ANAHEIM, Calif. (June 2024): It was a few days after Ryley’s birthday, and there was more celebrating to do. He was at his baseball team’s picture day, when their coach instructed the team to gather around for a big announcement. He shared that Kids Wish Network was making Ryley’s dream come true, sending his family to Disneyland and Universal! Ryley paused for a moment taking it all in, and then his shock magnified into the loudest shriek – twice! Walmart made the meaningful moment even sweeter donating a superhero themed cake for his birthday and wish reveal.  

Kids Wish Network flew Ryley’s family to Anaheim for his once-in-a-lifetime getaway. His first flight was also memorable getting to go inside the cockpit and receiving his pilot wings pin. After picking up their rental car, they immediately headed to Universal Studios Hollywood. It was an epic day, and Ryley especially loved the 3D rides and meeting the Transformers. 

After the day’s excitement, Ryley’s family arrived at The Westin Anaheim Resort. There were surprises waiting in their room including a welcome sign, Spider-Man balloons, insulated water bottles, fanny packs and snacks for his whole family… and a balcony with a spectacular view of Disney California Adventure Park! During their stay, they were also treated to chocolate covered strawberries and chocolate chip cookies and milk. The hotel additionally provided them with access to its exclusive Westin Club, enabling them to enjoy continental breakfasts, daily refreshments and snacks, and evening appetizers with stunning views of the Disneyland Resort fireworks. Hotel accommodations were generously provided by The Westin Anaheim Resort.

Some highlights of Disneyland were Ryley’s pre-arranged meet and greets with his favorite superheroes Spider-Man and Iron Man. “When he saw Spider-Man, his eyes got so wide,” said his mom Jessica. He spent a lot of time with Ryley, and even walked him through the park to take him to Iron Man. He also loved meeting The Mandalorian, stormtroopers, Mickey Mouse, and Chip ‘n’ Dale among many other characters. At Disney California Adventure Park, he rode the Incredicoaster three times in a row! Their special Wish Pass enabled them to bypass all the lines for the rides. 

Dinners were also eventful. Buca di Beppo was festive and made Ryley feel special, surprising his family with a massive decadent dessert. They also enjoyed Johnny Rockets at Universal Citywalk with its fun retro diner vibe. Calaca Mamas Cantina gifted Ryley a Spider-Man Lego figurine which he described as “literally the size of my arm,” and gift cards to Cold Stone Creamery for dessert. These restaurants kindly sponsored his dining, donating his family’s meals. 

“Everyone on the wish went above and beyond,” said his mom. “Ryley kept telling everyone ‘my dream came true.’ Everything was fantastic, it was an amazing trip.”

Before Ryley’s diagnosis, he experienced his first seizure at school. Testing revealed the cause, he had SPTAN1 related neurodevelopment disorder. Ryley takes medication to control his seizures. 

Many Thanks 

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Ryley without the help of The Westin Anaheim Resort, Universal, Buca di Beppo, Calaca Mamas Cantina, Johnny Rockets, Walmart Supercenter #5461, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.

Sponsors:

Walmart Supercenter #5461

https://www.walmart.com/store/5461-vancouver-wa 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/walmart5461/ 

IG: Walmart 

The Westin Anaheim Resort

www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/snawa-the-westin-anaheim-resort 

FB: www.facebook.com/WestinAnaheim 

IG: westinanaheim 

Johnny Rockets

https://locations.johnnyrockets.com/ll/US/CA/Universal-City/1000-Universal-Studios-Blvd 

FB: www.facebook.com/JohnnyRocketsUniversalCityCA/ 

IG: johnnyrocketsuniversal 

Calaca Mamas Cantina

https://www.calacamamas.com/ 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/calacamamascantina 

IG: calacamamascantina 

Buca di Beppo- Garden Grove

www.bucadibeppo.com/locations/anaheim 

FB: www.facebook.com/BucadiBeppoGardenGrove/ 

IG: bucadibeppo

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.