Elena's wish to go to Disney's Aulani

Make-A-Wish gave us a dream to look forward to during our darkest days. Make-A-Wish reunited us as a family, after years of strain and separation due to treatment. Make-A-Wish aided in the healing of our family.

My daughter Elena was abruptly diagnosed with high risk B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 2 years old. We were thrust into the world of childhood cancer with our other four children in tow, ranging in age from just 9 days to 9 years old. Elena was in treatment for 855 days. During those two and half years, she fought for her life and overcame extreme complications. Every family member sacrificed in her best interest. We were separated during hospitalizations and had to isolate often.

Make-A-Wish gave us a positive outlook for future fun times together. Elena loves princesses, swimming, mermaids, Disney, the ocean and her family. Her wish came true with a wish granted to Disney’s Aulani in Hawaii!

Our family built the most wonderful memories together at Aulani. It was such a joyous adventure we were all able to anticipate together. Every detail of the wish felt restorative. We are so thankful to Make-A-Wish for the trip and appreciative of how it strengthened our family bond.