After eight years in a world of hospital visits, tests, chest percussion and nebulizer treatments, medications, and g-tube feedings, Sammy wished for something different. He wished to level-up his play with Mario and Luigi in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The adventure began as Sammy and his family received VIP treatment on his first flight ever. A personal driver took them to the airport where he met the airline captain, sat in the cockpit, and received well wishes from other passengers.

Donning his best Mario attire, Sammy plunged into the immersive world of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi and Bowser. “He loved meeting his favorite characters and seeing the world come to life, going on rides, and collecting souvenir plushies. I think he came back with 36 new plushies!” laughs Amber.

While in California, Sammy also ventured to Legoland, touched a jellyfish at the Aquarium of the Pacific, and took the helm of the RMS Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner. “Sammy is such a smart little boy and so full of life and energy. He loves to make jokes and tell fun facts. He always wants to make people laugh. He loves Goosebumps books and scary stories, and is learning how to make simple meals. He really is an amazing little boy and I love being his mom,” remarks Amber.

“Do you want to hear a joke?” asks Sammy.
Sammy: “Knock, knock.”
You: “Who’s there?”
Sammy: “Who.”
You: “Who who?”
Sammy: “Did you hear an owl, because I did too.”

When a child is battling a critical illness, focus is often on treatment. Sammy’s story reminds us that he is the heart of the story. Wish granting takes a community: a driver to make Sammy feel like a celebrity, an airline captain to let him take the yoke in the cockpit, and all the strangers who wished him well during his stay in California. All play a part in creating the magic of a wish.