Treatments, tests and surgeries have been regular occurrences in Zion’s life since he was born.
Diagnosed with kidney disease, Zion started dialysis treatment at just 6 weeks old.
“His first four months of life were in the hospital,” said Zion’s mom, Annette.
Zion continued daily dialysis for more than two years as doctors monitored his progress. When doctors put Zion on a list for a kidney transplant, his family applied for a wish.
“We weren’t sure what would happen with Zion, and we knew that a kidney transplant would be a long medical process, so we thought we could do something to give him something positive to focus on,” said Annette.
When Zion was told he would receive a wish, he picked DisneylandÒ because he wanted to meet all the characters who kept him company during his treatments.
"As a parent, it can be hard because he’s a kid and doesn’t really understand what is going on, but he shows up every day with a positive attitude even though he has to go through all of this,” said Annette. “He has a ‘Disney’ personality — funny, kind and resilient.”
Zion’s wish gave him and his family the sense of normalcy they needed after years of treatments, doctors and surgeries.
“Even months later, he still talks about his wish,” said Annette. “He tells everyone, even when we are at the gym.”
Zion’s best memories from his trip include seeing his favorite Disney characters, Chip ‘n’ Dale, the Dumbo ride and experiencing the ocean for the first time.
“He can’t go into public pools because of his kidney, but he can go into the ocean. It was fun to see him play and swim around for the first time,” said Annette.
Zion, now 4, attends preschool and plays soccer. Zion’s wish gave him long-lasting memories of new experiences he will never forget.
“It's hard for these little guys, and I think it's the wish that just gives this glimmer of hope,” said Annette.
