Azaria's Make A Wish Trip, October 2009

[ahkeela]

Azaria's Make A Wish Trip-Take II
(I had started a pre-trip report before, Azaria's trip was originally scheduled for May 2009 but was rescheduled to October. I tried to update the old trip report but wasn't able to update it for some reason. So here is take two.)

Azaria is 6 years old, and her wish is to be a princess at DisneyWorld! She was granted a wish from the Make A Wish organization last summer but scheduling the trip has been a bit difficult. The trip is now scheduled for October 20-28th. Azaria's birthday is October 26th, so we are very confident that we will make the trip this time!

A little about Azaria and our family: Azaria was born with Aicardi Syndrome, an extremely rare neurological disorder that is only found in females, and includes absence of the center part of her brain, retinal lesions causing blindness, daily seizures, and developmental delays (among other things). Azaria has seizures every day, at the most she had over 100 seizures a day when she was 9 months old. Now, she only has 3 or 4 mild seizures a day, and about once a month, she has a very big seizure that requires emergency medical intervention. When she was born, the doctors said "take her home and enjoy her while you can", life expectancy is 5-7 years. We were also told that she would never walk, or talk, or sit unassisted.

Given all this, Azaria has done tremendously well and has been such a joy in our lives. She is quite aware of her surroundings, communicates her likes and dislikes, she is legally blind but you would never know it and she is so brave through her daily seizures and struggles. One thing that should be on the "list" of Aicardi Syndrome is just how angelic these girls are. Azaria is so sweet and is always so happy and content. She even smiles right after some of her hardest seizures, as if to say "don't worry Mom and Dad, everything is ok."

The rest of the family includes, my husband TJ, our oldest son Christopher (21) who lives near San Francisco, and our youngest son Aidan (5), and me.

We are all really looking forward to this Make A Wish trip for Azaria and want to make the most of it for her, she so deserves it!

Thanks for reading, I look forward to the trip planning part of this and am open to any advice and suggestions!

Debi

 

[Eeyores Butterfly]

First one! Woo Hoo!

I just read your post on the Wish Trippers thread. I'm sorry for all you have gone through lately. Azaria sounds like a realy princess. How exciting to go on her birthday! Can't wait to hear more.

Who is her favorite character?

 

[maroo]

Woo Hoo!!!

I found your old link...because I had subscribed for all of your updates.

Here it is...if you want to refer to it or get any pics from it, etc.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2150948

I am in over here, too!!

 

[maroo]

Are you guys extending?

I can't keep everyone straight...but I was thinking you guys were going to extend a day before and a day after your GKTW stay...maybe this time, if possible, it would be easier to extend after your GKTW stay so you don't have to worry about rescheduling orientation or losing that first day to logistics and have no park tickets. Just a random thought from Maroo!

 

[ahkeela]

First one! Woo Hoo!

Who is her favorite character?

Hi!
Azaria's favorite character is Snow White. The back story on that is when Azaria was about a year old, we took her to Disneyland. Azaria was pretty medicated during that time on heavy doses of anti convulsants but my husband and I really wanted to take her to Disneyland because of all she was going through. At California Adventure, we waited in a long line to see the Disney Princesses, I believe Belle, Snow White and Mulan where there. We took pictures with Belle, I was holding Azaria, and when we got to Snow White, she kneeled down, spread her dress out and sat on the floor. She then asked if she could hold Azaria! I was floored! I didn't think the characters where allowed to do that (don't know if they are or not, just didn't think that was something they would be allowed to do because of liability stuff). I was very moved that she would even offer. As I handed her Azaria I began explaining how she had poor neck control, and low muscle tone, she just smiled and said hello to Azaria. At that point it was like Azaria came out of a haze, looked at Snow White and smiled. Of course I cried and even my husband got choked up and teary eyed. Since then, it has been all about Snow White. I have to go and look for the picture, it's on my husbands computer but when I find it I will post it here. Thanks for asking, I love telling and remembering that story.

