Sophia is a fun-loving 12-year-old girl from Chicago's south suburbs who loves all things Disney. When she was younger, Sophia was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder. After her nurse practitioner referred her family to Make-A-Wish Illinois, Sophia decided that she'd like to travel to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii for her wish.

Last fall, Sophia's wish to come true. She and her parents headed out to sunny Hawaii and were met at the Honolulu airport with a traditional lei greeting. At the resort, Sophia woke up each day in paradise. They snorkeled in Aulani's Rainbow Reef, and even attended a nearby luau. Sophia got to swim in the pool and ocean daily, which her parents cite as one of her favorite parts of the trip. Another highlight was getting to spend time with her two favorite Disney characters, Stitch and Moana.

Sophia and her family were grateful for their trip to Hawaii as it gave them the chance to escape some of the day-to-day realities of Sophia’s health challenges. "She didn’t even think about anything other than being in the moment and enjoying her time there," says Antonia, Sophia's mom.

Sophia shared that her wish experience inspired her to want to give back to other kids like her. She plans on participating in Walk for Wishes next year to help support future wish families.