Disney and Make-A-Wish Celebrate Another Magical Milestone
If you have ever driven through Central Florida, you have inevitably seen Walt Disney World specialty license plates.
While these vanity plates are a great way to show your Disney fandom and add a little magic to your everyday life, they also raise money for a great cause.
Today, The Walt Disney Company revealed that proceeds from plate sales (100% of which go directly to Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida) have now raised more than $3 million for children facing critical illness and their families.
Photo: Disney
“My heart lights up every time I drive because I see so many Disney license plates and know the impact. $3 million can bring so much happiness and hope to families in need,” Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida President & CEO Anne Cuba said. “In fact, it’s already helped us send more than 300 Florida families on unforgettable wish trips.”
To celebrate the occasion, Disney shared testimonials from children and their families who have had their wishes granted by Disney.
Vyla’s Trip to Wlat Disney World
First, there is Vyla, who wished to visit Magic Kingdom with her family.
Photo: Disney
“During Vyla’s treatment, she just wanted to know when she could visit Cinderella Castle again. Disney has always represented magical moments for our family and when her wish was granted, it was more than we could have dreamt of. I couldn’t hold back the tears walking into the park because it was a moment we didn’t know we would see,” Vyla’s mom Kirsten said. “We are so grateful for Make-A-Wish, Disney and all of the people who made these moments possible for our family.”
Samai’s Wish to Travel the World
Next, I would like to introduce Samai, who wished for a camper to travel the world in.
Photo: Disney
“During her treatment, Samai said she wanted a camper so we could travel to places with trees, animals and beautiful sunsets. It was an amazing moment when her wish was granted. We’ve been able to create unforgettable memories on trips with our family ever since, and I see the happiness that this has brought her and our whole family,” Samai’s father, Anthony, said. “It’s really amazing to know that Disney and the community are helping grant wishes for kids like Samai.”
Ashyln’s New Bedroom
Finally, there is Ashyln, who wishes for a new magical bedroom.
Photo: Disney
“Turning Ashlyn’s bedroom into a safe, sensory room has been on our wish list for years. It was an overwhelming relief for us as parents when her wish was granted. And it’s such an exciting, lasting gift for Ashlyn,” her mother, Tiffany, said. “So many wish families are under a lot of pressure and a helping hand truly means the world. We are so grateful to Disney, Make-A-Wish and to the many volunteers, supporters and donations that made Ashlyn’s wish a reality.”
The Disney Difference
The stories of Vyla, Samai, and Ashlyn are just a glimpse into the thousands of lives that Disney has impacted through its partnership with Make-A-Wish.
Photo: Disney
To support the cause, Florida drivers can purchase Walt Disney World specialty license plates at any Florida DMV or local County Tax Collector’s Office. To learn more, visit Disney Connect.
