Leon has always been a social and loving child. He has faced the challenges of living with a life-threatening autoimmune disorder, always pushing forward, despite the hurdles life throws his way. Make-A-Wish became a bright spot in Leon’s life.

“I honestly didn’t know what to expect,” Leon’s mother shared. “But once we began the process, everything was clear. [Make-A-Wish] had everything written out for us, making the whole experience easy to navigate. It felt like a dream, honestly.”

When it came time for Leon to choose his wish, it didn’t take long for him to decide. The family made their way to Walt Disney World for a trip that would soon become a highlight of Leon’s life.

“Leon felt special at every turn,” his mother Corranda recalled. “From going first in line to meeting the characters, everything was set up so that he could enjoy the magic without any of the stress that usually comes with a trip like this. He even got to make his own star in the village! And the fact that we stayed in our own villa at the village made the whole experience feel so unique and personal.”

For Leon, the food was a big part of why he enjoyed his wish so much. Corranda laughed when sharing that Leon was so excited he could get whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted. And the seafood—he still talks about it! It’s one of those things he’ll never forget.

For Leon’s parents, watching their son experience this joy meant everything to them,

“To see Leon so happy, to know he was doing something he would never have been able to do without Make-A-Wish—it meant everything,” his mother reflected. “Not having to worry about the little things, like where we would stay, how we would pay, or what we needed to pack, made the whole experience that much better. The only things we had to think about were his medications and making sure he was comfortable. [Make-A-Wish] took care of everything else.”

 “It was something he’ll carry with him for the rest of his life. Not just the places he saw, but the fact that he got to feel like a kid again carefree and full of wonder.”

Leon continues to talk about his wish and looking back, his parents feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. “Make-A-Wish didn’t just grant a wish; they gave us something that changed our lives,” Leon’s dad said. “We’re so grateful for everything—this experience will stay with us forever.”