Once Upon a Time, Fairytale Wish Brings Royal Happiness

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 2023): Mavis found out about her wish coming true surrounded by family and friends at the Carriage House, their special occasion restaurant on the historic Houmas Estate where her parents were married. They’ve celebrated many holiday and family gatherings there, so it was extra special to surprise Mavis at this very meaningful place in front of all the loved ones who have supported her throughout her cancer journey. The exciting announcement echoed happiness across the banquet table. Kids Wish Network was sending Mavis on a Florida adventure to Disney World and LEGOLAND! There was so much to celebrate, and the Carriage House Restaurant helped by graciously providing meals for Mavis and her parents. It was a very special day, and the beginning of her fairytale. 

Kids Wish Network flew Mavis and her parents to Orlando for her memorable family getaway. 

They created so many magical memories at the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and LEGOLAND. The charity also boosted her wish experience purchasing Disney gift cards and the means to cover incidentals making Mavis’ wish fit for a princess.

Some of Mavis’ most special moments were being dressed up in her Little Mermaid costume while meeting her adored Princess Ariel, Princess Aurora asking her to make a special wish, and meeting royal sisters Elsa and Anna from Frozen. Her family chose to do several character dining experiences to elevate Mavis’ character interactions. “My favorite part was watching her meet all the princesses,” said her mom Allison. “As soon as she started talking to them she didn’t stop. And we got to meet a lot of princesses.” 

The elevated happiness from Mavis’ fairytale wish has carried over into many aspects of her life. Since returning from her trip, Mavis has been more outgoing and confident in making friends. Her memories and treasured photos will continue to bring her back to her joyful time of princesses and family togetherness.

At just over a year old, Mavis began to cry a lot and was having difficulty sleeping. A CT scan revealed a disturbing diagnosis. She had germ cell cancerous tumors.  Mavis had spinal lesions, metastasis to both lungs, and a tumor on her tailbone. She was aggressively treated with four rounds of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. Mavis still undergoes various therapies, and continues to be monitored through ongoing evaluations and assessments.

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Mavis without the help of Merlin’s Magic Wand, the Carriage House Restaurant at the Houmas House Historic Estate and Gardens, 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.