Disney and Make-A-Wish celebrate 45 years of granting life-changing wishes
Disney and Make-A-Wish have celebrated over 45 years of granting magical experiences to children with critical illnesses. This partnership has made more than 175,000 wishes come true worldwide. Recently, two former wish recipients—now Disney employees—joined a special event to mark World Wish Day alongside Mr. Beast and the charity’s supporters. Lily received her wish at age 10: a trip to The Bahamas aboard the Disney Dream. Now 17, she has been seizure-free for seven years. Her father, Jim, a U.S. Army veteran, also joined the family on the journey thanks to Make-A-Wish.
Today, both Lily and Jim work at Disneyland Resort. She serves as a Guest Talent Assistant with Imagination Campus, while he is part of Security Special Services. They also volunteer for Make-A-Wish, with Lily aiming to become a wish granter herself. The Disney Week of Wishes highlighted the long-running collaboration between the company and the charity. A Disney wish is granted every hour, every day, transforming lives through unforgettable moments. Lily and Jim were among those invited to the Wishes Assemble event, hosted by Disney, Make-A-Wish, and Mr. Beast to honour World Wish Day.
The partnership between Disney and Make-A-Wish continues to create lasting memories for families facing serious illnesses. With over 175,000 wishes fulfilled, the programme remains a source of hope and joy. Former wish recipients like Lily and Jim now contribute to the magic, both as Disney employees and volunteers for the charity.
