PHOTOS, VIDEO: Disney Helps Make-A-Wish Grant Their 500,000th Wish
Disney and the Make-A-Wish Foundation granted their first wish together 40 years ago at Disneyland Resort. Since then they have made more than 140,000 wishes come true.
While these unprecedented times have caused a temporary suspension of in-person wish experiences, they have also created opportunities to grant wishes in a whole new way. For the Foundations 500,000th wish Disney and Make-A-Wish helped a very special 16-year-old Karina, who generously wished “to give kids a day to forget they’re sick.” Karina has fond memories of her care-free days at summer camp where her problems and stresses took a backseat to fun and laughter.
Inspired by this experience, Make-A-Wish collaborated with her to create a virtual camp called “Kamp Karina” with activities designed to put a smile on the faces of children in need from the comfort of their own homes. The virtual day-long “camp” was streamed on YouTube and included a magic show, a science class, story time, and some special Disney surprises!
The experience is really incredible when you think about it, every part of The Walt Disney Company helps Make-A-Wish grant life-changing wishes and this wish was no different. The entire company was involved in granting Karina’s wish!
- Walt Disney Animation Studios hosted a “Frozen”-inspired drawing class featuring a professional animator and Josh Gad, the lovable voice of Olaf.
- ESPN worked with the NBA to put 32 wish kids, including Karina, in the virtual stands for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
- Disney Parks, Experiences and Products provided Disney-themed trivia as part of Disney Family Game Night and a sweet fireworks show to cap off the Kamp Karina program.
It was truly a magical day for everyone involved! Check out this video to see how Disney was able to play a part in this inspiring day of laughter and fun.
From Disney Parks Blog:
Granting wishes creates magical memories for children and their families, and Disney is working closely with Make-A-Wish to find innovative ways to stay engaged with children whose wishes have been deferred due to the pandemic.
Be sure to stay tuned for a sneak-peek tonight of an exciting Make-A-Wish announcement happening tomorrow, and continue to follow us on Disney Parks Blog for more incredible stories of hope and joy as we celebrate Make-A-Wish’s 40th anniversary.
