Teen Feels Like a Superhero On-Set of Captain Marvel
Elijah Fitzpatrick aspires to be a film director and had the ultimate production experience on-set of the blockbuster film Captain Marvel. Kids Wish Network, a children’s charity that grants wishes for kids with life-threatening illnesses, flew Elijah and his family to Los Angeles. They were chauffeured in style by Norman Lewis Limousines to the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank and began his tour at the Disney Legends Plaza. Elijah saw iconic bronzed handprints, including his most revered, casting by Stan Lee. Elijah was given an exclusive VIP tour of the Marvel Studios offices, seeing authentic props and costumes from the Marvel movies. Elijah proved his worth as he wielded Thor’s actual hammer and Captain America’s shield, and saw Marvel’s library with all the comics referenced in creating the films. Then came the thrill of a lifetime – he previewed the trailer for Captain Marvel, being among the first in the world to see it.
Elijah’s family was escorted to a private tent, and seated in director chairs personalized with their names and Captain Marvel logo. Elijah sat close to all the action while a scene of Captain Marvel was being filmed. After shooting, the film’s stars Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson, and actor Clark Gregg visited with Elijah, all signing his special Captain Marvel poster. Brie graciously took his treasured memento to other cast members, getting him even more autographs. Elijah also met with directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. Their signatures on his poster give him further inspiration to follow his dreams. He was also given lots of Marvel swag, and his family was gifted the chair covers from their special time on-set. “It was an amazing experience,” said Elijah’s mom Julianne. “What 16-year-old from Nebraska gets to do this!”
Elijah also received a private tour of Walt Disney’s nostalgia-filled office, seeing Walt’s original renderings of Disneyland and collection of Oscars. Elijah felt golden, getting to hold one of Walt’s treasured Oscar statuettes. As part of his wish, the family stayed at the beautiful Andaz West Hollywood in its opulent Penthouse Suite and enjoyed memorable dining at the Cheesecake Factory.
Even though Elijah deals with the challenges of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, his wish gave him motivation and hope. “He hasn’t stopped talking about it,” said his mom. “Thank you so much for his wish.”
“Elijah’s extraordinary experience was life-changing for him, and something that he never thought possible,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Tam Lai. “We’re so grateful to everyone at Marvel and Disney for making Elijah’s wish so spectacular.”
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.
