A heartwarming surprise unfolded for 7-year-old Ryan Spizzirri from Bridgeport, Chicago, when she received a special invitation from Make-A-Wish to attend Disney’s Once Upon A Wish Party at Walt Disney World. This magical event promised an unforgettable experience, bringing her up close with beloved characters, including Rapunzel, whom Ryan eagerly anticipated meeting.
Ryan’s journey to this enchanting celebration was marked by her battle with a congenital condition that has posed significant health challenges, putting her at risk of severe infection. Born prematurely with duodenal atresia, Ryan lost 90% of her small intestine, leaving her dependent on overnight IV feeding and a permanent IV. Despite these hardships, her resilience and spirit shone through, earning her a well-deserved moment of joy and respite.
Her mother, Leanne Scanlon, shared the emotional weight of Ryan’s struggles and expressed the significance of this opportunity for her daughter. It was Ryan’s doctor who, recognizing her strength and perseverance, nominated her for the life-changing experience offered by Make-A-Wish. Surrounded by friends and family, Ryan’s wish was celebrated in style at the Lincoln Hotel, where the girls were treated to a princess-like experience by Pretty in Pink Mobile Spa, indulging in facials and bedazzled flip-flops.
Ryan’s father, Timothy Spizzirri, reflected on the profound impact of witnessing his daughter’s joy amidst adversity, emphasizing the transformative power of such experiences for children facing health challenges. Jessica Miller, Senior Communications Manager for Make-A-Wish Illinois, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how these moments of magic provide children like Ryan with strength and resilience in the face of difficult treatments and uncertainties.
Approximately 50 Wish children, including Ryan, had their dreams fulfilled during this month, each experience carrying the essence of Disney magic that transcends mere entertainment. For over 40 years, Make-A-Wish has been a beacon of hope and joy for children battling illnesses, offering them a reprieve from their struggles and infusing their lives with positivity and light.
As Ryan prepares to embark on her Once Upon A Wish adventure at Walt Disney World, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of granting wishes to children in need. Through the generosity and compassion of organizations like Make-A-Wish, these children find moments of respite and happiness, empowering them to face their challenges with newfound strength and courage.
