Walt Disney World and Make-A-Wish!

May 26, 2010

Even if you have never been to Walt Disney World, everyone has at least heard of the world's largest and most visited resort.  When the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 little did anyone think (I'm sure they hoped) that "The Most Magical Place on Earth" would become one of the most iconic and symbolistic names in history.

What is the most popular wish destination for Make-A-Wish kids?  You guessed it: Walt Disney World! The Walt Disney Company has a long-standing relationship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and has granted more than 75,000 wishes since its partnership began.  Thanks to Disney’s support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, wish families enjoy tickets to Walt Disney World, special visits from Disney characters and many other magical surprises.  One very special relationship in the Walt Disney World area is "Give Kids The World".  GKTW is its own little village where most of the MAW kids and their families stay during their vacation.  It is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses from around the world and to allow them to experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free visit to Walt Disney World and other Central Florida attractions.  Over 100,000 children have had their dreams come true at Give Kids The World.  No child in need has ever been turned away – and no child ever will.  Give Kids The World is a place where families find joy, laughter, serenity, and a lifetime of memories.  Through the tireless support of  volunteers, employees and generous partners, they dedicate each and every day to these special families.

As a Wish Granter, I simply never know what my next wish child is going to wish for, but I can tell you that Walt Disney World is by far in the lead for the most requested wish that I have personally helped MAW grant.  Take, for instance, little 4-year-old Emily, who greeted me at the door when I arrived to grant her wish wearing a Cinderella princess dress and a crown.  She said she wanted to visit the iconic Cinderella Castle with her parents and grandparents.  Emily's wish came true!  She had her very own suite at Give Kids the World Village, she had a special lunch with Cinderella and enjoyed an unforgettable dinner with Prince Charming.  And Emily even played the part just right by kicking off her shoe so the prince could put it back on her foot.  How unbelievably CUTE!  After her vacation Emily's mom wrote a note saying, “Truly, the Make-A-Wish Foundation helped us all reclaim our lives before Emily was diagnosed, even if it was for a week – a week which we all needed desperately.”

Thank you to the Walt Disney World Company, Give Kids The World, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation for giving Emily the MAGICAL power of a princess wish she could call her very own!