Ronan Meets Mickey Mouse and Soaks Up the Magic in Orlando

ORLANDO, Florida – Ronan had no idea his teachers and classmates were in on a big surprise. His classmates even donned Mickey ears and made a special banner for the top-secret occasion. When it was time for the big reveal, his teacher announced that Kids Wish Network was making Ronan’s dream come true by sending him to Disney World!

Everyone celebrated with cupcakes, and balloons added a festive touch. The sweets and balloons were donated by Safeway. It was an extra special treat for all the kids, and they loved being part of Ronan’s meaningful surprise.

Kids Wish Network flew Ronan’s family to Orlando for their heartfelt adventure. He had the best time ever, especially meeting Mickey Mouse, who he absolutely adores.

“He got to do a private meet and greet with Mickey, and he was definitely starstruck,” said his mom Katie. “He was very excited and gave Mickey a two-arm hug which he doesn’t do very often, so that was very special.”

Ronan also got to meet Chip and Dale, and he rode all the rides that his dad and brother did.

“When he saw the castle at the Magic Kingdom, he got so excited and started screaming,” said his mom. “I also loved watching his face light up going through all the different worlds.”

Their special passes to bypass the lines helped maximize their fun, enabling them to go on favorite rides multiple times, and visit three Disney parks and Universal Studios.

The restaurants on Ronan’s wish were also special celebrations.

“Applebee’s was a ton of fun, and they had such a giant basket of goodies for him that we had to ship stuff home,” said his mom. “They were incredible there.”

Maple Street Biscuit Company provided his family with breakfasts on two days and also gifted him merch and other goodies, along with gifts for his family. They were attentive and kind.

Another memorable dining experience was at Rodizio Grill The Brazilian Steakhouse, with endless meats carved tableside in a lively atmosphere. Going to Bahama Breeze for the first time was also a treat, as well as breakfast at First Watch, which is one of their favorite places for breakfast back home. Ronan’s mom shared how kind, warm, and generous everyone was, making each meal feel extra special. All of the restaurants graciously provided his family’s meals.

His family stayed at The Fountains, which Ronan’s mom described as incredible. “Everyone was so nice and the kids loved swimming in the pool at night.” Accommodations were generously provided by the resort.

When Ronan was born, he struggled to breathe and needed to be intubated, spending 22 days in the NICU. His diagnoses include epilepsy, B cell dysfunction, and partial deletion of the 21st chromosome, along with additional health challenges. Ronan currently takes 16 medications and has many medical appointments, seeing an immunologist, neurologist, nephrologist, and pulmonologist. He undergoes physical and occupational therapies, as well as horse therapy to help him with balance, core strength, and motor skills.

Many Thanks

Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Ronan without the help of The Fountains, Applebee’s, Rodizio Grill The Brazilian Steakhouse, Maple Street Biscuit Company, First Watch, Bahama Breeze, Disney, Universal, Safeway, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope.

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.