 

[ahkeela]

Deleted text, I accidentally posted twice, oops!

 

[Believing is Seeing.]

Can't wait to follow your planning, I know your princess will have a magical time at WDW, especially for her birthday. How wonderful!!

 

[MomTo4+more]

What a sweet story about her meeting with Snow White. I hope Azaria's birthday at Disney is just as magical. Isn't it fun to plan? I love the escape that planning gives me. We don't have dates for my son's trip yet, but it will be sometime this fall. Azaria sounds like a joy.

 

[Eeyores Butterfly]

Technically characters aren't allowed to hold kids, but we get away with it by kneeling down. That is considered acceptable, particularly if the child is seated on the character's knee or on the floor. Not encouraged, but doable.

That sounds like such a neat experience, any way to share the pic on here?

Is your oldest son going to get to go with you? I don't know what the MAW rules are in yoru area. I can't wait to hear more about your plans! You'll have to do a princess dinner for sure.

 

[xanphylus]

Oh, I can't wait to read more!!!! Your daughter sounds so sweet! Snow White is one of my favorite characters too! That's just even better!
The Snow White story made me cry! Seriously.... that was very moving that she smiled at her!

 

[Matt1026]

Oh my! Your story about Snow White touched my heart. What a precious moment!!!.: Can not wait to hear more of the magic yet to come.

 

[ahkeela]

The excitement is building!!! We just had Azaria's 7th Birthday/Make A Wish Send Off Party this weekend. It went well, she loved her cake and loved seeing everyone who came to her party. We asked that instead of gifts, that donations be made to Make A Wish. We received many cards with donations to MAW, and we are excited we will be able to give back a little!

So we leave in just 4 days! I have started a very loose itinerary. I am trying not to panic about not having any plans or schedules, I will work on it more this week. But I have so much to pack and do before we go!! I just want this to be perfect for Azaria! She deserves so much for all she has been through. And sadly, when we get back she will have to go through even more, she will be admitted to ICU for surgery. But I don't want to think about that now, just want to make this trip the best ever for her! Nothing but smiles, giggles and joy!!

Any suggestions, tips and ideas are welcome!! I still need to book a hotel since we are extending our trip by a couple of days. We'd like to stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge, but I need to check on prices, etc. If not there I am also looking at the Port Orleans.

I'll post the schedule I have so far, it still needs some work but it's coming along.

Here's a couple of photos:
Birthday Cake:

At Pumpkin Patch:

Party picture:

Thanks, Debi

 

[pipersmom]

So glad you guys are getting to go on your trip! I'm sure whether or not you get things as planned out as you'd like to you'll have a wonderful time, so try not to stress out too much about it, just relax and enjoy the ride And I'm with the contingency that wants to see the picture of Azaria with Snow White, Azaria is such a cutie!

 

[ahkeela]

Whoo Hoo! So excited and anxiously sitting here with the kids, Azaria's Wish Coordinator is coming over at 10:30am to drop off our "stuff". Can't wait to see her and what she has in store for the kids! I'm also very excited to give her a check from the donations we collected for Make A Wish at Azaria's Birthday Party !
She should be here in a few minutes...will post some pictures of the kids with her later! In the meantime I want to share the invitation I made for Azaria's party...

(editing to remove the last invitation, it has a lot of personal info on it-address, phone, etc.)

 

[ahkeela]

Thank you maroo for your help! Sorry it was so last minute...thank you so much for your time!!

So here it is, I would appreciate any input or suggestions!

Friday October 23rd
10:30 am Leave Home to Fresno Airport, connect in Dallas, arrive Orlando around 11pm
12 am Arrive at Give Kids the World, eat, and go to bed!

