I wish to go to Walt Disney World^® Resort

12-year-old Nolan is living with cerebral palsy, that mainly affects the left side of his body. When he was first diagnosed, his family was told that surgery for his legs was an option, but it would be a waiting game. A few years later, Nolan underwent surgery on his legs where rods were inserted into both femurs, and a tendon lengthening procedure was performed on his left foot. The recovery ended up being three months longer than it was supposed to after Nolan fell during his stay at the rehabilitation centre and broke his arm. It was during this time that Nolan met someone who would end up becoming his best friend. For two years after the surgery, he also underwent additional occupational and physiotherapy.  

Nolan was first introduced to Make-A-Wish seven years ago. He was all set to go to Walt Disney World when the pandemic hit, and he had to delay his wish. It worked out for the best because he would now be able to go on his trip at the same time as his new friend Chase. Chase is an 11-year-old boy living with a spinal tumour who Nolan met and instantly bonded with during his stay at the rehabilitation centre. They understood each other on a level like no other. The boys were ecstatic to get to experience their wish trips together. Watch the story of Nolan and Chase’s friendship here. 

Nolan was so excited to go on all the rides and experience the warm, sunny weather Florida has to offer. Throughout the whole trip, the family was treated like royalty. They got to skip all the lines, bond with like-minded families, and enjoy celebrations all week long. “Nolan is a kind and genuine soul, and he met with some amazing people who him like everyone else. He could just be a kid!” Heidi, Nolan’s mom shared. A highlight for the family was watching the magical firework show at Magic Kingdom. After being separated during Nolan’s recovery, the trip was a chance for Nolan and his family to make life-long memories, with friends who have become family. “I don’t know how to put into words what the trip meant to our family,” Heidi shared. “[After] two years of surgery, rehab, recovery, and financial struggles, our Make-A-Wish trip to Disney took away all of our suffering for a week, and we could just be a family.” There were no appointments to rush to and no worries for the family, only fun times together.