I wish to go to the Walt Disney World Resort
Britney
19
nervous system disorder
Britney's Wish Celebrates Her Family's Special Bond
Born prematurely at just six months, Britney weighed little over one pound. Her journey began with an uphill battle, and year after year, a series of health complications arose.
Today, at 19 years old, she is blind, non-verbal and battles a critical nervous system disorder. However, Britney does not face these challenges alone. Through it all, her family has stood by her side, offering unconditional love and unwavering support and care.
“It is tiring and difficult at times, but our family is blessed,” her older sister Audrey shares. “We lean heavily on each other as we care for Britney together. She has her good days where it’s a lot of smiles and giggles, and she has difficult days where if she’s not up for something then it’s not happening. Through it all, we believe she is God’s gift to us.”
Britney’s family was introduced to Make-A-Wish by a member of their church congregation whose daughter had previously experienced the life-changing power of a wish. Even though Britney is non-verbal, she communicates her joy through smiles and her family knew that a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort would keep her smiling from ear-to-ear.
During her visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth, Britney and her family stayed at Give Kids the World Village, a whimsical nonprofit resort that many families call home during their wishes to visit the Florida theme parks. There they found themselves humbled to be surrounded by so many other families facing similar struggles. “Sometimes in our own little bubble we feel alone and like the weight of the world is on our shoulders,” Audrey says. “But seeing all these families, and all these wonderful children getting their wish filled my heart so much. The staff at Give Kids the World was phenomenal. Their joy was tangible. The service was unbelievably loving and kind. We felt like we were truly seen, heard and loved.”
Britney and her family soaked up every little bit of fun they could during their time at the Disney parks. They met Princesses, enjoyed the accessible rides, listened to the sounds of the evening fireworks and splashed around in the pool. “You can tell from the pictures that she was so happy because it was all smiles,” Audrey reflects. “She especially loves water, so having access to the pools and different water games at the theme parks made her whole day, every day!”
Their time spent in Disney was more than just a temporary escape from the daily struggles that come with Britney’s diagnosis. It allowed her entire family to enjoy quality time together, something that is not often possible due to the accommodations Britney requires to be safe, comfortable and happy. “This wish was important to our family because we wanted Britney to be the rockstar,” Audrey explains. “Places don’t usually have the accommodations that Britney needs so if we ever go out as a family, someone has to stay behind with her. We don’t get to do much all together. We believe it brought a deep healing for our family to be able to go out all together and know that Britney was the one being celebrated.”
Britney’s wish experience brought her family closer together, created precious memories and a deep sense of unity. “Words cannot describe how thankful we are to have had this wish granted,” Audrey remarks. “We believe she truly felt loved. It brought us closer together as a family and we pray that many other families can experience their wish being granted too.”
We believe it brought a deep healing for our family to be able to go out all together and know that Britney was the one being celebrated.
Audrey
Britney's sister