I wish to go to the Walt Disney World® Resort

Jen, wish granted 1995

cancer

Wish alum Jen

From Magic to Medicine

2020 marked 25 years since Jen Pratt had her wish granted to go to the Walt Disney World® Resort.
Wish alum Jen with sister, Aladdin and Jasmine

From the special flourishes by cast members to the spectacular rides, Jen said her wish was a pivotal turning point in her life. It gave her the strength to persevere through her cancer and inspired her to pursue a career in medicine.

“Disney is so incredibly magical. It gave my family a chance to step away from the medical environment and just enjoy one another with no worries,” Jen said. “It’s more than just a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, it’s the experience that Make-A-Wish provides in conjunction with Disney. I am now a lifelong Make-A-Wish and Disney fan.”

Wish alum Jen with character
Wish alum Jen on the phone
To be able to share my experience with other kids going through the same thing – to be that bright light – is really powerful.
Dr. Jen Pratt
wish alum and medical professional
Wish alum Jen

Today, Jen, or Dr. Pratt to her pediatric patients, is caring for children in the very same hospital where she was treated. Her story has come full circle, back to where her life was transformed. Jen is now able to help improve the lives of other children battling critical illnesses with the gift of a wish referral and personally share in the transformation that comes with her patients’ wish experiences.

“Surviving childhood cancer is a uniquely profound experience. We often see the world in a slightly different light and have a unique ability to empathize with others facing challenging, life-altering situations,” Jen said. “To be able to share my experience with other kids going through the same thing – to be that bright light – is really powerful.”

Since 1980, Disney and Make-A-Wish have granted wishes for more than 150,000 children around the world – wishes just like Jen’s. 

Wish alum Jen with Jasmin and Aladdin Characters
Wish alum Jen with sister