After Years Of Struggle and Heartbreak, One Disney Fans Wish Finally Came True
While the first trip to a Disney Park is always magical, for Make-A-Wish kid Rei Sayama, her first visit to Tokyo Disney Resort meant so much more.
When Rei was eight years old, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The rare form of cancer affects blood and bone marrow. Because her condition was so serious, she needed a constant supply of oxygen.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Through treatments, Rei watched Disney cartoons to entertain herself. Her favorites were “Lilo and Stitch”, “The Little Mermaid”, “Phineas and Ferb”, and “Kim Possible”.
When Rei was recommended a wish from Make-A-Wish Japan, she know exactly what it would be- a family trip to Tokyo Disney Resort.
Photo: Disney
A Major Setback
Unfortunately, her trip was set to be before Rei received a second bone marrow transplant, a high-risk operation.
Due to complications, her lungs deteriorated and she needed a constant supply of oxygen for the next two years. Her physical strength also weakened to the point where she would not walk by herself.
Photo; Disney Parks Blog
Despite these setbacks, Rei encouraged herself by reminding herself that “Disney is waiting for me!”.
As the years went by, and her birthday and Christmas were spent in a hospital room, Make-A-Wish Japan sent presents to Rei and her family reminding her that Disney was still waiting.
Well, I am happy to report that following a miraculous lung transplant, Rei no longer needs oxygen supplies or her wheelchair. While the road to rehabilitation was long and hard, the goal she set with her physical therapist was to visit Tokyo Disney Resort and walk around all day.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Wishes Come True
Now, just in time for Tokyo Disney Resort’s 40th Anniversary, Rei’s wish finally came true. She was able to visit the resort with her older sister and father, for a truly magical day.
Alongside Managing Director of Walt Disney Attractions Japan and Walt Disney Imagineering Japan George Gross, Rei, and her family were greeted by Mickey and Minnie Mouse!
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
“It was my great pleasure to welcome Rei-san today,” George shared. “I would like to express my gratitude and admiration to Rei-san, thanks to her determination to visit Tokyo Disney Resort, she made her wish come true.”
Finally, after years of struggle and trials, Rei’s wish came true.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
If you want to learn more about Disney’s longstanding relationship with Make-A-Wish, visit Wish.org/Disney
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