Florida Girl Receives Landmark 170,000th Disney Wish at 70th Anniversary!
A 13-year-old girl named Madison receives the 170,000th Disney wish, touring Disneyland and meeting Imagineers, marking a special milestone for Make-A-Wish.
Florida Girl Receives Landmark 170,000th Disney Wish at 70th Anniversary!
The magic of Disney found a thrilling embodiment recently when 13-year-old Madison, who has been bravely battling leukemia, received the momentous honor of having her wish granted as the 170,000th Disney wish. This heartwarming milestone coincided beautifully with the 70th anniversary of Disneyland, a place that has sparked joy in millions. According to PR Newswire, Madison wished to dive deep into the magic of Disney theme parks with the help of Imagineers, and on July 17, 2025, that wish came true.
As her wish unfolded, Madison enjoyed an exciting VIP tour of the Walt Disney Imagineering campus. Highlights included a panel discussion focused on the iconic Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, coupled with captivating insights from Imagineers regarding the cutting-edge technology behind many beloved rides. This was all part of an experience filled with wonder as Madison visited Disneyland Resort for the very first time.
A Day to Remember
At Disneyland, the fervor of Madison’s journey continued as she explored attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Notably, she was greeted by Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum and Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro, who aimed to sprinkle even more magic on her special day. Together with Imagineers, she rode Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, truly immersing herself in the Disney experience.
In a heartfelt conclusion to her adventure, Madison was celebrated during The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade, where she felt the warmth of the community’s applause. One final touch was a tour of Walt Disney’s very own apartment, where she received a signed autograph book from Imagineers, a keepsake that promises to hold a special place in her heart.
Disney’s Commitment to Hope
This remarkable wish is just one of many woven into Disney’s ongoing partnership with Make-A-Wish, which has flourished for nearly 45 years. As noted by Disney Impact, the collaboration has allowed Disney to become the world’s largest wish granter, bringing hope and inspiration to children who face critical health challenges.
Disney WishMakers play a vital role in this mission, granting life-changing wishes that can include everything from magical vacations and cruises to unforgettable meet-and-greets with talent and sports figures. This year, in a bid to shine even brighter, Disney is set to unveil the first-ever Disney Week of Wishes, aiming to expand the celebration beyond the customary World Wish Day. Over 170 special wishes are expected to be granted around the globe during this exciting event.
A Lasting Legacy
Since the inception of this heartwarming initiative in 1981, Disney has granted an impressive total of 165,000 wishes. In the U.S. alone, approximately 16,000 wishes are granted each year, with half of those being a delightful Disney wish. At recent events like Walt Disney World’s Once Upon a Wish Party, around 50 princess wishes were fulfilled, further exemplifying the company’s commitment to spreading joy and happiness among children facing difficult times.
Yes, Disney and Make-A-Wish continue to illustrate a beautiful truth: together, they do a great deal more than just create dreams; they inspire hope and bring real happiness to those who need it most. With each wish granted, they reaffirm the belief that there truly is something to be said for enchanting moments that celebrate life and love.