VIP Experiences Elevate Happiness to a Whole New Level
ANAHEIM, Calif. (October 2023): Joshua’s wish reveal could have easily been mistaken for his wish. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department joined forces for a special top secret mission. It was an epic operation full of elevated surprises, literally. Joshua had no idea that his ride in the LASD Motorsports Team’s racing Camaro was about to get even more exciting. That was until the driver, his family friend and detective arrived at a helipad.
When they approached the helicopter, the doors opened, and his mom was holding a Kids Wish Network sign. His grandparents and additional Sheriff’s Department staff were also there to celebrate as the detective revealed that Kids Wish Network was making Joshua’s dream come true, sending him on a getaway to Disneyland and Universal! After the grand reveal, his family took off in the helicopter for a thrilling bird’s eye view of extraordinary sights like Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood sign. Another highlight was cruising L.A. in a bomb squad vehicle escorted by police. The celebration wrapped up with a cake displaying the sweetest message in frosting, “Your Wish is Coming True!” kindly donated by Walmart. It was an amazing day, and he still had his wish to look forward to!
Joshua’s VIP experiences continued on his wish trip. “Disney was just above and beyond, we’ve never been catered to like this before,” gushed his mom Michelle. A character handler who Joshua just met spent nearly 5 hours walking him from character to character, even introducing him to his favorite, Star Lord from Guardians of the Galaxy, along with just about every superhero! Another cast member also put a smile on his face, gifting him an exclusive Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge badge that is only available to staff. One of his biggest surprises was being invited to Disney’s Happiest Haunts Tour that was already sold out.
Universal was also full of fun and adventures. Joshua loved the rides, especially Revenge of the Mummy which he rode multiple times without having to get back in line. Other highlights were the Mario Kart and Harry Potter attractions, meeting the Minions, Gru and Scoob crew, and indulging in a corn dog. Universal provided passes for his family’s visit.
Joshua thoroughly enjoyed his stay at Hotel Lulu, having his own queen-size bed and a big flat screen TV. The hotel generously provided his family’s accommodations and breakfast. Ruby’s diner on Balboa Pier gave Joshua so much personalized attention and presents, gifting him a Nerf toy and Hot Wheels cars. Johnny Rockets also made his dining experience memorable. These restaurants graciously provided meals for his family. They were also invited to dine at Casa de Pancho and BJ’s Restaurant.
Merlin’s Magic Wand is additionally providing passes for Joshua and his family to go to LEGOLAND. Joshua loves LEGOs, and is so excited for their future visit.
“Families like ours are so blessed by your generosity,” said Joshua’s mom to Kids Wish Network. “My mama heart is so happy, I don’t know how I can ever thank you!”
Joshua has struggled with health challenges since he was only a few months old, and his list of ailments continues to escalate. His seizures turned into a diagnosis of epilepsy, and he also suffers with pain syndrome. Joshua has undergone a double hernia surgery, and an operation for biopsy removals. Major GI issues have also been a struggle. He’s endured nearly 15 colonoscopies, and several rounds of injectable treatments. He also copes with additional disorders, and was recently diagnosed with a rare condition with very limited treatment availability. Joshua loves helping other sick children by raising funds to buy toys that he delivers to the hospital where he spent so much time being treated. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department is very familiar with Joshua finding joy in helping others, they’ve participated in one of his toy drives, also collecting toys for him to further his meaningful mission.
Many Thanks
Kids Wish Network could not have provided this wish to Joshua without the help of Hotel Lulu, Merlin’s Magic Wand, Casa de Pancho, BJ’s Restaurant, Ruby’s Diner, Johnny Rockets, Los Angeles Sheriff Department, LASD Motorsports, Walmart Supercenter #3522, and the many supporters who believe in making wishes come true for kids who need hope. Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about our different programs.
Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.
Every kid’s wish is worth the investment because every wish changes a life.
If you would like to sponsor a child’s wish, or if you know a child who is suffering from a life-threatening illness and may be in need of Kids Wish Network’s wish-granting services, please call 727-789-0008.