There’s just something magical about Disney and everything it encompasses, including the parks and princesses. On August 25, 2023, Walt Disney World hosted a Royal Ball and invited more than 50 Make-A-Wish kids and their families to celebrate with them. One of the attendees, Mikayla, a 17-year-old from Florida, performed on the big day marking the 150,000th Disney wish granted.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants life-changing wishes for children living with serious illnesses. The foundation has a long history of working with Disney. In fact, Disney granted the first wish ever.
Mikayla’s wish was to sing at a Disney event. She performed a medley of Disney hits at the ball including "Beauty and the Beast" and "Almost There" from The Princess and the Frog. The teen was diagnosed with cancer three years ago.
She was pumped to attend the ball. "Every little girl dreams of going to a royal ball," she mused ahead of the big day. "As a performer, having the opportunity to sing at the ball is more than I could have ever imagined," she added.
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The day began with red carpet arrivals of the guests. Attendees then had a special breakfast with Frozen's Ana and Elsa before getting their royal make-overs. Mickey, Minnie, and all the princesses made sure to attend the ball as well.
Mikayla is a big fan of Elsa. "Like her, I too have a younger sister, Makenna, I am extremely close to; she's my best friend,” she explained. “I also admire Elsa's strength in being confident in who she is and wanting to protect others.”
The president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, Leslie Motter, was so excited for the big day. "For more than 40 years, Disney has been providing hope to wish kids and their families when they need it most,” she gushed. "It’s a testament to the passion and commitment to the Make-A-Wish mission that Disney continues to find new and creative ways to deliver truly life-changing experiences for wish kids and their families.”
"I can’t wait to see the smiles on the faces of these wish kids, who have had to endure so many challenges, as their wishes come true," she said. "It will be truly life-changing for everyone involved."
Mikayla is stoked to be entering her senior year of high school. She plans to finish strong. She has big plans for the future.
"After that, I plan to go to college and hopefully see what doors in music open," she mused. "I am so thankful to be healthy, and look forward to whatever the future holds!"
