Wish Granting Returning to Disneyland Resort
Originally published at Disney Parks News
Happy World Wish Day!
Since the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish was granted on this day 42 years ago, Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to make more than 145,000 wishes come true. Including the very first official wish, which took place at Disneyland Resort. And while these past few years have been challenging for everyone – wish granters included – we are so excited to announce this World Wish Day that wish-granting is on its way back at Disneyland Resort.
That’s right! Very soon, you will see the iconic blue Make-A-Wish shirts again. At Disneyland Resort, as wish kids to return to our park. A wish unlocks a world of possibilities. This is why we’re so honored that historically. Half of all wishes Make-A-Wish has granted in the United States are Disney-related wishes.
Earlier today, we welcomed three wish kids to join us at the first-ever Disney Junior Fun Fest. A one-day event celebrating the entertaining and music-filled stories of the #1 preschool television network’s hit series at Disney California Adventure park. Wish kids Kemuel, Noah and Levi were invited. To be the guests of honor in the parade of beloved Disney Junior characters.
“We have heard time and time again from wish families that their wish trips to Disneyland Resort made them feel whole again. Helping to heal the trauma of dealing with a critical illness,” said Richard K. Davis, president, and CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “It fills me with joy to know that the park is able to reclaim its place as a source of hope, joy, and healing for wish families.”
We all know the incredible power of wishes for kids fighting critical illnesses. Just like 6-year-old María’s wish to be a princess. Which included a virtual royal visit, all in Spanish, from Princess Belle. These transformational wishes are more than just special moments in time. They can be life-changing. Their impact can stay with a wish kid
– and the millions of people who make them come true – for a lifetime.
This exciting milestone continues the recent, powerful momentum of returning offerings across Disney parks and resorts. During the past two years, we’ve taken a very gradual, intentional approach to health and safety protocols. Recent trends and guidance have provided opportunities. For us to bring back some of our most beloved magic, like wish granting. While not all wishes can be granted immediately, we anticipate gradually ramping up our wish-granting efforts over the course of the coming months.
So you see — wishes really do come true! Earlier today, Walt Disney World Resort made magic for two wish alumni. Now, cast members – and announced that the Walt Disney World Resort specialty license plate benefiting Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida recently soared above half a million dollars in total contributions. To help make future wishes come true! Stay tuned for even more magical Make-A-Wish stories on the Disney Parks Blog.
