Chase Makes Magical Disney Memories

“Our youngest child, Chase, has been fighting since birth. Diagnosed with hypotonia, then with Evans syndrome, and now with Common Variable Immune Disorder (CVID), no battle is too big for Chase. He has been through so much and gives so much trust to his parents and doctors that everything seems normal to him. While medication has helped, nothing has been more relieving than laughter and experiences that allow Chase to smile with freedom and without concern for what tomorrow will bring.  For a moment – nothing else matters.  It is in these moments he knows he is safe, and free to be a little boy.

We found out about Chase’s CVID diagnosis on his first day of kindergarten, during a pandemic no less.  It was a lot to take in and hard on Chase. We had known about Make-A-Wish and thought that it might be time to inquire. Not surprising, Chase’s doctors were in full support. Chase was super excited to talk to our coordinator and so thrilled when he found out he could take a trip to Disney World.

Chase felt like the coolest person in the world when the limo picked us up for the airport.  Then when we got off the plane and there was a greeter holding a sign with our name - wow!  He couldn't believe it! He felt like a king before we even got to the village!

The Give Kids the World Village was absolutely magical. It was meant and designed not only for the children in mind, but for the entire family. Chase and Sage had boundless number of goodies, ice-cream, new toys delivered in the room every day, activities with characters that were amazing, and in these moments we could all be kids!

It’s too hard to summarize, but the Florida theme parks were a dream. We had access to it all. The zero hassle they delivered for us, is a gift itself. While Disney is a magical place – we felt even more special because everyone was there for us. Moments at the parks and the fun we had as a family meant the world. Chase and Sage were on top of the world. We were too.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation has a heart of gold. Everyone affiliated with the charity is a hero in our eyes. The people that made this happen from the coordinators, planners, fundraisers, and the donors must be recognized because they are there for one reason - to make the wish of every child and family who needs hope, a moment to feel special, and time to refuel so they can continue to fight, come true. We were not just granted a wish, but through Make-A-Wish, we were granted memories we as a family will cherish forever.”