ORLANDO, Fla. (October 2023): It wasn’t Wonderful’s birthday, but it felt like it. Her celebratory cake was adorned with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, along with the sweetest message written in frosting, “You’re Going to Disney!” Her cake didn’t need candles, Wonderful’s happiness lit up the room. She was smiling, clapping and so very thankful. It was wonderful to see Wonderful so full of joy and smiles even before her wish began. Albertsons kindly donated her reveal cake for the happy occasion.

It was so exciting having her dream come true. Kids Wish Network flew Wonderful’s family to Orlando for her once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The wish was all about her, and she felt so adored. One of her standout memories at Animal Kingdom was getting called from the audience to participate in the Lion King show. She loved roaring like a lion on the microphone. Her favorite ride at Universal Orlando was Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey, and she was also chosen to take part in Harry Potter’s wand experience. Islands of Adventure continued the special treatment with a VIP experience, giving her a behind the scenes character meet and greet. She had her picture taken with so many Marvel characters – Spiderman was her favorite. Her family’s theme park passes were provided by Universal Orlando.

Disney was also filled with meaningful memories. Wonderful adored seeing the Disney Princesses at the Magic Kingdom, the Avatar ride at Animal Kingdom, Slinky Dog and Star Wars attractions at Hollywood Studios, and the Ratatouille 4D adventure at EPCOT.

Melia Orlando Celebration donated beautiful accommodations for Wonderful’s wish, graciously making their stay even more special with a 2-bedroom suite. Her family also loved the pool, and the attentiveness of the staff throughout their wish. 

All of the restaurants were so hospitable and welcoming. They dined at Buca di Beppo - Celebration, Smokey Bones, Avocado Mexican Grill, and Bob Evans - Kissimmee who gifted her stuffed animals and a gift box. When Wonderful’s family was unable to go out for their scheduled dinner at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen West Kissimmee, the manager personally delivered meals to their hotel room, along with personalized glassware as special mementos. All of these restaurants gave Wonderful special nights to remember, and provided her family’s meals. They were also invited to Gator’s Dockside Port Canaveral, and Kennedy Space Center as part of the wish.

“We loved everything about the trip,” said her mom Jaquitta. “I thank you guys for everything, we appreciate it so much! My favorite part was seeing the smile on her face, that made me so happy.” Wonderful was especially thrilled getting to ride rollercoasters. She’d proudly say, “Yay, I did it! I did it!”

Wonderful was born premature and spent the first three months of her life in the NICU. She has severe quadriplegic spastic cerebral palsy, and profound neurologic impairment with seizures. She’s endured surgeries, therapies, and relies on her wheelchair. Wonderful has been faced with many difficulties throughout her life, including the recent loss of a family member.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Wonderful without the help of Melia Orlando Celebration, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen West Kissimmee, Smokey Bones, Buca di Beppo – Celebration, Bob Evans – Kissimmee, Avocado Mexican Grill, Gator’s Dockside Port Canaveral, Albertsons, 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.