WASHINGTON, D.C. — A 7-year-old from La Plata, Maryland, battling leukemia, is set to have her Make-A-Wish dream fulfilled with a trip to Walt Disney World in June 2025. Senna and her family were honored as the Disney Family of the Parade at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on April 12, marking a joyful milestone in her journey. The event, held along Constitution Avenue NW, featured Disney characters including Princess Ariel, Prince Eric, Mickey Mouse, and Minnie Mouse, adding a magical touch to the celebration.
Senna’s wish announcement was a highlight of the parade, which drew thousands to celebrate spring and the region’s iconic cherry blossoms. “Although the memories of Senna’s cancer treatment journey still leave our hearts feeling tender, Senna’s wish to go to Walt Disney World being granted helps to ease past pains,” said Senna’s mother. “We cannot wait to create happy memories there.” The family’s moment in the spotlight underscored the hope and joy that Disney wishes bring to children facing critical illnesses.
Disney’s partnership with Make-A-Wish, spanning 45 years, has resulted in over 165,000 wishes granted globally, with Disney World alone facilitating 8,000 wishes in 2024. “We can’t wait to welcome Senna for her wish trip later this year,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “With 8,000 wishes granted last year alone, Disney World continues to be a place where Make-A-Wish families can make happy memories together.” On average, a Disney wish is granted every hour, making Disney the largest wish-granter for the organization.
Senna’s upcoming trip aligns with Disney’s ongoing commitment to creating transformative experiences for wish families. Later in April, Disney World will host the Once Upon A Wish Party during its Week of Wishes from April 28 to May 2. The event, exclusive to Make-A-Wish families, will grant approximately 50 Disney Princess wishes. Over two days, wish children will immerse themselves in a storybook adventure, culminating in a royal ball where they are crowned Disney royalty. These moments aim to build hope and deliver lasting memories, reflecting the emotional impact of wishes on families navigating medical challenges.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival, running from March 20 to April 13, 2025, commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C., symbolizing friendship between the U.S. and Japan. The parade, a signature event, featured colorful floats, marching bands, and Disney characters, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse serving as grand marshals for the third year and Ariel making her debut. For Senna, the parade was a public celebration of her resilience and a prelude to her Disney adventure.
Disney’s collaboration with Make-A-Wish began with the first official wish granted at Disneyland in 1980. Today, employees across the company, known as WishMakers, contribute to granting wishes worldwide. Those interested in supporting the effort can learn more at wish.org/Disney. Senna’s story, like thousands of others, highlights the power of these wishes to foster joy and connection for families during difficult times.
