Iris is nine years old from sunny North Florida. Her favorite movie and book is Frozen. Iris was battling a brain tumor and When Make-A-Wish of Central and Northern Florida heard Iris’s story, they stepped in to grant her a wish!

Iris and her family were visited by two Make-A-Wish volunteers to learn about all of her favorite things and what she would like to have for her wish. The volunteers learned that Iris loves the movie Frozen. Iris’s wish to see snow in Vermont was inspired by her love for Frozen. Make-A-Wish started working right away to make her wish a reality.

When the day of Iris’s wish arrived, she and her family traveled on a plane to Vermont! Her parents, brother and sister went to Vermont in February and stayed at a kid friendly resort. She was so excited to see snow for the first time!

Iris had so much fun playing in the show with her family and even got to have private beginner ski lessons! They had lots of fun building snowmen and making snow angels. When she wasn’t playing with snow, Iris had fun visiting the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Iris and her family enjoyed a relaxing week together making memories together. 99% of parents reported that the wish experience gave their children increased feelings of happiness.

Iris will continue to battle her brain tumor with renewed strength derived from the hope and joy her wish experience brought her and her family. A wish is more than just a nice thing. A wish brings joy to critically ill children that gives them an edge in conquering their illnesses. You can help transform the lives of children like Iris. Whether you’re able to contribute your financial support or you want to volunteer as a wish granter, there are plenty of ways you can give back to your local community. Contact Make-A-Wish Central and North Florida to learn more or visit cnfl.wish.org.