A Disney dream comes true for youngster from Wath
A YOUNGSTER from Wath has seen her dream come true after being selected for a 10-day trip to Walt Disney World in Florida.
Stevie Taylor, who suffers from the rare and incurable Batten disease, travelled with her 10-year-old sister Jasmine, and her parents, Karen and Paul, to the resort, thanks to children’s charity When You Wish Upon a Star’s Disney Wishes programme aided by Raffle House.
Stevie also met celebrity ambassadors Ellie Leach and Brooke Vincent, both stars of Coronation Street.
Stevie and her family were guests on a special all-inclusive 10-day trip to relaunch When You Wish Upon a Star’s Disney Wishes programme in November.
The trip was funded by a donation from prize draw company Raffle House, which has an ongoing partnership with the children’s charity.
Their wish included three VIP days at Walt Disney World Resort, with priority ride access using the Wish Pass, character meet-and-greets with Disney princesses, and accessible viewing areas for parades and fireworks.
They also enjoyed two days at Universal Orlando Resort, where the family was able to bypass long queues and enjoy attractions at a pace that suited Stevie’s needs.
The Taylors stayed at Give Kids The World Village, a resort designed for children with critical illnesses that offers full support for their needs and even has its own accessible rides and playgrounds.
Dad Paul said: “Stevie absolutely loved the themed areas, accessible rides and the famous ice-cream parlour within the village.
“For us, the whole experience was amazing as it allowed Stevie to enjoy the magic of Disney in an environment designed around her needs.
“The trip provided a rare opportunity to step away from normal life, with all the routines of medical appointments, and focus on creating joyful memories as a family.”
Mum Karen said that meeting actresses and When You Wish Upon a Star ambassadors Ellie Leach and Brooke Vincent was a notable highlight.
She said: “Brooke and Ellie didn't just show up for the trip, they truly invested their time and hearts in getting to know us all.
“Spending time together in Florida, whether it was shopping, chatting or just laughing as a group, created memories we’ll treasure forever.
“What’s meant the most is that Ellie has stayed in touch with us since we returned home.
“That continued connection has made the whole experience even more meaningful.
“It wasn’t just a trip, it was the beginning of something truly special for our family, and we will always be grateful.
“We were also really touched by the personalised experiences organised for Stevie with Disney cast members.
“She was so happy to be given her own meet-and-greets with her favourite characters.”