even though he’s back to doing things that are difficult, his mom said, “You can tell he’s riding this wave of happiness.”
Louis has Singleton Merten syndrome, an extremely rare autoimmune disorder causing many health complications throughout the body. His muscles have progressively weakened to the point that he can no longer walk for more than five minutes. Louis copes with pain in his hands, and his body is absorbing his bones. His condition has also caused problems with his heart, growth, connective tissues, and eyes. He’s considered legally blind with function in only one eye. Louis has undergone 11 corneal transplants since the age of 2, and has about four surgeries a year.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Louis without the help of Aloft Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Planet Hollywood, KURA Revolving Sushi Bar, Easy Like Sunday, Benihana, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs.
Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.
Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.
If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.