Ten-year-old Zoe is outgoing, vibrant, and as her mom Cynthia puts it, “insanely brave.” But in January 2025, her world changed overnight when she was diagnosed with leukemia. Suddenly, her life was filled with hospital visits, long treatments, and many doctor appointments. Through every difficult step, her family stayed right by her side, looking for any ray of light to guide them through these difficult times.  

That light arrived the moment Zoe learned she would be granted a wish through Make-A-Wish®. While some kids take time to decide, her mom says Zoe knew immediately what she wanted. Going to Walt Disney World became her “light at the end of the tunnel,” giving her something joyful to hold onto through every single treatment.  

For Zoe’s family, the news was an overwhelming gift. Cynthia shared that “it was not something we would normally be able to afford,” making them all the more grateful. The excitement was so intense that Zoe barely slept the night before their flight.  

The fun began before they even landed. On the plane, a kind passenger gave Zoe her very first Disney pin. That single gesture sparked a new obsession. By the end of the trip, she was a pin-collecting pro with almost a dozen pins! She picked up her favorites like Cheshire Cat, Alice in Wonderland, and a Muppets pin. True to her thoughtful nature, she did not just collect for herself; she brought home a sloth pin for her teacher and a Baby Yoda for a friend.  

The greatest gift of the trip was simply being together outside of a hospital setting. The best thing about having her family there was being able to share a ride with each and every one of them. Cynthia quickly discovered her daughter is an "adrenaline junkie," whether Zoe was tackling the Rock n Roller Coaster with her cousin or braving the VelociCoaster right alongside her mom.  

The storybook moments brought the whole family so much happiness. Zoe could not wait to meet Alice in Wonderland, and the moment exceeded all expectations when Alice invited her to play hide and seek! Afterward, Zoe visited the Chesire Cat Cafe for a Cheshire Cat Tail pastry and a mixed verry slushie so delicious she had to go back for seconds. Later she met Princess Jasmine and received a floral henna tattoo symbolizing growth, while her little sister chose a butterfly for hope, creating a meaningful bond they shared together.  

While staying at Give Kids the World Village, Cynthia says she could, “spend a whole day there” because everyone was so kind and there was so much to do. At the salon, Zoe worried her hair was too short for a makeover, but the worker told her, “Nope, you aren’t leaving until I finish your hair.” Zoe walked out feeling “like a princess,” calling it the best feeling in the world. 

Zoe’s trip was far more than just a vacation. While Zoe’s positive energy never wavered throughout her journey, getting to share every thrill and memory surrounded by her family who loves her made the experience complete.