DJ is a Colorful Character in Disney Animation Wish

Wish Kid DJ loves all things Disney - especially movies and shows which bring him great happiness. He also has a fascination with voices in animated films and hoped to one day become a voice talent in a cartoon. Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses, reached out to Disney Television Animation about DJ and his aspirations. In typical Disney style, the animated production company designed an extraordinary Disneytastic wish. DJ had no idea his dreams would become a reality in vivid color.

DJ was hired as a cast member for Disney’s animated adventure series Milo Murphy’s Law, to appear on the show’s episode “A Clockwork Origin.” Disney animators would be sketching DJ into a cartoon character that he would also record voicing for at Walt Disney Animation Studios.

When DJ was born, his heart was not positioned properly. He had to be resuscitated and underwent surgery to sustain his life. It was a very stressful time, and during the surgery, he suffered a stroke. Days later, he had another surgery to reposition his heart. DJ was also facing other challenges, being in and out of the hospital for seizures - he was averaging 100 a day. DJ was diagnosed with epilepsy and required another surgery to remove a portion of his brain. It was successful in drastically helping to eliminate his daily seizures. DJ also has cerebral palsy.

DJ’s dream day began with a luxurious limousine arriving at his home, courtesy of Exclusive Sedan Service. Their first stop was a memorable dining experience at the legendary Palm in Downtown LA. 

After lunch, DJ and his family were chauffeured to the magical Walt Disney Animation Studios. DJ had stars in his eyes meeting celebrities featured on Milo Murphy’s Law, including the iconic “Weird Al” Yankovic and actress Chrissie Fit, best known for her roles in Pitch Perfect 2 and Teen Beach Movie.

DJ also enjoyed watching actors from other projects recording their scenes. And then it was DJ’s turn… he approached the microphone, put on headphones, and voiced his line. DJ stayed in perfect character – playing himself in his acting debut. “It’s something he’s always dreamed of doing,” said DJ’s dad Dennis. “He always pays special attention to who is voicing a character in a cartoon and tries to figure it out.”

Milo Murphy’s Law show co-creator, Dan Povenmire, also made DJ feel special, spending time talking with him, and also surprising DJ with keepsakes of his studio experience. He kindly gifted DJ an autographed poster of Milo Murphy’s Law, and an autographed figurine and poster from his other animated hit series Phineas and Ferb.

“Each wish is unique, and we’re so happy when we can fulfill a child’s life passion,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Anna Lanzatella. “We graciously thank Disney Television Animation and Milo Murphy’s Law for making DJ’s wish so personalized and extraordinary.”

“The wish gives him something to talk about with others and makes him feel good,” said DJ’s mom Lisa. “My favorite memory was when DJ had his headphones on and turned around looking at me with the biggest grin. He was so happy that his dream was finally coming true.” 

DJ’s appearance on Milo Murphy’s Law episode “A Clockwork Origin” has aired, and can be seen on Disney’s XD app.

• Kids Wish Network is a national charitable organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children with life-threatening conditions and struggling with life-altering situations. KWN provides for trip expenses, meals, accommodations, and additional spending monies to all wish families whenever traveling as applicable. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs, and refer a child now.