Columbus Teen with Rare Genetic Disorder Receives Surprise Weekend Getaway from Kids Wish Network

  Columbus, OH (July 20, 2021) – A Columbus native received the surprise of a lifetime late last month when Kids Wish Network picked him up in a limousine for a weekend theme park getaway. 

Brian Durfey was nominated for a wish because of his Costello syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects only three hundred people worldwide. 

“I never really thought it’d happen to me,” said Durfey, as he boarded a private plane to Orlando. “ I just wasn’t expecting it.” 

Durfey was joined by his aunt and uncle for a two-night stay at The Castle Orlando and two days at Universal Studios. 

The teen also enjoyed two nights at the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and a facetime meeting with WWE wrestler Braun Strowman coordinated by Capital Grille. “Seeing the look on Brian’s face was great,” said Brian’s uncle, Donald Hill. Additional dinners during Durfey’s trip were provided by The Hampton Social and The Pavillion. 

Despite the fun weekend, Durfey’s wish almost did not happen due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Everything was canceled three days before his wish was supposed to start,” said Tambra Fulk, Wish Department Manager for Kids Wish Network, “and now today, we get to do it. We get to grant his wish.” 

“Thank you,” Durfey said, “Without you guys, I definitely wouldn’t be here.” 

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About Kids Wish Network

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. Learn more at https://www.kidswishnetwork.org/