Anaheim, California – Tristan was in class when he received the best surprise. His teacher announced that Kids Wish Network was making his dream come true—sending his family to Disneyland and Universal. The celebration was made even sweeter with cupcakes for everyone, courtesy of Dots Cupcakes.

Tristan’s wish trip was full of theme park adventures. One of his family’s most treasured moments was hearing his unrestrained laughter as he experienced the thrill of a fast ride. “He was so happy and you could hear his deep bellow laughing,” said his mom Sheila. “It just embodies who he is as a child, even though he's stuck in a body that doesn't work for him. It was magical.” Another special memory was Tristan’s interaction with Donald Duck—seeing him feel so at ease, even reaching out to touch Donald’s hand. His favorite rides were It’s a Small World and Jungle Cruise.

His dining experiences added even more joy to the wish. Buca di Beppo went above and beyond to celebrate Tristan, gifting him Mickey, Goofy and Donald plush toys, an autograph book, and a framed family photo. The staff’s warmth made the evening unforgettable, and Tristan especially loved their calamari—so much that he had seconds. Dinner at P.F. Chang’s was also memorable, with everyone welcoming and attentive. Both restaurants graciously provided his family’s meals.

The wish trip was a chance to simply be together. “It was really nice to be in a happy, let's-put-everything-aside kind of bubble, and be in the moment as a family,” said his mom. “You’ve also given us memories.”

Their stay at Hilton Anaheim—just steps from Disneyland—made the experience even more special. Tristan loved relaxing in his own plush bed, and the hotel generously provided their accommodations.

And there’s more magic to come. His family will be visiting LEGOLAND California over the holidays, exploring the park when it's decorated in full seasonal splendor with themed displays, shows, treats and fireworks. Admission is courtesy of Merlin’s Magic Wand.

“We’re incredibly grateful, incredibly thankful,” said his mom. “You gave us something that we couldn’t have given to Tristan on our own, and I’m forever grateful to have this experience as a family.”

Tristan’s medical journey is complex, with a long and growing list of diagnoses. He had brain bleeds at birth and remained on a heart monitor for the first six months of his life. As a toddler, he began having seizures. His illnesses include Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, epilepsy, ataxic cerebral palsy, osteoporosis, pancreatic insufficiency, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and multiple fractures, among other medical conditions. He has undergone several eye surgeries, uses a G-Tube for most of his nutrition, and relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Tristan has also experienced lengthy hospitalizations.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Tristan without the help of Hilton Anaheim, Merlin’s Magic Wand, LEGOLAND, Universal Studios Hollywood, PF Chang’s, Buca Di Beppo, Dots Cupcakes, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.

Wish Sponsors:

Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios Hollywood - Los Angeles, California - Official Site

FB: Universal Studios Hollywood | Facebook

IG: Universal Studios Hollywood (@unistudios) • Instagram photos and videos

Merlin’s Magic Wand:

https://www.merlinsmagicwand.org/usa

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

IG: @merlinsmagicwandofficial

Disneyland: Disneyland Park Theme Park | Disneyland Resort

FB: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/#interstitialNewPageConfirmation#https://www.facebook.com/disneyland/

IG: https://disneyland.disney.go.com/#interstitialNewPageConfirmation#https://instagram.com/disneyland/

Hilton Anaheim: Hilton Anaheim