ORLANDO, Florida – Zona was so surprised to learn the real reason behind her school’s Disney-themed assembly. She was all smiles when the school nurse announced that Kids Wish Network was making her dream come true and sending her to Disney World. It was especially touching that the nurse shared the news, since she’s the one who referred Zona for her very special wish.

The celebration didn’t stop there. Zona watched videos from her doctor, therapists, and teachers, all sending their support and well wishes. Her schoolmates cheered her on with a big congratulations, and the festivities continued with fun activities to make the day even more special.

Zona’s flight to Orlando was full of anticipation. She was on her way to see Mickey. And when she finally experienced Disney, it was everything she dreamed of and more.

“It was amazing!” said Zona’s mom, Rachel. “She got to see all the characters that she wanted to. I think we counted 34!” Zona enjoyed special moments with each one, taking photos and collecting autographs along the way. Her favorites were Mickey, Minnie, Ariel, Stitch, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Zootopia’s Nick and Judy.

Zona also loved the rides, especially The Little Mermaid at Magic Kingdom and the safari adventure at Animal Kingdom. She even got to sit in the front with an incredible view of the animals, and she loved the giraffes. Together, Zona and her mom shared laughter, precious moments, and so much Disney magic as they visited all four theme parks.

Their dining experiences added even more joy to the trip. Maple Street Biscuit Company welcomed them with warmth and hospitality during Zona’s special breakfast. “Everyone was so kind and sweet,” said her mom. Red Robin was also festive and fun, McDonald’s was a treat, and Zona loved having fresh-baked doughnuts at Krispy Kreme. P.F. Chang’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Cheddar’s also offered their support as wish sponsors. Accommodations were provided by Hilton DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Downtown.

Everything was new to Zona, and it was such a joy for her mom to see her excitement as she took in all the wonders of her wish. It was just what they needed.

Zona continues to be challenged with her diagnosis of KMT2B, a rare genetic condition caused by mutations or deletions in the KMT2B gene. The past couple of years have been especially difficult as her illness has progressed. Zona primarily relies on her wheelchair to get around, and it has also affected her speech. She has rods in her head to help stimulate nerves in her brain, and she is working on building muscle strength through horse therapy and physical therapy.

Wish Sponsors:
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Zona without the help of Doubletree by Hilton Orlando Downtown, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Red Robin, McDonald’s, Krispy Kreme, Disney World, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Also a special thank you to P.F. Chang’s, Cheddar’s and Buffalo Wild Wings for their support.

Wish Sponsors:

Disney World: Vacation Checklist & My Disney Experience | Walt Disney World Resort

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

IG:https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/#interstitialNewPageConfirmation#https://www.instagram.com/waltdisneyworld/

Doubletree by Hilton Orlando Downtown: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando Downtown

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

IG: https://instagram.com/doubletree

Cheddar’s: West Kissimmee | Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen Locations

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

IG: https://www.instagram.com/cheddarskitchen/

Krispy Kreme: Krispy Kreme

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