ANAHEIM, Calif.(January 2024): Theodore found an extra gift tucked under his Christmas tree. He received a Kids Wish Network teddy bear with some amazing news attached. Kids Wish Network was making his dream come true, sending Theodore and his family to Disneyland! The elevated excitement he felt stayed with him. He was so looking forward to meeting all his favorite characters, especially Mike from Monster’s Inc. who he absolutely adores.

After a month of anticipation, it was go time. Kids Wish Network flew his family to California for his extraordinary wish trip. When they arrived at their hotel, the Residence Inn at Anaheim Resort Convention Center greeted his family in a big way. The resort’s billboard welcomed his family with a personalized message, and Theodore’s name was additionally featured in the lobby. Indulgent surprises also awaited him inside his hotel room. There were balloons, a note from staff, and presents for Theodore and his brother. And then came the monster discovery. They were staying in a two-bedroom suite with a Monster’s Inc. themed kids room complete with bunk beds! It was the room of Theodore’s sweetest dreams. Accommodations were generously provided by Residence Inn and Springfield Suites. 

Theodore’s getaway was filled with so many meaningful memories at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park. One of his most magical moments was meeting and interacting with Mike from Monster’s Inc., an experience his family treasures. Theodore was also so proud of his special wish pass that felt as precious as gold. “He got to jump to the front of the lines,” said his mom Angelina. “He waited for nothing.” His dad Robert added, “Theodore understands that all of the special treatment was because of everything he went through.”

Meals were also a treat. His family enjoyed dinners at California Fish Grill, The Old Spaghetti Factory, and California Pizza Kitchen Anaheim Garden Walk. The restaurants all elevated his wish experience, and donated his family’s meals.

Theodore’s wish trip felt complete. “He checked off everything on his list that he really wanted to do,” said his mom. “He got all the treats he wanted, went on all the rides he wanted, and met all the characters he wanted. He’s still talking about his wish. When the boys go back to school, I’m sure they’ll tell anybody who will listen all about it.”  

Theodore was born premature, and spent a month in the NICU. He had difficulty breathing when he was a preemie, and it later resurfaced with him finally being diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that forms in certain types of nerve tissue. He had a large mass in his chest, and underwent surgery to remove it. His cancer came back near his spine, and he went through rounds of chemo.

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Theodore without the help of Residence Inn and Springfield Suites, The Old Spaghetti Factory, California Pizza Kitchen Anaheim Garden Walk, California Fish Grill, 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.