Saturday October 24th
8:00 (5am our time) Wake Up, get ready to go to orientation
9:00 orientation/kids get breakfast
10:00 after orientation, back to room and get everyone ready for day
Eat lunch at GKTW
1-4pm: nap, rest or explore GKTW (do any shopping if necessary)
Dinner at GKTW
7:45-8:30 GKTW-Mayors Birthday Party

Sunday, October 25th
Wake up, get kids ready
8am: Breakfast @ GKTW
Universal (9-5pm or IOA 9-7pm)
1pm-4pm Steelers vs.Vikings (watch game at Universal City Walk-NBA City reservations done-Brianna)
GKTW: Candy Land game

Monday October 26th Azaria's Birthday!
up early
Breakfast @ GKTW
(Disney Characters @ GKTW 8am-9am)
Magic Kingdom (9-9pm) (extra magic hours 9pm-12am)
(Azaria gets “free entry” for her birthday=gift card)
eat lunch @ Cinderella's Royal Table or ? (no reservation-need backup)
Bibbibidi Bobbidi Boutique @ Cinderella Castle for Azaria 12:30 (reservation done)
3:00 Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade
eat dinner @ ?
8:00 SpectroMagic Parade
9:00 Wishes Nighttime Spectacular
(Faerie's M&G, Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Stitches Great Escape, Mickeys PhilharMagic, Princess Tiana M&G and Showboat Jubilee, Pirate Tutorial)
LATE Night!

Tuesday October 27th
Up early
Breakfast @ GKTW
Nickelodeon Character Photos (8:30-9:15)
Universal Studios/Island of Adventure Day #2 (9-6)
(Rides: Jimmy Neutrons Blast,The Simpsons Ride, Spiderman, Hulk)
or Kennedy Space Center Rocket Launch today
Back to GKTW put on costumes
Eat Dinner @ GKTW
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween (7pm-12am)

Wednesday October 28th
Up early, eat breakfast at GKTW
Seaworld (9-7pm)
Dine with Shamu (12:30) Believe (3:30 or 6pm)

Thursday, October 29th
check out day :
Eat breakfast and/or lunch @ GKTW
Disney Characters @ GKTW
Move to Animal Kingdom Resort
Hang out at hotel, Downtown Disney, or rest
Back to GKTW for Christmas Night (6:30-8:30pm)

Friday, October 30th
up, get ready
Eat breakfast at ?
Animal Kingdom (9-5pm/5pm-8pm extra magic hours)

Saturday October 31st
Hollywood Studios (9-7:30pm/extra magic hours 8am-9am)
(HS: toy story mania, rock n roller coaster, lights motor action!, Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, Star Wars Jedi Training)
Epcot (9-9pm)
(Epcot: test track, soarin', mission space, 2 wish lounges, the seas with nemo-turtle talk, aquarium, IllumiNations @ night)

Sunday November1st
up early
check out of hotel
arrive at airport, fly home

Depart Sunday 11/1 @ 12:50pm Arrive LAX @ 3:10pm
Depart LAX @ 6:30pm Arrive Fresno @ 7:30pm
Limo brings us home

 

[kdzbear]

Your plans sound great! I like how you are taking it easy and just taking in the sites the first day. Do you have a game plan for the MNSSHP or would you like some advice of what not to miss? Have a fantastic trip!

 

[ahkeela]

Oh Yes! Advice for MNSSH! I hadn't even of thought of that! I have no idea what to expect where to go or what to do.
Thank you!
Debi

 

[maroo]

Oh no!

I did not realize you guys were going to get in so late. I guess the time change really messes that all up!

The only advice I have for you You would think my message would be SHORT if I only had that much advice........is take it slow. Only you know your kids and your family, but we pushed Lauren too hard that first day (we did MNSSHP) and we were literally in the HOSPITAL at the end of day 3 (she got a virus). I can't help but wonder what would have been different for her if we had just taken things a little slower.

MNSSHP - You can get in at 4:00 PM - even if your tickets say 7:00 PM. I would be there by 6 at the latest. That way you can get your bearings, eat, etc before the party starts. Pick up a schedule for MNSSHP (at Guest Services) when you are at the MK on Monday. Then you can know when the parade (don't miss) and Fireworks will be taking place. I would not concentrate as much on the rides as the special stuff...characters (show your button so you don't have to wait). And the DANCE parties are SOOOOOO much fun! Great character interaction - Lauren loved it!


