Wish Kid Experiences Her American Girl Dream with an Italian Twist
COLUMBUS, Ohio(January 2023):Mia’s wish coming true with Kids Wish Network had her traveling to Ohio for an extraordinary experience at the iconic American Girl store in Columbus. She had a personal tour learning about all the dolls and history of American Girl, and the store even gifted Mia the doll of her choice. Her new friend also got pampered at their All Dolled Up Salon receiving a variety of deluxe styling services. Mia additionally received a gift certificate to come back for a festive tea party with her doll at the store, and a celebration in a bag with crowns, their signature cake and a mini cupcake for her doll that her family later enjoyed at their hotel. Mia dreamed for so long about having her own American Girl doll, and her elevated experience felt absolutely magical!
Kids Wish Network also gave Mia a generous gift card, so she could shop for an abundant array of sets and accessories for her cherished doll. Since Mia loves spaghetti, a special Italian restaurant was chosen for her wish. “Buca di Beppo treated us so kindly,” said her mom Alyssa about the warm reception they received at the restaurant. Mia was welcomed with a personalized sign, and her family was escorted to the kitchen to dine at the coveted Chef’s Table for her elevated experience. A framed photo of Mia adorned the wall, and each staff member came over and handed her a flower creating her table’s centerpiece. “I definitely teared up a few times seeing how much thought went into her arrival,” said her mom. Mia also got to cook with Chef Cameron, assist with calling out orders, and make her own decadent dessert. She also received a gift basket filled with goodies. The restaurant graciously hosted Mia’s family providing dinners and an experience they’ll always remember.
Another highlight of her wish was exploring the nationally esteemed COSI, Center of Science and Industry, filled with fun and inspirational scientific exhibits. Mia’s favorite and most adventurous activity was riding their high wire unicycle. The family’s tickets were courtesy of COSI .During her wish, they also lunched at Sono Wood Fired, enjoying authentic Tucany-influenced Italian fare with meals courtesy of the restaurant. Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection provided beautiful accommodations for their wish trip. When they arrived, Mia said, “This is so fancy!”It’s uniquely located inside the historic LeVeque Tower in the heart of downtown Columbus.“It was so great seeing her be a kid for the weekend and not having to worry about anything else,” said her mom to Kids Wish Network staff. “We really want to thank you all for putting so much work into it.”
Mia has juvenile dermatomyositis,a rare autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to attack its own healthy muscle, skin, and blood vessel tissues. When her symptoms began,they quickly and severely affected her mobility. She couldn’t even sit up on her own, dress herself, and do basic tasks that she previously did effortlessly. Mia began intense treatments of high-dose steroid and chemotherapy drugs, and underwent therapy to relearn how to stand, sit up, climb, and move all over again.
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.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Mia without the help of American Girl Columbus, Hotel LeVeque Autograph Collection, COSI Center of Science and Industry, Buca di Beppo Columbus, Sono Wood Fired Columbus, 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.