Disney Wish Brings Endearing Surprises, True Smiles and Happiness
ORLANDO, Florida – Liam’s wish vibrantly brought to life all the Disney fun and characters that were previously just images he’d adoringly gaze at on his tablet. Experiencing them in person was like seeing a familiar friend.
Kids Wish Network flew Liam’s family to Orlando for their treasured family adventure of firsts, heartfelt moments and endearing surprises. “We experienced a very magical moment at Disney that literally made me cry,” said his mom Amy. “After spending time with Snow White, he reached out and put his hand in hers. He doesn’t usually react very much, so seeing him show his affection for her was the sweetest. It was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”
Liam was also mesmerized by all the sights and sounds of the Disney parade. Mickey and Minnie brought the biggest smile to his face. Seeing Cinderella’s castle was another highlight, as well as visiting the aquarium at EPCOT. He was full of wonder at the parks looking around and just taking it all in. “He loves Disney, and we were so happy to be there with him and see everything that he experienced and his expressions,” said his mom. “The happiness we had spending time together in Disney was all just amazing. I will never forget that.”
Ford’s Garage, a nostalgic service station themed restaurant made Liam feel incredibly special. They surprised him with Mickey balloons, a gift basket filled with Cars movie toys, a Ford Mustang shirt, and took him to the restaurant’s vintage car centerpiece for him to interactively honk the horn which also amusingly emitted steam. They were all so welcoming. Liam’s family also dined at BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse, having another wonderful and memorable dinner. These restaurants graciously provided his family’s meals, and Chuy’s also invited the family for dinner as a supporting wish sponsor
Liam’s family stayed at the beautiful Westgate Palace Resort, also enjoying its heated pool, atmospheric fire pit and lake views. Accommodations were generously provided by the resort.
“My favorite part of Liam's wish was seeing his true smile and true happiness,” said his mom. “We had such a great time and were so blessed and cannot thank you guys enough. Since coming back home, he's been especially smiley.”
Liam was born premature, and spent the first 11 months of his life in the NICU on a ventilator. He then spent an additional 7 months in the Transitional Care Unit. Liam needed a VP shunt for a brain bleed, and a G-tube for feeding. He also had a tracheostomy at 6 months old, which he relied on until only a year ago. He has cerebral palsy, and copes with a variety of medical complications.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Liam without the help of Westgate Palace Resort, Disney, Ford’s Garage, BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Also special thanks to Chuy’s for their support.
Wish Sponsors:
Westgate Palace Resort Orlando Hotel On International Drive | Westgate Palace Hotel / Universal / I-Drive / Hotel near Universal Studios Epic Universe theme park
FB: https://www.facebook.com/WestgatePalace/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/WestgateResorts/
Ford’s Garage Famous Burgers and Craft Beer in Orlando Vineland Outlets, FL - Ford's Garage
FB: www.facebook.com/FordsGarageUSA/
IG: www.instagram.com/fordsgarageusa/
Chuy’s Orlando FL - International Drive | Locations | Chuy's Restaurant
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Chuys.Restaurants
IG: https://www.instagram.com/chuysrestaurant/#
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.