At 14 years old, Avant has already endured countless hospital visits and therapy appointments. Now, he is preparing for brain surgery to help manage his nervous system disorder. His medical journey has been challenging for both Avant and his family, but his wish experience gave them something to look forward to and helped them navigate both the treatments he has faced and those still to come. His mom, Joanna, shares, “this wish was incredibly important for creating memories and to prepare for the future.”

When it came time to choose his wish, Avant knew that he wanted a special and magical birthday celebration at Walt Disney World®. A few days before his birthday, Avant and his family traveled to Disney World and stayed at Give Kids The World Village. Joanna says, “It made me feel amazing to be with a group of other families that are dealing with similar situations. For the first time in my entire life, I felt my son was accepted and I felt so much love as a parent.” While there, he enjoyed adding his star to the wall, joining dance parties with other wish families, and, of course, indulging in the all-you-can-eat ice cream.

“[My favorite memory from the wish is] taking pictures with the minions, and also going on my first roller coaster, and having a dance party at Give Kids The World Village, and who can forget about the ice cream,” Avant shared.

Another highlight of the trip was collecting autographs from his favorite characters.

Reflecting on his experience, Avant said, “My wish experience was beyond magical so many memories were created. My wish impacted me in so many ways, I have laughed and smiled. I met my favorite characters, and I also received autographs that I will forever cherish.”

For Joanna, one of the most meaningful moments was watching Avant place his star on the wall at Give Kids The World Village. She shares, “That is such a special moment for the entire family, and we’re so honored to get this opportunity.”

Upon his return home, Avant was eager to tell his classmates about his adventure and share the unforgettable memories he made with his family.

As he looked back on his wish, Avant expressed his gratitude: “Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity and for granting my wish. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and will forever cherish the amazing memories from the trip.”

Because of the wish experience she shared with her son, Joanna is excited to get involved with Make-A-Wish® Minnesota so that she can help create the same special moments for other families facing difficult times.

To her, “[Make-A-Wish] means never giving up when times are hard, one step at a time.”