Orlando Wish Brings Universal Happiness by Kids Wish Network
ORLANDO, Fla. (October 2021): Elijah’s wish coming true with Kids Wish Network gave him something positive to focus on during all the stressful and physical challenges of his open-heart surgery. It helped so much having something very special to look forward to, he’d soon be traveling with his family for a thrilling Florida adventure! His wish combined all of his favorite things.
Kids Wish Network flew Elijah and his family to Orlando for his once-in-a-lifetime getaway. Elijah’s Wish Trip was all about him, giving him experiences that immersed him in his interests and elevated his happiness. It was an amazing feeling having his dream come true, and finally going to Universal Studios. Some of his favorite moments were riding the Mummy, and the Fast and Furious attraction, Elijah’s all-time favorite series. And there were surprises. “Universal gave us a gold pass, and we rode every single ride in those two parks in two days besides the kiddy rides,” said his mom Jennifer. “That’s how fast they got us to the front for every ride!” Elijah’s family was so thankful for the special pass to take everything in and even ride his favorites multiple times. He was also escorted by a staff member around the Fast and Furious exhibit where he got to ride several times, sit inside all the cars, and pick out a special souvenir from the gift shop.
Another highlight of the trip was visiting a one-of-a-kind car museum and arcade at Dezerland Park, with tickets provided by the attraction that included a VIP behind the scenes tour. Elijah was especially excited to see the Fast and Furious cars and all the Mustangs. His family also received tickets to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, courtesy of Merlin’s Magic Wand.
The Hilton Orlando Altamonte Springs provided beautiful accommodations for Elijah’s family during their special trip. They also enjoyed memorable dinners courtesy of Bahama Breeze, Marlow’s Tavern, and Red Robin. It was a trip full of meaningful moments celebrating Elijah, and a special time of family togetherness they’ll always remember.
“You have made Elijah's dream come true and I know he was just in awe and had the time of his life!” said his mom. “It was the perfect trip for him! I could tell how hard everyone had worked because it was like you had known him his whole life with all his favorites all into one! Thank you guys so very much!!”
Shortly before Elijah’s diagnosis, he was tired all the time and had no energy to exercise or play sports. Testing revealed his heart rate had declined to less than 40 beats per minute. After being diagnosed with tricuspid valve regurgitation, he underwent an emergency open-heart surgery and was hospitalized for over a week. He may still need a pacemaker.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Elijah without the help of The Hilton Orlando Altamonte Springs, Merlin’s Magic Wand, Bahama Breeze, Marlow’s Tavern, Red Robin, Dezerland Park, 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.