Food - I would call the ADR line. It is late in the game and there are probably, honestly, just a few character meals that will even be available. They are ALL fun and you will have a blast!

You are staying at the AKL!!!! Woo Hoo! Awesome resort!

You just MUST eat at Boma. They have a GREAT breakfast buffet and dinner. YUM. Love their food.

your schedule looks great!!!

You are going to have so much fun.

Stay flexible...I am sure that doesn't make any sense after all that planning. But be ready to throw it out the window if something magical happens that takes you off your path.

Don't be afraid to ask the CM's for help in getting a reservation, etc. Show them your button.

Have a blast.

 

[kdzbear]

Ok, I hope I don’t make this too long for you:

Will you have a stroller or get a free rental at the park? If so, make sure in addition to your Guest Assistance Card (GAC) that you get a stroller as a wheelchair tag. This tag will help with rides as you will go in the wheelchair entrance for most rides.

First, your party tickets get you into the park at 4:00 PM even though the party does not start until 7:00 PM.

There are special characters out that are not always out so I will start with those. In Toon Town go to the County Fair store. It is the store diagonally across from Goofy’s Barnstormer Rollercoaster. The Fairies are in here as are the princesses with their princes. When we were there it was Prince Charming and Cinderella with Aurora and Prince Phillip. Just show your card to the attendant at the front of the line and they will take you around a back way. You may have to wait a few minutes, but not whatever the current wait time shows. The princes do not arrive until 7 PM.

Then there is a candy line that takes you from Toon Town to Tomorrowland. If it is not raining, you can take this and end up at Stitch’s dance party. I have read in other reports that they are handing out Star Wars toothbrushes by the DJ booth, but we missed this. Stitch is out in his 4 arms costume. Chip and Dale were also out too.

The Villain’s Mix and Mingles are on the castle stage at 7:45, 9:00, 10:05 and 11:15. I would try to hit one of the later shows.

Hallowishes the fireworks show is at 9:30 and you want to be in front of the castle as they put lots of cool shapes via special lights on the castle that match the music selections.

There is one parade at 8:15 and one at 10:30. Be at least 15 minutes early or you will miss the headless horseman. Take lots of pictures of the pirate on the pirates float at the top. Often times it is the real Johnny Deep and only the manager at the pirates of the Caribbean would be able to tell you for sure. The handicapped seating is across from the Hall of Presidents.

You can do lots of your trick or treating towards the end of the party when it is less crowded and you will get tons of candy. The adults can trick or treat too!

You should be able to meet Abu and Genie over in Adventureland. There are several other characters there too. They sometimes include Baloo, Rafiki, and Timon.

There are special picture ops in front of the Haunted Mansion and diagonally from It’s a Small World is a Cinderella’s carriage photo op.

Pooh and Eeyore alternate with Tigger and Piglet by Pooh’s Playground. Leave that area and walk back towards Toon Town and you will see the 7 Dwarves.

There is another dance party with the Fab 5 over in Ariel’s Grotto area. The characters are really good about mingling with all of the kids and stopping for photo ops.

There are special stores that carry merchandise such as pins and t-shirts that are only available at the party.

Then ride rides between walking from one area to another. Let me know if I provided too much information or if I can answer any additional questions.

Have fun and take lots of pictures of all of the decorations. I wish I had taken more! My trip report has lots of pictures from the party. There is also a map of the party at: http://www.wdwinfo.com/holidays/halloween.htm

 

[yinyanggirls]

Wow, after a long delay, your trip dates came up fast! Your schedule looks pretty good to me. What a bummer that the first travel day takes ALL day. Being in AZ I guess I should prepare myself for something similar.
I have never heard of Azaria's syndrome before (I mean the one that she's diagnosed with, not that it's named after her) LOL. Although we do joke that Phoebe's is Phoebe's syndrome since she's undiagnosed.
I look forward to hearing about your trip!