ORLANDO, Florida – Layla wasn’t even a year old when she was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer that developed in both of her eyes. She underwent chemotherapy, laser treatment, and cryotherapy using extreme cold to destroy cancer cells. Layla’s specialized treatment was hours away from home, so her family relocated for a full month, and now make the drive every other week. It’s been a lot to handle: the travel, ongoing cancer treatments, and adjusting to being nearly blind in her left eye.

Having her wish come true was just what Layla and her family needed, giving them a happy detour from her arduous journey to remission, hopefully by her next birthday. Loving all things Disney, her wish was to visit “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” going to Disney World and beyond!

Her family was flown to Orlando for Layla’s very special Disney World and Universal theme park adventure. There were many treasured moments, especially Layla meeting the Disney Princesses and other adored characters.

“I didn't think it would affect me like it did, but watching her with the princesses was so sweet, she lit up like a light,” said her mom Micah. “She's very quiet and doesn't really talk to very many people, and definitely does not hug people, but she hugged every single one of the princesses! And Chewbacca, he really touched her heart, and she didn’t want to leave him.”

Layla was also given special treatment, having her picture taken with both Tiana and Rapunzel at the same time, a very rare honor. Other favorites were Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto.

There were also moments of awe at the Magic Kingdom, watching the parades, fireworks, and seeing Tinkerbell take flight from Cinderella’s Castle at the end of the show. Universal was also memorable, meeting Spider-Man, experiencing the Transformers ride, and being a part of the Minion dance party.

Layla’s celebration continued when she dined. “She had a blast at First Watch,” said her mom. “They were so nice and even got her a surprise.” Knowing how much Layla loves unicorns and horses, they gifted her a large toy horse with pink accessories, and a pink and purple plush unicorn. It was also a treat for Layla getting to have her favorite foods at McDonald’s. PF Chang’s, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Cheddar’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Red Robin, and Krispy Kreme also graciously offered their support as sponsors.

Accommodations were provided by Wyndham Lake Buena Vista - Disney Springs, with panoramic views of Orlando theme parks, Lake Buena Vista, and Disney Springs. Her family’s airfare and additional travel expenses were provided by Kids Wish Network.

“I liked watching her experience new things and seeing how excited she was,” said Layla’s mom. “Layla will definitely be talking about it for a while.”

Wish Sponsors:
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Layla without the help of Wyndham Lake Buena Vista - Disney Springs, First Watch, McDonald’s, Disney, Universal, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Also a special thank you to PF Changs, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Cheddar’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Red Robin, and Krispy Kreme for offering their support as a wish sponsor.

Wish Sponsors:

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