Twenty eight families met at DFW International Airport Wednesday for a charter flight to Disney World. Make-A-Wish families had come from as far away as Midland and El Paso.
"I've never been on a plane before, so I'm excited," one boy from Abilene said.
"This is a good experience," his dad said. "This is our first time on a plane, first time going to Disney. It's amazing, man, it's amazing."
American Airlines donated miles for the families could attend. They are flying into Orlando International Airport and will begin a six day visit to Disney World with a reception Wednesday evening at "Give Kids the World Village" in nearby Kissimmee.
"You get to have the time of your life," says Make-A-Wish North Texas Chief Executive Kim Elenez. "Now's the time to forget about all the struggles and the difficult medical journey. Just be a kid, and you get to go to Disney."
Elenez says the trip also lets parents focus on bringing their kids joy.
"Mom and dad really get the chance to take a step back and say, 'We're not going to worry about insurance. We're not going to worry about the trials we're going through right now," she says.
"I want to go eat and play and ride the rides," a boy from Fort Worth said.
"I want to see the princesses," a girl said.
American Airlines employees greeted families at the gate. A DJ played music and introduced each family as a crowd cheered. Make-A-Wish also had face-painting and balloons.
Parents said they were glad to see their kids smiling.
"The reaction is what I live for. I like that," one mom said.
"It's been a bit overwhelming but exciting," another said.
Make-A-Wish says 75% of wishes involve travel, so a partner like American can help them follow through. The non-profit says it needs almost three billion airline miles to fulfill wishes.
More information is available at www.wishmaker.org.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube