Jonathan’s Dream Birthday Adventure
For 8-year-old Jonathan, his Dream was about more than visiting his favorite theme parks. It was an opportunity to celebrate his birthday, spend time with extended family, and make up for special moments he had missed because of cancer.
Jonathan and his family traveled to Florida for a magical adventure that included Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Give Kids The World Village. With family gathered to celebrate him, Jonathan had the chance to enjoy each day doing the things he loved most.
The family explored Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, and both Universal theme parks. Jonathan loved every part of the experience. Jonathan’s favorite attractions were the Toy Story shooting game and TRON. He also loved meeting Transformers characters Bumblebee and Optimus Prime.
There was plenty of ice cream throughout the entire trip! Jonathan asked for it first thing in the morning and enjoyed it almost every day. He also loved choosing his waffle toppings at Give Kids The World Village.
Some of the most meaningful moments happened when the family came together to celebrate Jonathan. Each day, they asked him what he wanted to do, making the trip all about him and letting him choose his own adventures.
One of the family’s favorite memories was gathering everyone inside the villa to sing Happy Birthday” to Jonathan in what he called “his own little apartment.” Mom said, “Seeing the joy on his face was just the best.”
Give Kids The World Village added another special layer to the Dream. Between enjoying the villa, relaxing by the pool every day, and receiving gifts, the family had a place to unwind and enjoy time together between park adventures.
Reflecting on the experience, Jonathan’s mom shared how much it meant to know that people cared about children who had missed out on so many experiences because of illness. “Someone was able to think about children who missed out…let’s send them to do what they’ve missed. We love you and you are seen. Give Kids the World, that is an understatement,” their family left with so much more. “My baby is here and he made it. We are so grateful.”
For Jonathan and his family, the trip was a chance to celebrate his birthday, create joyful memories, and simply enjoy being together. After everything their family had been through, seeing Jonathan happy and making memories with the people he loves meant so much.
Toby’s Dream is grateful for Chartway Promise Foundation as our funding partner in helping us make this dream come true.
