Wish is a Magical and Meaningful Time of Family Firsts

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 2023): Milani and her sisters were surprised when Anna and Elsa showed up at their house. It was the beginning of her own special fairytale. The royal sisters came to share some amazing news. Kids Wish Network was making Milani’s dream come true, sending her on an enchanting getaway. Her family would soon be going to Disney World, Universal and other top theme parks. Anna and Elsa’s visit was courtesy of A Fairy Tale Come True.  

Their first day began with a splash at Aquatica Orlando, a massive water park packed with a variety of water slides and play zones. Milani loved the slides and said the lazy river was amazing. 

Their next day was captivatingly magical at the Magic Kingdom. Being a big fan of the Little Mermaid, Milani loved the Under the Sea ride. One of her most special memories is watching the spectacular fireworks show at Cinderella’s Castle.

Other days were spent at Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure. The manager at guest services went above and beyond to make their visit special. He took them to the park’s most Insta worthy spots. “We were a VIP that day, he took us everywhere to take pictures, everywhere, like places that Selena Gomez took pictures at the week before,” said Milani’s mom Lisandra. They also had a special photo session with Spiderman. Milani most loved the Minions, Dr. Seuss and The Simpsons rides. They were also invited to attend Halloween Horror nights.

Milani and her family had so much fun trick-or-treating at Sea World, she was all smiles getting so much candy. Other highlights were taking more pictures with characters and the holiday décor, touching a dolphin, and feeding a shark. 

Dinners were also memorable. Buca di Beppo invited her family to eat at their Chef’s Table, a coveted VIP table located in the heart of the kitchen where many celebrities have dined. Seeing the professional chefs preparing authentic Italian dishes turned their evening into dinner and a show. Milani was also further celebrated with a special sundae adorned with a festive sparkler. They also enjoyed meals at Olive Garden, The Cheesecake Factory, and the Hungry Crab. All of the restaurants donated the family’s dinners. First Watch also invited them to breakfast.

Their stay at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista also created meaningful family memories. The hotel welcomed Milani with a fabulous gift package full of plush toys, mouse ears, hats, snacks and a personalized card. It was very magical getting to see fireworks from their balcony, and they also loved spending time at the pool. Hotel accommodations were courtesy of the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista.

A future visit to LEGOLAND will be provided by Merlin’s Magic Wand. It was a trip of so many family firsts they’ll always treasure.

Milani has DiGeorge syndrome, a chromosomal condition. She was in the NICU for first three weeks of her life, and over the years has undergone seven surgeries. She continues speech, occupational and physical therapies at school. 

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Milani without the help of Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Buca di Beppo, Olive Garden, The Cheesecake Factory, Hungry Crab, First Watch, Universal Orlando, Merlin’s Magic Wand, A Fairy Tale Come True, 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.