Wish Woven with Spidey, Orlando Adventures and Kindness
ORLANDO, Florida – Kasen was at home and heard someone say, “Hello there did somebody call for your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man?” Kasen was so surprised… Spidey was in his house! Kasen jumped up and down with excitement. Spiderman told Kasen that Kids Wish Network was making his dream come true, sending his family to Disney World, Universal and LEGOLAND! Spidey’s visit also included superhero training for Kasen’s family teaching them a special oath, combat and dance skills. Spider-Man also awarded Kasen an Honorary Superhero certificate, his very own medal, cape and mask. Spidey’s visit was courtesy of Southern Belle Character Company.
It was finally time for his wish trip, and Kids Wish Network flew his family to Orlando. It was especially exciting being Kasen’s first time traveling on an airplane. When they arrived at Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration, Kasen and his family were warmly welcomed with gifts waiting in their room. The wish had just begun and there were already presents including a Paw Patrol pillow, blanket, candy, coloring books, drinks and more. Kasen also loved the hotel’s pool. Delta Hotels Orlando generously provided his family’s accommodations.
Some highlights of Kasen’s wish trip were meeting so many characters at Universal, experiencing the Magic Kingdom for the first time and seeing the castle, and going to EPCOT and watching the fireworks. Kasen was feeling especially courageous at Hollywood Studios, bravely riding his first kiddie roller coaster. “I can’t believe he got on the roller coaster,” said his dad Shaquille. And his mom Danesha added, “And he wanted to go on it again!” LEGOLAND was also fun meeting so many LEGO characters, and getting unexpectedly soaked on one of the rides. It was a magical feeling experiencing so many family firsts together.
His family enjoyed dinner at Ford’s Garage who festively decorated their table and had a bunch of gifts for his family, Sickies Garage & Brews who also surprised Kasen with gifts, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen who gave him even more gifts, and Red Robin. All of the restaurants gave him personalized attention and graciously provided his family’s meals.
All throughout Kasen’s wish there were thoughtful details that made his whole family feel special. It was a very meaningful trip that will continue to bring Kasen smiles through all their family photos and memories.
Before Kasen’s diagnosis, he was having severe stomach pain. A biopsy revealed he had neuroblastoma, and the cancer was found in his left abdomen and was wrapping around his arteries. He underwent induction chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation. He is now cancer-free, and continues to have scans to monitor his health.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Kasen without the help of Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration, Merlin’s Magic Wand (LEGOLAND admission), Ford’s Garage, Red Robin, Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Southern Belle Character Company, Universal, Disney, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.
Sponsors:
Southern Belle Character Company
FB: www.facebook.com/SouthernBellePrincessParties/
IG: @sbcharactercompany
Delta Hotels Orlando Celebrations
FB: https://www.facebook.com/deltahotelsorlandocelebration/
IG: @deltamarriottorlando
X: @deltahotelORL
Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews
FB: www.facebook.com/SickiesKissimmee/
IG: @sickiesfl
X: @sickiesfl
FB: www.facebook.com/RedRobinInternationalDrive554/
IG: @redrobinburgers
X: @redrobinburgers
FB: www.facebook.com/CheddarsScratchChickenOrlandoIDrive/
IG: @cheddarskitchen
X: @cheddarskitchen
FB: www.facebook.com/FordsGarageChampionsGate/
IG: @fordsgarageusa
X: @FordsGarage
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.